'Pokémon GO' promo codes update: Workaround for Apple users

"Pokémon GO" "Grass Weekend" event.Niantic

Many users of Apple devices were disappointed to find out that the promo codes are only currently exclusively available for Android users. However, it is likely that a workaround can be developed to address this issue to allow the former to use these as well.

According to BGR, players of "Ingress," another game made by Niantic, also encountered this problem. However, a workaround was made for this, with players using iOS devices going to a website to redeem promo codes and get the promised prizes.

Currently, only those who are using Android devices can avail of these codes. According to Daily Star, this is because of the restrictions set forth by Apple, which includes the collection of 30 percent fee for every transaction made on an iOS device, regardless of whether these purchases are made online or offline.

According to the official website of "Pokémon GO," the promo codes can be used to redeem items, such as Poké Balls, Lure Modules, and Lucky Eggs, from the in-game shop. Players will get a notification telling them if they have been able to successfully redeem the equivalent item using the promo code. The website also indicates that the game can tie up with other companies for special events. As such, it is likely that the "Golden Week" event, in which all McDonald's Poké Stops are automatically lured, may also be experienced by players worldwide. The activity is currently limited in Japan and is made possible by the company's partnership with the fast-food outlet.

SlashGear reported that uploading of codes in the game began in the morning of May 3. However, it also said that it is unclear yet if the codes are one-use only or if these are universal. It mentioned that the code entry will be text-based.

Neither Niantic nor The Pokémon Company has made official statements about the promo codes as of writing. However, according to the official site, a worldwide event will be held in-game on May 6–7.