Pokémon Go’s Recent Storage Update Suggests a Major Content Drops Set to Hit the Game Soon

SUMMARY

• Pokémon Go has just increased storage limits, offering 9,300 Pokémon and 8,300 item slots. But why?
• The update's surprise timing hints at upcoming in-game events or content, possibly including new Pokémon or forms.
• Players speculate that the storage increase is tied to Niantic's plans for a significant content drop in 2025.

As 2024 wraps up, Pokémon Go has surprised players with an increase in storage caps, allowing trainers to hoard more items and Pokémon than ever before. Starting December 26, 2024, players can now expand their Pokémon storage to 9,300 and item capacity to 8,300, both increased by 500 slots.

More space for everyone! But why? | Image Credit: Niantic.

While players are celebrating this much-requested change, its timing has sparked speculation. With no major events currently announced, many believe the update is a prelude to significant content drops in the near future. Could Niantic be preparing for something massive in 2025?

Pokémon Go just dropped a good update no one expected

Is this just a gesture of goodwill or is something coming? | Image Credit: Niantic.

Niantic announced on December 26 that Pokémon and item storage limits had been increased. This has been a welcome addition for long-time players who had been struggling with overcrowded inventories. Each upgrade tier costs 200 PokéCoins, which players can earn in-game or purchase with real money.

This change has been particularly welcomed by competitive players, shiny hunters, and those participating in frequent Community Days or special events. Do note though that these storage upgrades come with a hefty price tag for those looking to max out both caps. It is over $400 worth of coins in total.

The timing of the storage update has raised eyebrows. Storage increases like this usually coincide with large-scale events so that players can prepare for new Pokémon or exclusive rewards. This time, however, the update has arrived without any prior news, leaving fans puzzled. Maybe Niantic is capable of making good decisions.

Somebig is coming

Some believe the update is a strategic move to encourage spending during the holiday season. Others see it as a sign of impending game content that will require the additional storage, such as an influx of new Pokémon or items in 2025. We’ll have to wait and see what it actually means.

What is Niantic up to with these updates?

It’s not like Niantic to do things like this. | Image Credit: Niantic

The storage update aligns with other recent changes, such as quality-of-life improvements and seasonal events. However, players remain curious about Niantic’s plans for 2025. The upcoming Dual Destiny Season, focusing on Unova Pokémon, and hints at tie-in events for Pokémon Legends Z-A, could introduce exciting challenges that make full use of the expanded storage.

Is it bad if my first thought is "what are they up to?" And the fact it's probably nothing good

Whether the update signals a shift in game design or is simply a holiday gesture, it’s clear that Pokémon Go has no plans to slow down. While the new limits are a welcome relief, they also put a light on Pokémon Go‘s monetization model. Players start with a modest 300 slots for both Pokémon and items, requiring consistent spending or grinding to expand.

This design has often been a topic of discussion among players about the balance between gameplay accessibility and financial investment. Dedicated players often justify the cost, viewing the storage upgrades as essential for enjoying events, completing research tasks, and collecting rare Pokémon.

With the recent Rediscover Kanto getting mixed reactions from players due to its over-reliance on Generation 1 Pokémon, fans hope for more diverse spawns and innovative features. Upcoming events and new regional Pokémon could be a needed change from nostalgia-driven content toward broader franchise representation.

What do you think this latest change means? Let us know in the comments!

Written by Daniel Royte

Articles Published: 644

Daniel is a gamer through and through with a passion for gaming in his veins. His current adventures have taken him into the world of Elden Ring, Wuthering Waves, and Genshin Impact, amongst others.