Pokémon GO's Explorer Gadget is available to Trainers Level 20 and above. It attempts catches and spins PokéStops automatically as players move through the real world. The update also brings interface tweaks and a Power Spot change, and the "Twilight Wishes" event runs from November 24 to November 30, 2026.
Pokémon GO's Explorer Gadget is a built-in feature that attempts to catch Pokémon by automatically throwing Poké Balls. It also collects items by spinning PokéStops while Trainers traverse the real world. The gadget is available for Trainers Level 20 and above. It can be activated by tapping its icon in the top right of the map view or in the Key Items section of the Item Bag.
While Trainers are actively playing with the Explorer Gadget on, a pink Poké Ball icon appears over Pokémon or PokéStops it is attempting to catch or spin. Trainers can tap them to attempt the catch or spin themselves.
Other changes in the update
The update adds a dedicated Appraise button above the Additional Options on a Pokémon's summary page. It also gives Trainers an improved catch summary with updated visuals that make rewards and catch bonuses clearer. Visual refreshes include updated PokéStop color saturation and updated encounter ring indicators for wild Pokémon attracted by Lure Modules or encountered on Routes. Updated visual effects also appear around Pokémon attracted by the Mystery Box or Coin Bag.
Visiting a Power Spot, or placing a Pokémon at one after winning a Max Battle, will no longer trigger special wild encounters. The change is intended to improve consistency for wild encounters.
Twilight Wishes event
The Pokémon GO "Twilight Wishes" event runs from Tuesday, November 24, at 10:00 a.m. to Monday, November 30, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. local time. During the event there is an increased chance to encounter Shiny Staryu and Shiny Elgyem.
On the event GO Pass, Tier 1 (Rank 1) unlocks an increased chance to get Lucky Pokémon in trades and to become Lucky Friends. Tier 2 (Rank 10) unlocks 2× Stardust for catching Pokémon, and GO Pass Deluxe gives 3× Stardust for catching Pokémon.
