For years, Pokémon GO trainers have chased perfect IV Pokémon through raids, research tasks, egg hatches, and wild encounters. Finding a 100% IV Pokémon has always been one of the game's most exciting achievements, but it often comes down to luck.
That changed with the introduction of Bottle Caps and Hyper Training. These new features give trainers a way to improve a Pokémon's IVs after it has been caught, making some of their most treasured Pokémon stronger than ever before.
In this guide, we'll explain what Bottle Caps are, how to get them, how Hyper Training works, and which Pokémon are the best candidates for this valuable resource.
What Are Bottle Caps?
Bottle Caps are special items used to improve a Pokémon's Individual Values (IVs) through a feature called Hyper Training.
IVs determine a Pokémon's Attack, Defense, and HP stats. Each stat ranges from 0 to 15, with a perfect Pokémon having 15 points in all three categories.
Before Hyper Training, a Pokémon's IVs were permanent. If you caught a Pokémon with imperfect stats, there was no way to improve them. Bottle Caps have changed that by allowing trainers to increase those IVs over time.
There are currently two types of Bottle Caps available in Pokémon GO:
Silver Bottle Cap
A Silver Bottle Cap allows trainers to improve a single stat. You can choose either Attack, Defense, or HP and raise it to its maximum value through Hyper Training.
Gold Bottle Cap
A Gold Bottle Cap is significantly more powerful. It can be used to improve all three stats, potentially turning an already strong Pokémon into a perfect 100% IV Pokémon.
Because of their rarity and usefulness, Gold Bottle Caps are considered one of the most valuable items in Pokémon GO.
How to Get Bottle Caps in Pokémon GO
At the moment, Bottle Caps are extremely rare.
Unlike items such as Poké Balls, Rare Candy, or TMs, Bottle Caps are not available from regular gameplay activities. Trainers cannot currently obtain them from:
- PokéStops
- Gyms
- Gifts
- Research Breakthroughs
- Raid rewards
- GO Battle League rewards
Instead, Bottle Caps have been distributed through special events and GO Pass rewards.
The first Gold Bottle Cap was introduced as a premium GO Pass reward, giving trainers their first opportunity to access Hyper Training.
Silver Bottle Caps were introduced later and followed a similar limited-distribution model.
Niantic has not yet made Bottle Caps a regularly obtainable item, meaning trainers should expect them to remain rare for the foreseeable future.
You can watch this video to learn everything about Bottle Caps and Hyper Training in Pokémon GO:
How Hyper Training Works
Obtaining a Bottle Cap is only the beginning. To actually improve a Pokémon's IVs, trainers must complete the Hyper Training process.
Step 1: Select an Eligible Pokémon
Not every Pokémon can be Hyper Trained.
The Pokémon must:
- Be at least a Good Buddy
- Not be a Shadow Pokémon
If a Pokémon does not meet these requirements, Hyper Training cannot begin.
Step 2: Use the Bottle Cap
Once you've chosen an eligible Pokémon, use the Bottle Cap from your inventory.
Silver Bottle Caps allow you to select a single stat.
Gold Bottle Caps begin training for all three stats.
Step 3: Complete Hyper Training Tasks
After activating Hyper Training, you'll receive a set of tasks designed around using the chosen Pokémon.
These tasks may include:
- Walking with the Pokémon as your buddy
- Battling in gyms
- Participating in raids
- Spinning PokéStops
- Other gameplay activities
As tasks are completed, the Pokémon gradually improves its IVs.
Step 4: Finish Before Expiration
Hyper Training is not permanent once activated.
Trainers have up to 365 days to complete the required objectives. If the training period expires before completion, the opportunity is lost.
Because Bottle Caps are so rare, it's important to choose your Pokémon carefully before starting the process.
Best Pokémon to Use Bottle Caps On
Since most trainers may only receive a handful of Bottle Caps, using them wisely is crucial.
Mythical Pokémon
Mythical Pokémon are among the best choices because many can only be obtained once per account.
Excellent candidates include:
- Mew
- Victini
- Shaymin
- Zarude
- Diancie
If these Pokémon have poor IVs, Hyper Training may be the only way to improve them.
Rare Shiny Pokémon
Shiny Legendaries and event-exclusive Shinies often have sentimental value. A Bottle Cap can help make these special Pokémon stronger without requiring endless hunting.
Lucky Pokémon
Lucky Pokémon require less Stardust to power up, making them ideal long-term investments for Hyper Training.
Special Background Pokémon
Pokémon with GO Fest backgrounds, location cards, or other unique collectibles are excellent choices because they combine rarity with improved battle performance.
Pokémon You Should Avoid Hyper Training
Not every Pokémon deserves a Bottle Cap.
Consider avoiding:
- Common Community Day Pokémon
- Frequently available raid bosses
- Easily replaceable Pokémon
- Pokémon you don't plan to power up
Since future Bottle Cap availability remains limited, many trainers prefer saving them for Pokémon that cannot easily be replaced.
Does Hyper Training Increase CP?
Yes.
Since IVs contribute directly to a Pokémon's overall stats, improving those IVs can increase its Combat Power (CP).
The exact increase depends on the Pokémon species and the IV improvements being made, but trainers can expect stronger overall performance in raids, gyms, and certain PvP formats.
Is Hyper Training Worth It?
For most serious Pokémon GO players, the answer is yes.
Hyper Training offers something the game never had before: the ability to improve a beloved Pokémon instead of relying entirely on luck.
Whether it's a favorite Shiny Legendary, a rare Mythical Pokémon, or a special event souvenir, Bottle Caps give trainers a way to invest in Pokémon that hold personal value.
Instead of spending months chasing a perfect replacement, players can now strengthen the Pokémon they already love.
Final Thoughts
Bottle Caps and Hyper Training represent one of the most significant changes in Pokémon GO's history. They provide trainers with unprecedented control over their Pokémon's potential and open the door for long-term progression beyond simply catching new Pokémon.
Although Bottle Caps remain extremely rare, they can transform a good Pokémon into a great one and, in some cases, turn a treasured companion into a perfect hundo.
If you are fortunate enough to obtain a Bottle Cap, choose your target carefully. The right Pokémon could become one of the strongest and most valuable members of your collection.
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