The field tests for Pokémon GO are, as of today, being expanded from Japan to Australia and New Zealand. Although the two countries were interestingly missing when CEO of The Pokémon Company Tsunekazu Ishihara discussed the planned tiered launch of Pokémon GO, this news confirms that the game will not only be coming to those territories, but will be playable before most of the world in the form of the field test.
Those who signed up for field tests, announced earlier this month may receive an email today (or at any time starting from today) if they have been selected for the field test. The email will include information from Niantic regarding how they may set up the field test on their devices. The game will be available on iOS and Android mobile devices.
According to Niantic, selection for the field test depends on “a variety of factors which may include OS types, experience in real world games and an element of luck”. Over time, the number of invites will be increased, so if you don’t receive an email soon, you might still be invited to participate later.
It is presently unclear if Niantic will expand the field tests to other territories as well. The release date for Pokémon GO has also not been announced yet, although it is expected to be launched later this year, which marks the 20th anniversary year for the Pokémon franchise.