How to download Pokémon Go on Android in the UK: Get Pikachu with your phone today

Pokémon Go has been available in the US for what seems like ages, but today it’s finally been rolled out to the UK. That means wannabe trainers in the UK can now experience the magic of Pokémon Go, and discover for themselves why it’s already one of the most popular apps in the world.

If you grew up in the nineties, Ash and Pikachu form a big part of your childhood memories – along with that Moltres you really shouldn’t have traded. Back to 2016, and Pokémon has returned in the form of Pokémon Go, a brand-new app that uses location services and augmented-reality (AR) technology to bring the Pokémon universe to your Android phone or iPhone.

Now that Pokémon Go is officially out in the UK, you don’t need to bother with APK files or manual updates. To get Pokémon Go on your Android phone, simply search for it on the Google Play store or jump to it directly via this link. After that, it’s just a matter of downloading and installing the app as you would any other. Although that marks the end of the installation process, it’s only the beginning of your long journey to becoming a Pokémon master. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a range of tips and tricks to help you get up to speed – and we’ll even show you how to snag a Pikachu.

NOTE: If like many of us, you’ve jumped the gun and already downloaded the app via the APK method below, swapping over is pretty simple. Just delete the APK file and redownload the app from the Google Play store like normal. Once you log in with your previous account details, your inventory and Pokémon will be restored.

How to get Pokémon Go on Android before it’s out where you live

1. If the Pokémon Go app isn’t currently available from your Google Play store, you’ll have to look elsewhere to download it. In fact, you can simply download the app itself from here: https://apkpure.com/Pokémon-go/com.nianticlabs.Pokémongo. While the Pokémon Go APK is apparently available on several different websites, there have been reports of malware being disguised as Pokémon Go. For that reason, it’s probably best to stick to using the link above.
2. It’s much quicker and easier to download the file to your phone directly, but you can also download it to your PC or Mac, and then drag it over to your Android phone.
3. Once the Pokémon Go APK is downloaded, you’ll need to tinker with some security settings to download it. Go to Settings | Security and then make sure the “Installation of apps from unknown sources” is checked.
4. After that’s done, head over to your Downloads folder, and tap on the Pokémon Go APK to begin installation. Professor Willow – and significantly less battery life – awaits.