Pokemon Go is getting an update that will make it easier and more fun to catch them all

The Pokémon Go smartphone sensation is getting a new update that will add Buddy Pokémon - a system that will make it a lot easier and more fun to evolve the Pokémon of your choosing.

Here's how Buddy Pokémon will work, as indicated by a Facebook post made by Pokémon Go developer Niantic:

• You'll be able to pick one Pokémon to be your buddy at a time. You can swap it at any time.
• Buddy Pokémon will earn candy as they walk. That means you'll be able to evolve them faster. We don't know exactly how much candy they'll earn yet.
• Any Pokémon in the game (that you've already caught) will likely be available as a buddy. Niantic says that having a Buddy Pokémon opens up "unique in-game rewards and experiences," potentially based on the type of Pokémon.

The Buddy Pokémon system looks like it will add a little variety to the game, while also removing much of the tedious process of capturing Pokémon to harvest candy while you're trying to evolve them.

Here's Niantic's full post: