Meet John Hanke, Niantic Founder — Bio + How to Reach Out

Last updated: 2025-11-08

Who is John Hanke?

John Hanke is a visionary technology entrepreneur and CEO of Niantic, known for creating Pokémon Go. He has a background in geospatial technology, leading the development of Google Earth and Google Maps. Hanke founded Niantic as an independent company in 2015, focusing on augmented reality and location-based gaming.

John Hanke's Work History

John Hanke has a diverse career in technology, starting with Silicon Graphics, then co-founding Keyhole, which was acquired by Google. He led Google’s Geo division before founding Niantic, where he developed innovative AR games like Pokémon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.

• 2001 - 2004 - Co-founder and CEO, Keyhole
• 2004 - 2010 - Vice President of Product Management, Geo Division, Google
• 2010 - CEO, Niantic

John Hanke's Education

John Hanke attended the University of Texas at Austin, earning a bachelor's degree, and later completed an MBA at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business.

• University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor's degree
• UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business - MBA

About Niantic

Niantic is a leading augmented reality company that develops innovative location-based games and experiences, including Pokémon Go, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, and the Lightship platform, aiming to blend the digital and physical worlds.

Niantic Funding

Niantic became independent in 2015, raising over $300 million in funding, including a valuation of $9 billion in 2021.

How to Reach John Hanke?

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