How to fix Pokémon Go unable to authenticate error

When you try to access Pokémon Go, you’ll typically log into the game with a username and password from a specific service. Some players use a Facebook login directly and others use a Google login. However, when a new patch hits the game, sometimes this login process gets messed up, preventing you from getting into the game and giving you the “unable to authenticate” error. Here’s what you need to know about how to fix Pokémon Go authentication error.

What is the unable to authenticate error in Pokémon Go?

If you’re getting the unable to authenticate error while trying to play Pokémon Go, unfortunately, it has to do with the servers. There may be a problem on Niantic’s part. For example, if they try to insert a new wallpaper or item into the game, this could cause problems with their servers, ruining the experience for a handful of players.

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There are a few ways to check if others are having trouble with this error. A good method is to check the Pokeminers website and see if they have updated their game issues page. The team reliably aggregates issues that players have reported they are having, even listing if Niantic is actively working on an issue or if it has yet to show up on their desktop. Pokeminers is not an official website associated with Niantic so please do not contact them for help. Alternatively, you can submit a ticket to the Pokémon Go Help Center, issue a formal problem report, and wait for the servers to come back up.

Unfortunately, other than issuing a report and waiting for the developers to contact you, there isn’t much else you can do. You will need to wait for the servers to come back and for Niantic to take care of the problem.

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