Wish Pokémon GO would simply play itself nearby as you moved with tasks? You are not alone. But it turns out that now it is even starting to become a real feature.

Another update to Pokémon GO has been generating hype, as well as some controversy, because data miners discovered that there might be a new in-game item that allows players to catch Pokémon automatically.

An Interactive Pokémon GO Experience: Play Hands-Free

The core Pokémon GO experience remains centered on active exploration and catching Pokémon in the real world.

Source: Gamespot Pokémon GO Augmented Reality (AR) Catching Interface

As per the discovery of PokeMiners, the new feature, which is now known as the Explorer Gadget, might enable players to automatically catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops even when the app is not actively running.

Pokémon GO is currently designed as an active game. You walk, you tap, and you throw Poke Balls. It is a loop that keeps millions of people occupied since the game first released way back in 2016. However, this new feature could change things. 

The feature could literally operate in the background, catching Pokémon and items on your commute, at work, or simply living your life, instead of being on your phone all the time. In fairness, auto-catching was not an entirely new feature of the Pokémon GO ecosystem. 

Players have been automating aspects of the game with external accessories such as the Pokémon GO Plus+. The devices are able to capture Pokémon and spin PokéStops without having to touch the screens continuously. Unlike the external devices, all these would be incorporated into the game.

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How the Explorer Gadget Might Work

A collection of various Pokémon from different generations, including Pikachu, Sprigatito, and Porygon, standing in a flowery field.

Source: Multi-Generation Pokémon Collection Display

According to what we have been able to discover, the Explorer Gadget might serve as a restricted-use product. It is initially described as something that could be activated only once a day and then run on a timer.

Throughout the period, it would automatically throw Poke balls, catch Pokémon nearby, spin PokéStops to make sure they get some items, and so on even when the app is not open. Because these are mere whispers in the community, the final product could be different.

Whenever Pokémon GO presents something so powerful, there is always the question of the cost. No fixed prices have been confirmed but the speculations are already going wild. On the one hand, some players assume that it might be connected with a premium subscription, and, on the other hand, some believe that it may be a consumable or a part of special event bundles. 

In case the feature is too costly or is strongly limited, it might seem like a pay-to-win feature. However, at somewhat affordable cost or free, it would make the experience of casual players significantly better.

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A Potential Change in the Way People Play Pokémon GO

If released, this feature may change the way Pokémon GO is played. The game has been promoting movement and active participation. It is a reason why it was such a cultural phenomenon, walking around and getting people outside to explore their environment.

For busy players, this update could be massive. However, not everyone is in support of the Explorer Gadget. These kinds of players have pointed out their excitement about the feature and how it could help them advance in the game.

Certain players fear that some core gameplay might be automated and that this would strip Pokémon GO of its unique qualities. When the game is self-playing, what will the player have to do anyway? 

Which side of the fence do you sit? The best quality-of-life update or an unnecessary update? Let us know what you think.