Pokémon GO has launched the Explorer Gadget, a new feature for players level 20 and above that allows automatic catching of Pokémon and spinning of PokéStops even when the app is not open. The feature uses only Poké Balls and has a daily limit based on the player’s level; the Explorer Gadget icon appears in the map view or the Key Items section of the Item Bag, according to the official Pokémon GO team.

Monthly Event: Clefairy and Moonlit Pokémon

From September 23 to 27, 2026, Pokémon GO will host a special event titled ‘Dance Under the Moon with Clefairy.’ During this period, Clefairy will appear in large numbers in the wild at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. daily in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Also, other Pokémon such as Jigglypuff, Teddiursa, Skitty, Munna, and Bunnelby will also appear in large numbers at 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m., according to the Pokémon GO team.

The event includes two consecutive Timed Research tasks; the first Timed Research offers rewards such as 1,000 XP, 1,000 Stardust, and encounters with Teddiursa, Skitty, Lunatone, and Clefairy with a Special Background. The second Timed Research provides similar rewards and must be completed within three days of receiving it; the first Timed Research expires on September 29, 2026, according to the Pokémon GO team.

Promotional Codes and Exclusive Rewards

Various promotional codes and special research tasks are currently available in Pokémon GO and other Pokémon titles. These include a Mewtwo with 100% IVs and a special background, a limited-time MLB 2026 avatar shirt (available until September 30, 2026), and a LEGO-themed investigation to reveal a LEGO hat and berries. Players can also receive a FENDI x FRGMT hoodie and a pack of 10 Poké Balls through specific codes, according to Nintenderos.

In Pokémon Champions, a code (CHAMP10N) provides a specially prepared Machamp for competitive play, with a firm nature and a Gloria Ball, while Additional codes and rewards are available through the official Pokémon GO Web Store, according to PlayCentral.

Return of the Times Square Mewtu and Community Response

Scopely Explore confirmed that the exclusive Mewtu with the Times Square background from the 10th-anniversary event in New York will be available again in the future. The original event, held on July 9, 2026, featured a synchronized raid against Mega-Mewtu Y with over 1,500 participants, but the event also included digital billboards in Times Square reacting to in-game actions, creating a unique in-game and real-world experience, according to PlayCentral.

Despite the event’s success, the exclusive Mewtu with the Times Square background was limited to those who attended, leading to community criticism — However, the confirmation of its return has been welcomed by many fans, according to PlayCentral.

In addition, Pokémon GO’s August 2026 GO Pass will automatically be awarded on August 4, 2026, at 10:00 KST and will expire on September 10, 2026, at 10:00 KST. Players can also purchase the premium version, GO Pass Deluxe, for $7.99 or a combination package for $9.99 that includes 10 ranks, according to the Pokémon GO Web Store.