Pokémon GO Explorer Gadget — the Built-In Auto-Catcher
The Explorer Gadget is Pokémon GO's new in-game auto-catch feature — essentially a virtual GO Plus that spins PokéStops and throws at wild Pokémon automatically, no hardware accessory needed.
What it does
- 1Auto-catches Pokémon
The gadget throws at nearby wild Pokémon on its own — catch rates vary like a standard GO Plus device.
- 2Auto-spins stops
PokéStops in range get spun automatically — items, eggs and research tasks keep flowing hands-free.
- 3Runs in-game
No pairing, no battery, no $35 accessory — it lives inside the app itself.
- 4Session-limited
Like the physical devices, it runs for a session window then needs reactivation — it's an assist, not a bot.
Getting the most from it
Best on commutes
Walking routes, bus rides and Community Day paths are where auto-spin + auto-catch compounds.
It uses your items
Throws come from your standard Poké Ball stock — low balls mean short sessions.
Catches are lower-tier odds
Auto-catch uses basic throw mechanics — high-value spawns still deserve manual throws.
Battery vs hardware
The gadget trades the GO Plus's zero-battery use for convenience — screen-off behavior depends on settings.
FAQ
Is the Explorer Gadget free?
Yes — it's an in-game feature, no separate purchase or hardware.
Does it replace the GO Plus device?
Functionally it covers the same job — auto-catch and auto-spin — without buying the accessory.
Does it catch everything?
It throws at whatever spawns — flee rates and catch odds are similar to a physical GO Plus, so rare spawns can still escape.
Where do I turn it on?
In the game's feature menu — look for the Explorer Gadget toggle in the items/settings area.