Pokemon Go Auto Catcher: Explorer Gadget Guide
To use the Explorer Gadget auto catcher in Pokémon Go, pair it with your phone via Bluetooth, then enable auto-catch and auto-spin in the Pokémon Go Plus settings. Once connected, the device will automatically throw Poké Balls at nearby Pokémon and spin Poké Stops when you press its button, without needing to look at your screen.
What Is the Explorer Gadget?
The Explorer Gadget is an official Pokémon Go accessory that functions as a Poké Ball Plus-style device, also working with Pokémon Sleep. It connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and lets you catch Pokémon and collect items from Poké Stops automatically, even when the app is running in the background. Unlike the standard Poké Ball Plus, it has a clip and a wristband, making it easier to wear while walking or running.
How Auto-Catching Works
When the Explorer Gadget is connected, it uses your phone’s GPS to detect nearby Pokémon and Poké Stops. The device vibrates and lights up when something is found. Pressing the button once will attempt to catch the Pokémon using a regular Poké Ball (or an Ultra Ball if you’ve set that in the app). Pressing twice will spin a Poké Stop or Gym. If you enable “Auto-Catch� in the settings, the device will do this automatically without any button presses, but it will only use standard Poké Balls and won’t use berries.
Step-by-Step Setup
- Charge the Explorer Gadget fully using the included USB cable.
- On your phone, open Pokémon Go and go to Settings → Pokémon Go Plus.
- Tap “Pair New Device� and select “Explorer Gadget� from the list.
- Press the button on the device to confirm pairing.
- Once connected, you’ll see the device icon in the top-left corner of the map.
- In the same settings menu, toggle “Auto-Catch� and “Auto-Spin� to your preference.
Choosing the Right Settings
You have three main modes: manual, semi-auto, and full auto. In manual mode, you press the button for each catch or spin. Semi-auto lets you press once for Pokémon and twice for stops, but you still need to interact. Full auto (with both toggles on) does everything for you. For most players, full auto is best when you’re walking in a busy area and want to collect items without stopping. However, note that auto-catch uses only regular Poké Balls, so if you’re low on those, you’ll run out quickly.
Common Problems and Fixes
- Device not connecting: Turn off Bluetooth, then turn it back on, and restart the Pokémon Go app.
- Connection drops frequently: Keep the device within 10 meters of your phone, and close other Bluetooth apps.
- Auto-catch not working: Make sure you have enough Poké Balls in your inventory, and check that the toggle is actually on in the settings.
- Battery drains fast: The device has a battery life of about 20 hours, but if it’s shorter, check for firmware updates via the Pokémon Go app.
Comparing to Other Auto Catchers
The Explorer Gadget is similar to the Poké Ball Plus but adds a clip and a sleep-tracking feature. It also works with Pokémon Sleep, which the original Poké Ball Plus does not. Compared to third-party devices like the Go-tcha, the Explorer Gadget is official, so it’s less likely to be banned by Niantic. However, it lacks the Go-tcha’s always-on auto-catch without needing to press a button—though you can set it to auto, you still need to press the button once to activate the session.
Cost and Where to Buy
The Explorer Gadget retails for around $50, though prices vary by region and availability. It’s sold at major electronics stores and online retailers. When buying, check that it’s the official product and not a counterfeit, as fakes often have poor build quality and unreliable Bluetooth.
Safety and Fair Play
Using an auto catcher is allowed under Niantic’s terms, as long as you don’t use modified apps or automated bots. The device is designed to be used while walking, so you should still pay attention to your surroundings. Do not use it while driving, as it can distract you. Also, be aware that the device will vibrate and light up, which might draw attention in quiet places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Explorer Gadget work with Pokémon Sleep?
Yes, it does. You can pair it with the Pokémon Sleep app to track your sleep, and it will also count steps. However, you can only be connected to one app at a time, so you’ll need to switch between Pokémon Go and Pokémon Sleep.
Can I use it while my phone is locked?
Yes, the Explorer Gadget works with the screen off, as long as the Pokémon Go app is running in the background. The phone’s GPS and Bluetooth must stay active.
How many Pokémon can it catch automatically?
There’s no limit on the number of catches, but it can only attempt one catch at a time. If multiple Pokémon are nearby, it will cycle through them. It will stop if you run out of Poké Balls or if the Pokémon flees.
Does it use Great Balls or Ultra Balls?
In auto mode, it only uses regular Poké Balls. In manual mode, you can choose to use Great or Ultra Balls by setting that in the Pokémon Go Plus settings, but that setting applies only when you press the button manually.
Why is my catch rate so low?
The auto catcher uses a standard Poké Ball with no curve bonus, and it doesn’t use berries. So the catch rate is lower than manual catching. To improve, you can switch to manual mode and use better balls or berries.
Can I use two devices at once?
No, you can only connect one Explorer Gadget to a single Pokémon Go account at a time. You cannot connect two auto catchers simultaneously.
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