Pokémon GO aims to integrate the real world into the game even more – and you should help

In Pokémon GO, two features are soon to help integrate the real world more into the game. Trainers are expected to assist in implementing one of the ideas.

Buddies become more real: As announced by Niantic, they have continued to work on the AR features in Pokémon GO. This especially concerns your buddy Pokémon: When you take a snapshot of your buddy, your camera captures the Pokémon using augmented reality as if it were in the real world.

So far, the animated monster remains largely unaffected by real objects. This should change: Through “Reality Blending,” your buddies should be able to disappear behind objects. For instance, a Bulbasaur could hide behind a tree, or you might suddenly find a Squirtle behind your refrigerator. It should look something like this:

The new feature will initially be tested on a few devices. A small random group of trainers will be selected for this purpose. This is currently only possible on Android devices: Samsung Galaxy S9, Samsung Galaxy S10, Google Pixel 3, and Google Pixel 4.

Trainers are to scan PokéStops

This is the second AR feature: In addition to improved buddies, developers are currently working on a 3D map for PokéStops and Gyms. These should also apparently be integrated into AR.

To this end, Niantic is launching a feature called “PokéStop Scan,” which level-40 players are supposed to receive in June before more trainers gain access. A similar process is in place for submitting PokéStops. Players will be expected to make videos of PokéStops and Gyms from as many angles as possible.

This way, Niantic can create a 3D map of Gyms and Stops. Personal data will not be collected, and faces or license plates will automatically be blurred out.

With the new features, they aim to create more “exciting opportunities to interact with the world,” according to the developers.

Whether there will be any form of reward for participation remains open for now. However, soon players will be able to secure the legendary Pokémon Reshiram in raids. And that should be quite worthwhile.