Upgrading is an element of Pokémon Go that, at the moment, serves exactly one purpose. It is used to evolve Porygon into Porygon2. This is currently the only way to evolve Porygon, so many trainers with Porygons in their line-up wonder how to get them.
How to Get the Upgrade Item in Pokémon Go
Evolution items are a fairly rare commodity in Pokémon Go, and upgrades are no exception. There are several methods to obtain them, all of which are similar to the methods of obtaining any other evolution item. Yet all methods barely provide upgrade items, or are rare methods themselves. This means that you shouldn't expect to find an upgrade item instantly - it'll probably be quite difficult.
Method #1: Special Search
There is one method that always provides you with an upgrade, which is to complete the special research assigned to you by Professor Willow. The specific research you need to do is the fifth step in a time ripple. This is the second line of research he gives you, and can only be accessed by completing all of the steps in the research titled A Mythical Discovery.
Once you complete the fifth stage of a Time Ripple, you will find that one of the rewards is an upgrade. Unless you're looking to evolve multiple Porygons, this upgrade should suffice!
Related: Best Normal Type Pokemon In Pokemon Go - Pro Game Guides
Method #2: PokéStops Photo Discs
Another way to get this rare item is to spin Photo Discs at PokéStops and Gyms. It is extremely rare for an upgrade item to fall while spinning the disk itself (less than one percent). However, if you spin at least one Photo Disc every day for seven days, you receive bonus items, one of which is guaranteed to be an evolution item. This doesn't necessarily mean you'll receive an upgrade item, but it does greatly increase your chances.
Method #3: Gifts
The last way to get an upgrade item is by giving gifts. Each friend you have on Pokémon Go can send you one gift per day. The more friends you have in the game, the more gifts you can receive and the more likely one of them will contain an upgrade. Unfortunately, it's extremely rare to find an upgrade when you open a gift. However, it is possible!
Currently, these are the only methods available to obtain an upgrade item, along with most other evolution items. If new options arise, we'll be sure to update this guide!
Want to see how to counter Pokémon of each type? Check out our lists of Pokémon Dark Weaknesses and Pokémon Water Weaknesses!
