What is the app "Pokemon Smile" designed to motivate kids to do?

Pokémon Smile is designed to motivate kids to brush their teeth. The free mobile app turns brushing into a Pokémon-themed augmented-reality game, using a phone or tablet camera to recognize the player’s face and brushing activity.

During a session, bacteria appear to hold Pokémon captive inside the player’s mouth. Brushing removes the bacteria and gives the player a chance to catch the rescued Pokémon. The app also awards items such as hats and photo stickers, adding a collection element to an everyday hygiene routine.

The Pokémon Company released Pokémon Smile for iOS and Android on June 17, 2020. It was developed jointly with LITALICO, a Japanese educational company that had previously created tooth-brushing games. The app was intentionally made free and did not include in-app purchases, reflecting its educational purpose.

Brushing sessions can be set for one to three minutes, and the app can send up to three reminders per day. Pokémon Smile is meant to encourage a habit; it does not replace parents, dentists, fluoride toothpaste, or proper brushing instruction.