Dataminers have uncovered a new upcoming system lurking in the code of Pokemon Go’s 0.35.0 update: a buddy system.
No, you won’t be teaming up with a partner to catch ’em all; this buddy system is all about taking your favorite Pokemon out for a stroll, like taking your dog for a walk to hunt Pokemon, only instead of your dog, it’s… another Pokemon.
Pokemon Go Hub breaks it down, noting that the system uses “the same server side distance calculation as the one used for Pokemon Eggs,” doles out candy (with a likely daily cap), and limits you to one buddy at a time. Apparently there are different “looks” for your buddy, including big, medium, flying beside you, and sitting on your shoulder judging your life choices.
Miners predict it’ll hit with the next update, so stay tuned!