The augmented-reality mobile game Pokémon Go launched in 2016.
Developed and published by Niantic in partnership with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company, Pokémon Go uses GPS and mobile device cameras to place Pokémon in real-world locations. It was released for iOS and Android devices, beginning in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States on July 6, 2016.
The game expanded across the world throughout the rest of 2016. Its location-based design encouraged players to walk to find Pokémon, visit PokéStops, and battle at Gyms. The launch became one of the most visible mainstream uses of augmented reality technology.
Pokémon Go was announced in 2015, which is a common source of confusion. The announcement and field testing came before the public launch. Its first-generation roster initially included approximately 150 Pokémon, rather than every species available in the wider franchise.