'Pokémon Go' tracking features news 2016: Latest update brings new tracking features

Niantic Labs has unveiled a slew of enhanced features in its latest update to "Pokémon Go's" in-game tracking system — at least for beta testers.

A number of beta testers took the social media such as Reddit and Twitter regarding the developer's current efforts to address one of the players' long-standing issue over the hyper-popular augmented reality app-based game.

According to a CNET report, two types of tracking system features are currently being rolled back into the mobile game; these are the Nearby and Sightings tracker in beta forms.

How do these two revamped trackers work?

Just like the old version, "Pokémon Go's" Nearby tracker lists down all Pokémon that are within a player's immediate surroundings. It also identifies the PokéStops where trainers could drop by to hunt the virtual creatures. Unlike the old tracker, the updated one appears to be functioning quite well if beta testers' comments hold weight. The Sightings tracker, on the other hand, simply lists down all the Pokémon in a given area with a grass in the icon.

To start tracking a Pokémon, users have to press the View button to get to the map screen that shows where the nearest PokéStops can be found. If the target Pokémon flees before players reach the PokéStops, they will be notified that the creature has already left.

Not everyone is happy though. Some "Pokémon Go" players complain that they are not getting both of the upgraded tracking features. However, Niantic explained that the variation in user interface among beta testers is merely a part of the trial.

"We're currently testing a variation of the "Nearby Pokémon" feature with a subset of users. During this period you may see some variation in the nearby Pokémon UI," said Niantic in a statement.

In a related news, Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) issued a warning to Niantic to drop sensitive locations from its map or face punitive measures. These sensitive locations include dangerous areas, religious sites, and state property, Bangkok Post reported. Failure to do so may lead to possible restrictions including outright ban.