Pokémon GO ending key stay-at-home benefits despite pandemic

Niantic has made the controversial decision to end several stay-at-home benefits in Pokémon GO, starting from tomorrow.

In an update Niantic stated:

Over the past few months, we've been making temporary changes to Pokémon GO to adapt to the changing global environment. Some of these changes will remain implemented for the foreseeable future, such as the ability to raid remotely, changes to the GO Battle League, and the increased distance at which you can spin Photo Discs at Gyms and PokéStops. We thank you for all your feedback.

Niantic says that several benefits and bonuses will remain in the game to improve the overall experience. They are:

• The maximum number of Gifts you can carry in your bag remains at 20
• Stardust and XP will still be boosted for your first catch of the day
• Incense duration remains at 60 minutes

However, Niantic is bringing an end to several key benefits. They are:

• Hatch Distance will return to normal for Eggs.
• The increased effectiveness of Incense will now apply only while walking.
• Your Buddy Pokémon will now bring you Gifts only when you have nearly run out. This will happen only once per day.
• You will still have a higher chance of getting a Gift when you spin a PokéStop. However, you won't be guaranteed to get a Gift.

How to play Pokémon Go while Social Distancing

Niantic says Incubators will be included in more boxes in the in-game shop. In defense of these actions, Niantic states:

When possible, people are generally encouraged to spend time outside, go on walks, and exercise for their mental and physical health—all while social distancing and abiding by other health and safety recommendations.

The aforementioned bonus changes will take effect from October 1, 1 pm PT.

Niantic further encourages its players to be aware of their surroundings and to follow guidelines from local health authorities.

Despite Niantic's defense, plenty of users are very upset with the decision. With COVID-19 cases on the rise in many countries, it seems plenty of players are still under lockdown or stay-at-home measures and are very unhappy about the prospect of these benefits ending:

Niantic recently announced that Pokémon GO and Pokémon HOME will be compatible by the end of the year.