To sign into Pokémon GO with Google, open the game, tap Returning Player on the sign-in screen (or New Player if you’re starting fresh), and choose Google. Pick your Google account from the list, or add one, and allow access. If you already play with another login method, link Google to your existing account first from the in-game Settings > Account (or Linked accounts) so you don’t accidentally create a new trainer.
Below are the steps for new and existing players, how to switch accounts, and what to do if Google sign-in fails.
Sign in with Google (new or returning player)
- Open Pokémon GO.
- On the welcome screen, tap Returning Player if you already have a Google-linked account, or New Player to create one.
- Tap Google.
- Choose your Google account. On iPhone, a Google sign-in window opens; enter your email and password if needed.
- Tap Allow or Continue to finish.
Link Google to an existing account
If you signed up with Facebook, Apple or a Pokémon Trainer Club account, add Google as another way to sign in:
- In the game, tap the Poké Ball menu, then Settings.
- Scroll to Account or Linked accounts.
- Tap Google and sign in.
Now you can sign in with Google or your original method and reach the same trainer. A Google account can be linked to only one Pokémon GO account.
Switch to a different Google account
- Tap the Poké Ball menu > Settings.
- Scroll to the bottom and tap Sign Out, then confirm.
- On the welcome screen, tap Returning Player > Google and choose the other account.
Fix Google sign-in problems
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| “Failed to log in” or “Unable to authenticate” | Check your connection, update the game, and try again |
| Wrong trainer appears | You picked a different Google account. Sign out and choose the right one |
| A new trainer starts the tutorial | Close the game, sign out, and sign in with the method linked to your original account |
| Google window won’t open on iPhone | Make sure Safari isn’t restricted in Screen Time |
| Child account blocked | Players under the age limit need a parent-approved account |
Keep your account safe
- Turn on 2-Step Verification for your Google account.
- Link more than one sign-in method so you can still get in if one stops working.
- Don’t share your login with third-party apps or “bot” services, which can get your account banned.
Related: sign out of one Google account.
Related: use Google Authenticator for Facebook.
Related: How to fix Pokémon GO crashing on startup.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play Pokémon GO with two Google accounts on one phone?
Yes, but only one at a time. Sign out and sign in with the other account to switch.
Can I unlink Google from Pokémon GO?
Account linking options change over time. Check the Linked accounts section in Settings, and keep at least one working sign-in method.
I forgot which login I used. How do I find my account?
Try each option you might have used on the Returning Player screen. Your level and Pokémon confirm the right trainer.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.