A new update for Pokémon Sun & Moon introduces an assortment of new characters, Pokémon, and features to the games. First come a few new Pokémon. Type: Null is a Normal-type synthetic Pokémon designed to adapt and copy the strengths of various other Pokémon. It has a mask fitted to its head to control its power and is the partner Pokémon of Team Skull's Gladion. The other new Pokémon is Dragon-type Jangmo-o. It takes maintaining its strength very seriously, living in harsh locales where it can train. These are joined by the larger Alolan version of Raticate. Like the Alolan Rattata, it is a Dark/Normal-type.

These are not the only new creatures revealed. Alola is home to rumours of Ultra Beasts. These creatures have incredible power and pose a threat to both humans and Pokémon. These are referred to by their code names, such as UB-01. UB-01 has a body made up of a glass-like material and appears to constantly change shape but its movements resemble a young girl.

Sun & Moon also introduce the Aether Foundation. This organisation is dedicated to research, with a stated goal of caring for and sheltering hurt Pokémon, and is headquartered on Aether Paradise, an artificial island that it created. The Aether Foundation is lead by its president Lusamine, with green sunglasses-wearing Faba acting as second-in-command. Wicke is the assistant branch chief of Aether Paradise and is very popular with the organisations employees, who wear different uniforms depending on their division.

The games feature a couple of returning characters. Dexio and Sina originally appeared in Pokémon X & Y as the professor's assistants. In Sun & Moon they give the player the Zygarde Cube, asking players to collect Zygarde Cores and Zygarde Cells, which may lead the player to the legendary Pokémon Zygarde. Another item coming to Sun & Moon is the Poké Finder. This allows players to take pictures of Pokémon in certain spots in Alola. Taking well-rated photos can unlock extra features such as zooming.

This generation of Pokémon games will have an extra difference between its versions. Many Pokémon titles simply have a difference in certain Pokémon only being discoverable on particular versions. While this remains the case in Sun & Moon, the two games will also operate with different times. Sun will have the in-game time matching that of the 3DS system, while Moon will have its time offset by twelve hours. Different Pokémon will also appear in certain trials between the two games.

Pokémon Sun & Moon also received a new Japanese trailer. This trailer shows glimpses of many parts of the game including appearances from the two mascot legendaries, Solgaleo and Lunala. Pokémon Sun & Moon are due out for Nintendo 3DS in North America on November 19, 2016, and in Europe on November 23, 2016.