Pokémon GO may finally be getting a FREE built-in auto-catcher, but early testing suggests it could be far more limited than existing GO Plus devices.
In this video, we take a look at the newly discovered Explorer Gadget, a feature that appears to be entering live testing on select Pokémon GO accounts. The Explorer Gadget was originally found through datamining earlier this year, where it was described as an in-game item capable of automatically catching Pokémon and spinning PokéStops without requiring a separate physical accessory.
Now, players have started reporting that the feature is appearing in-game, giving us our first real look at how it actually works.
According to early reports, the Explorer Gadget functions similarly to devices such as the Pokémon GO Plus, GO Plus+, Brook Auto Catch devices, and other Bluetooth auto-catchers. However, unlike traditional auto-catchers, the Explorer Gadget appears to have strict daily usage limits.
Some players are reporting a daily limit of 35 automatic catches and PokéStop spins, while others are seeing limits as high as 80. At the time of recording, it is unclear why these limits differ between accounts. One theory is that the higher limit may be connected to the Monthly Deluxe Pass, but this has not been officially confirmed by Scopely.
What we currently know about the Explorer Gadget:
• Works directly inside Pokémon GO with no separate hardware required.
• Automatically catches Pokémon.
• Automatically spins PokéStops.
• Appears to use regular Poké Balls only.
• Can be activated once per day.
• Currently being tested on a limited number of accounts.
• Different accounts appear to have different daily limits.
• Some users report limits of 35 actions per day.
• Other users report limits of 80 actions per day.
• A cooldown appears to exist between automatic catches.
• Availability may currently be limited to certain regions, time zones, or selected test accounts.
While a free built-in auto-catcher sounds exciting, many trainers are questioning whether the feature can realistically compete with existing auto-catchers. Dedicated Pokémon GO players often use devices that can catch hundreds or even thousands of Pokémon throughout a day of gameplay. If the Explorer Gadget launches with limits as low as 35 to 80 catches per day, it may be aimed more at casual players rather than hardcore grinders.
It is important to remember that this feature is still being tested. Everything shown in this video is based on early reports and currently available information. Features, limits, cooldowns, functionality, and availability could all change before a global release.
Could this be the future of auto-catching in Pokémon GO? Or will trainers continue using dedicated devices like the GO Plus and GO Plus+ for serious grinding?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Would you use the Explorer Gadget if it launched exactly as it is today, or do the current limits make it a dealbreaker?
If you enjoyed this video, be sure to subscribe for the latest Pokémon GO news, leaks, events, raid guides, shiny releases, GO Fest updates, Community Day coverage, Team GO Rocket events, and everything happening in Pokémon GO.
#PokemonGO #ExplorerGadget #PokemonGOLeaks #PokemonGONews #PokemonGOPlus #AutoCatcher #GOPlusPlus #PokemonGOUpdate #PokemonGO2026 #Scopely
9 Comments
Its set two ur lev
Like and Subscribe for more Pokemon GO content 💜
Most likely it will scale with you level like you get storage and item bag space! They could make this one free (red) and add plus (blue) and premium (yellow) for a monthly fee with catches and spins to be expandable through the store using pokécoins!
Only useful when you aren't playing
Its terribly slow
Its useful if you dont have an auto catcher and Arent planning to buy one
As someone who can’t afford yet an auto-catcher, I say that this yes is a win-win. The experience of it alone makes me want to get it, just today I got a shiny with the auto-catcher. 100% love this feature and hope it becomes permanent, especially for those who are driving and leaving it on (W)
35!!! I’m getting 20
I mean if its free its mostly for players who dont have an auto catcher, no? And if you dont have an auto catcher this is better than no auto catcher