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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fold announced an augmented-reality Bitcoin rewards feature in August 2021 that invited users to explore their surroundings and collect Bitcoin and in-app benefits. The experience was a Fold app feature—not a Pokémon GO mode—and it is no longer available: Fold said its Metaverse Beta would end effective January 3, 2023.
What was Fold AR?
Fold introduced the feature as a way to earn Bitcoin rewards through augmented reality (AR), using a real-world exploration format Fold compared to the hit game Pokémon GO. Players would look around their physical surroundings to discover and collect Bitcoin and in-app benefits. Fold’s August 18, 2021 announcement described the feature; it did not make Fold AR a Pokémon GO mode.
Fold CEO Will Reeves said, “The Fold AR feature provides a fun, interactive way for consumers to earn rewards in bitcoin for their everyday spending.” That was Fold’s description of the launch-era product, not a statement of current earning terms.
How was the Bitcoin-hunting experience supposed to work?
Fold said access would be available for a limited time each day. The announcement also described extra incentives for Fold Visa Debit Cardholders: they could collect more Bitcoin in the experience and receive prizes that improved their odds of a better Bitcoin cashback reward. These were launch-era claims, not current card terms.
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- Pikachu hits the books and scribbles his way back to school
- Wireless controller with Bluetooth 5.0 technology
- Compact ergonomic shell with standard sized buttons & controls
- Features motion controls* and mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
- LEDs for player number, button mapping, and low battery warning
In a comparison to Pokémon GO, the overlap was the idea of exploring the real world to find and collect virtual items. The reward and product purpose differed: Fold presented its feature as a Bitcoin rewards experience tied to its app, rather than a creature-collection game.
What was Niantic’s role?
A 2021 report by Nintendo Life described the relationship as a partnership between Niantic and Fold. Fold’s announcement confirms the AR rewards feature but does not explain Niantic’s specific contribution. The available statements therefore do not establish which company built a particular feature, supplied a platform, or handled licensing.
Rank #2
- Works with Nintendo Switch 2. C button not available
- Wireless controller with Bluetooth 5.0 technology
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery: Up to 30 hours per charge
- Two mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
- Embedded anti-friction rings for smooth thumbstick control
Can you still play Fold AR?
No. Fold announced on December 29, 2022 that it would sunset the Fold Metaverse Beta effective January 3, 2023. Its sunset announcement is the relevant availability update; no later relaunch is established here.
Fold’s current homepage describes other financial services, including cards, gift cards, and Bitcoin buying and rewards. Those services are distinct from the discontinued AR beta and do not provide a way to play it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Works with Nintendo Switch 2. C button not available
- 3.5mm audio jack , Mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
- Detachable 10ft (3m) USB Cable
- No batteries required
- Officially licensed by Nintendo with two-year limited warranty – visit PowerA.com/Support
Rank #4
- Ergonomic controller design with Nintendo Switch button layout
- Detachable 10ft (3m) USB cable with hook-and-loop strap
- Official licensed product with two-year warranty – register at PowerA.com
Rank #3
- 3.5mm audio jack
- Mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
- Detachable 10ft (3m) USB Cable
- No batteries required
- Officially licensed by Nintendo with two-year limited warranty – visit PowerA.com/Support
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
