Pokémon GO introduces Powered-Up PokéStops

Niantic has announced the introduction of the Powered-Up PokéStops in Pokémon GO, a feature that will make new use of the AR Mapping tasks introduced last year. Soon, players will be able to work with fellow Trainers to complete AR Mapping tasks and create new AR experiences for Trainers worldwide, simply by using their smart device to scan real-world PokéStop locations.

PokéStops and Gyms can be powered-up for a limited period of time by completing AR Mapping tasks. Powered-Up PokéStops will look different on the map, and any Trainer who spins one will earn extra rewards. As more Trainers level 20 and above perform AR scans of a PokéStop, the rewards for spinning it will increase, and the PokéStop will be powered up for a longer period of time. Powered-Up PokéStops will have three visually distinct levels, and they'll level up as more Trainers work together to scan the PokéStop. The scanning requirements to achieve each level are as follows.

• Level 1: 5 scans
• Level 2: 10 scans
• Level 3: 25 scans

To scan a PokéStop, go to the PokéStop or Gym’s details page and tap the three dots in the upper right. Trainers must be level 20 or above to complete AR Mapping tasks.

1. Tap SCAN POKÉSTOP.
2. Opt in to the feature via the on-screen prompts if it's the first time performing a scan.
3. Tap the record button to start scanning. Keep the subject within the frame, and slowly walk around the subject if possible.
4. Tap Upload Later or Upload Now to upload the scan.

Supported Devices

• iOS: PokéStop Scanning is available on iPhone 6s and newer devices running iOS 11+.
• Android: PokéStop Scanning is available on devices running Android 7.0+ and can support Google Play Services for AR. Supported devices must install Google Play Services for AR from the Google Play Store. A list of supported devices can be found here.

PokéStop Scanning is unavailable for Trainers with child accounts.

For more guidelines on how to scan PokéStop, please visit this help center article on Niantic's support website.