The Pokemon Company has revealed that its longstanding free video streaming service, Pokemon TV, is set to cease operations in March. The announcement was made on January 8, expressing gratitude to fans for their ongoing support and affection for Pokemon TV. The decision to shut down the Pokemon application has not been clarified at this point, and there is no indication of whether a similar product is in the pipeline.
Established in 2010, the Pokemon TV website served as a platform for enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite Pokemon shows, specials, and movies. The official app made its debut in 2013 for both Android and iPhone users, and it became accessible for download on the Nintendo Switch in 2021. This streaming service encompassed all of Pokemon’s animated series and films, providing free access. Apart from the Pokemon anime and movies, Pokemon TV featured special content such as card game tutorials, event recordings, and more.
According to The Pokemon Company’s official statement, the application ceased to be available for download on all supported platforms as of January 8. For users who already have the app installed on their devices, it will remain functional until March 28, when the service will officially terminate. The reason behind the closure of Pokemon TV was not disclosed by The Pokemon Company, but alternative streaming platforms were suggested for fans to continue enjoying Pokemon content.
When is The Pokemon TV Shut Down?
- January 8 – Pokemon TV app and website unlisted.
- March 28 – The official shutdown date Pokemon TV.
The discontinuation of Pokemon TV is likely to be a disappointing setback for fans. The service, not only free but also consolidating all crucial Pokemon content in one easily accessible platform, offered a convenient solution for enthusiasts. Now, however, the same content is dispersed across multiple streaming services such as Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Tubi. This forces fans to navigate through different platforms and potentially incur additional subscription fees from services like Netflix. Compared to the user-friendly experience provided by Pokemon TV, this new arrangement poses challenges for fans seeking access to their cherished Pokemon shows and films.
The reason behind the discontinuation of the streaming service remains unclear, and there is no indication of plans for a replacement. In previous instances, such as the shutdown of Pokemon TCG Online, alternative services were promptly prepared and released just days later. With Pokemon Day approaching, accompanied by a flurry of announcements, speculations are circulating regarding the potential unveiling of a new streaming service. Whether Pokemon TV has been retired for a rebranding initiative, due to financial considerations, or simply a lack of viewership, its devoted fan base is undoubtedly set to miss the service.
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