We want to share an important update regarding feeder setup and software updates.

What Happened

During the feeder setup process, the device determines its timezone using a third-party service. PupPod does not control this service.

Older feeder software versions rely on a legacy timezone lookup service provided by timezoneapi.org. That worked reliably for years, but in early Feb 2026, timezoneapi.org went offline permanently. As a result, feeders running older software could not complete the setup process.

Approximately three years ago (early 2023), PupPod released updated feeder software that uses a significantly more reliable, commercial-grade timezone service maintained by Amazon. Feeders running the latest software version are not affected by this issue.

We have worked out an arrangement with timezoneapi.org to reinstate the service temporarily from March 2, 2026 to May 2, 2026. During this time, customers will be able to update their feeder to the latest software. Depending on when your feeder was manufactured, the latest software version is either 1.1.029, 30.1.009, or 31.1.012. Once your feeder is updated to any one of these versions, you'll no longer be affected by this issue.

Who Is Affected

You are affected if:

• Your feeder has not been updated to the latest software version and you reset your feeder, or

• You are setting up a new feeder that has not yet been updated.

If affected, the setup process may appear to stall. It can look like the toy cannot connect, but the feeder registration process is not completing due to the unavailable timezone service.

The Solution

We are working with the original third-party provider to temporarily reinstate the legacy timezone service. This will allow affected feeders to complete setup and immediately update to the latest software version.

Depending on when your feeder was manufactured, the latest software version is either 1.1.029, 30.1.009, or 31.1.012. Once your feeder is updated to any one of these versions, it will use the newer Amazon-maintained timezone service and will no longer be impacted by this issue.

This reinstatement will be temporary. It is critical that all affected feeders are updated during this window.

If a feeder is not updated before the legacy service is turned off again, it will not be able to complete setup in the future.

How to Update Your Feeder Software

Please follow these steps:

1. Setup Your PupPod System

Follow the normal PupPod setup process. This include plugging in your Feeder and ensuring your PupPod Rocker (the toy) has a working set of D-size batteries. Then follow the setup instructions in the PupPod mobile app. 

2. Update Your Feeder Software

You'll want to be in Bluetooth range of your feeder during the update process.

Step 1: scroll to the bottom of the PupPod app home screen and select the Feeder

Step 2: tap the 3-dots in the upper right corner of the screen

Step 3: select "Update Feeder Software"

The feeder software will go through a few update steps. At the end, you should see a screen confirming the update was successful. If not, try 1 or 2 more times. If the update is still not succeeding, please email support@puppod.com.

Tips for smooth upgrade experience.

1. Make sure your phone is in Bluetooth range of the feeder.
2. Do not unplug the feeder during the update process.
3. Do not navigate away from the update screen on your phone during the update progress. If you switch to another app or turn off your phone screen, your phone may disconnect the Bluetooth connection.
4. After the update is completed, wait until the Feeder light has turned back to solid green state before starting a new game.

What if my update fails?

1. You can retry updating the feeder. 
   1. Force close the PupPod app on your phone and then reopen our app.
   2. Make sure the Feeder light is solid green before you start the update process.
   3. Now follow the instructions in the screenshot above.

3. Confirm Update

The WiFi Firmware version number should be either 1.1.029, 30.1.009, or 31.1.012 depending on when your feeder was manufactured. If the update was successful, but you don't see one of these WiFi Firmware version numbers, please start and stop a game session. That should force the Feeder firmware information to update in the mobile app. 

Once you see one of the WiFi Firmware versions numbers above, you are done. Your feeder is no longer affected by this issue. Congratulations. Give yourself a treat. We believe in positive reinforcement for humans too. 

Need Help?

If you are unsure whether your feeder is running the latest version or need assistance, please open a support ticket by selecting "Send Feedback" from the PupPod mobile app. This action sends us information about your device and creates a support ticket.