Pokémon Go is all about getting outside, meeting trainers, and building your Pokédex. Trading has always been a big part of that fun. But many players keep asking one thing again and again. Are Pokémon Go remote trades actually possible?
Short answer. Not officially.
Long answer. There are workarounds, limits, and a lot of confusion. Let’s clear it properly.
What Are Pokémon Go Remote Trades?
Remote trading means exchanging Pokémon with another player without being physically near them. Sounds simple, right. In Pokémon Go, trading normally requires both players to be within about 100 meters. That rule has stayed mostly unchanged since trading launched.
So, if you are in New York and your friend is in Tokyo, direct trading is not allowed inside the game.
Why Niantic Does Not Allow True Remote Trading
Niantic built Pokémon Go around real world movement and social interaction. They want players to meet, walk, and explore together. Allowing global remote trades would break that core idea.
There is also game balance to think about. Region exclusive Pokémon, rare shinies, and lucky trades would lose value if trading became unlimited.
That is why Niantic has kept location based trading strict, even during events.
Common Myths About Remote Trades
Many websites and videos claim secret tricks. Let’s be honest here.
There is no official remote trade feature.
VPNs do not enable real trading.
Third party apps claiming remote trades are risky and often lead to bans.
If something sounds too easy, it usually is fake. Niantic tracks unusual activity very closely.
The Only Practical Workarounds
While true remote trading does not exist, trainers still find ways to plan smart.
One method is travel coordination. Trade when you meet during events, vacations, or local meetups. Friendship level stays even if distance changes.
Another option is trading through trusted local friends. For example, you give Pokémon to a nearby friend who later trades with someone else. This takes time and trust, but players do it.
Special events sometimes increase trading distance. These are limited time bonuses and the distance increase is small, not global.
Tips to Prepare for Future Trades
Even without remote trades, you can still prepare.
Build high friendship levels with trainers worldwide.
Save rare Pokémon for lucky trades.
Use special trades carefully since they reset daily.
Follow official Pokémon Go updates. Niantic does test features slowly.
Rumors about expanded trading appear often, but only official announcements matter.
Will Pokémon Go Ever Add Remote Trades?
Niantic has not confirmed full remote trading. However, they have shown flexibility before. Remote raids were once unthinkable, and now they are common.
If remote trades happen, expect limits. Possibly higher stardust cost, event only access, or friendship restrictions.
For now, patience is key.
Final Thoughts
Pokémon Go remote trades are one of the most requested features, but also one of the most misunderstood. There is no safe way to trade globally right now. Planning ahead, building friendships, and watching for events is the smart move.
Play clean, stay informed, and your Pokédex will grow. Slowly, yes. But safely.