Sean Hollister is a senior editor here at The Verge. He runs news, writes reviews, and edits stories, and he specializes in, as he puts it, “fun gadgets.” He goes on to say, “It hit me recently that I’m basically a big kid: I want to play. So now I try to spend most of my time toying with nerdy hardware and filming it weekly for you. Please tell me if you see something I absolutely must try!”
Technology
The single best wireless controller I’ve ever used
When we asked him to choose one of his favorite current gadgets, he volunteered to talk about the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller.
Where did you first hear about the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller?
Well, I heard about it in The Verge’s newsroom, and, frankly, I wanted to make fun of it right away because I thought it was bullshit. How could it be the “ultimate” controller if it only supports a single Bluetooth device at a time and has no interchangeable batteries, while the 8BitDo Pro 2 can switch between four different devices, supports both AAs and a rechargeable pack, and costs $20 less?
I was wrong about the controller, but not about the name: 8BitDo has made so many different “Ultimate” controllers that the word is meaningless. Importantly, the one I’m talking about is the Bluetooth and 2.4G version with Nintendo Switch compatibility and drift-resistant Hall effect sticks.
When did you buy it, and what went into the decision to buy one?
Like so many of my favorite gadgets, I bought it when I realized I wanted to keep it. 8BitDo sent us one for review, and it’s Verge policy that our staff can’t accept anything of value from a company, even if they don’t want it back. As soon as we no longer have a valid editorial reason to keep it, it gets returned, donated, or given away (and not to our friends or relatives, either).
But I didn’t want to part with it, so I paid cash for my own.
Speaking of which, my review unit is currently in a review closet awaiting a reader giveaway — I’m hoping to ship it to some lucky Verge subscriber this summer or fall!
What do you like about it?
It’s the single best wireless controller I’ve ever used. It’s the best I’ve used for a PC, and it doubles as one of the top three for the Nintendo Switch, which, for me, easily makes it the best overall. I know that sounds like a high bar, but most of the competition falls short because most manufacturers seem to think PC gamers will either tolerate Bluetooth latency or wired USB cables instead of building a bulletproof 2.4GHz solution.
For over a decade, I’d sworn by Microsoft’s Xbox 360 Wireless Receiver for Windows because of its unmatched speed, reliability, and wireless range, but the 8BitDo Ultimate finally beat it — and without sacrificing proper rumble like so many wireless PC and Switch pads do. Plus, it adds an above average D-pad and magnetic Hall effect sticks that should last.
It’s one of the few controllers that can turn both a Nintendo Switch and a Steam Deck on from across the room, letting me laze on the couch while they’re docked to my TV — and a decent built-in gyroscope means I get gyro aiming on Steam Deck and Switch, too. (You hit power, then shake the controller to activate the wake-on-Bluetooth command.)
The battery life is excellent, too: I clocked over 33 hours of play across several months before needing to drop it back on its bundled charging dock, which also neatly turns the controller on and off when you dock and undock it.
Is there anything about it that you dislike or that you think could be improved?
I would definitely pay $10 more for a version that could pair to more Bluetooth devices, so I don’t have to disconnect from my Steam Deck when I connect to my Switch and vice versa. I suppose I could leave the 2.4GHz dock plugged into my Steam Deck dock, but I prefer to keep it connected to my desktop PC.
I’d also like to be able to remap the two back buttons without plugging the controller into a PC and using special software. The new Ultimate 2 and 2C do that, but I don’t need any of the other new features like LED lighting, adjustable triggers, or extra buttons.
Who would you recommend it to?
Do you have a PC and a Switch or Steam Deck? At its typical $50 sale, buy this gamepad. Do you only have a Switch and don’t care for how the Switch Pro controller feels? Buy this gamepad. But if you primarily play on home consoles, phones, tablets, etc., then don’t buy it.
I also have an 8BitDo Pro 2 that I prefer to stuff into a bag for on-the-go use, and Mechanism makes a great grip for it that you can pair with its Phone Mount to magnetically attach it to your phone.
Is there anything I should have asked that I didn’t?
Have I used the Ultimate 2C, which can be had for just $25-$30 with most of the same features and a few enhancements but has half the battery capacity and doesn’t come with a dock? No, I have not, as I’ve been completely satisfied with the Ultimate Bluetooth. At half the price, it might be the better pick, just so long as pastel colors are your thing.
$50
The 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller comes with its own charging dock, features remappable controls, and is compatible with the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows PCs thanks to its Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity. Unlike the 2.4GHz-only version, it features drift-free Hall effect sticks.
If you’re tired of running your vacuum multiple times just to get the dirt and debris out of the carpets in your living room, Dyson’s 360 Vis Nav is worth a look. It’s one of the more powerful robot vacuums currently available, and now through May 11th (or while supplies last), it’s on sale at Woot for an all-time low of $279.99 ($919 off) with a full two-year warranty.
The last-gen 360 Vis Nav offers a whopping 65 air watts of suction, allowing it to pull dirt, dust, and pet hair from carpets impressively well. In her brief time testing the robovac, my colleague Jennifer Pattison Tuohy said the Dyson “demolished a pile of dry oatmeal in seconds,” adding that she briefly worried it might even suck up the tassels on her large rug (it didn’t). By comparison, many robot vacuums — including Dyson’s new $1,200 Spot + Scrub AI — require multiple passes to fully eradicate the same kind of mess on your floor.
What’s more, the robovac’s small, D-shaped design and the location of its ultra-fluffy brush allow it to dig into edges and corners more effectively than many of the more roundish robot vacuums, while its lower profile lets it easily get under most beds and sofas. The roomy 500ml dustbin also means you likely won’t need to empty it too often, while Dyson’s built-in handle and terrific quick-release button make removing said bin a relatively simple task when it’s time to do so.
While it is undeniably powerful, it’s worth noting that the 360 Vis Nav lacks a few features found on some of its more modern rivals. Although its navigation worked well enough during our testing, it lacks AI-powered obstacle avoidance and doesn’t come with a self-emptying dock. Battery life is also relatively short at around 65 minutes per charge. Nonetheless, if your top priority is quickly removing dust, dirt, and pet hair from carpets without multiple passes, the Dyson remains an option worth considering, especially at this discounted price.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
We’ve often warned you about romance scams and crypto “investment” opportunities that feel too good to pass up. Now, there’s a major update that shows just how organized these operations have become.
The Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation announced a sweeping international operation that led to at least 276 arrests and the shutdown of multiple scam centers tied to cryptocurrency fraud. These networks targeted Americans and drained millions of dollars from victims.
The operation spanned continents and involved coordinated efforts by law enforcement and tech companies.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
TOP 5 SCAMS SPREADING RIGHT NOW
The Department of Justice and FBI say international scam networks used romance and fake crypto investment schemes to steal millions from victims. (Helena Dolderer/Picture Alliance)
How the cryptocurrency scam crackdown unfolded
Authorities worked with partners around the world, including the Dubai Police and law enforcement agencies in Thailand and beyond. Together, they dismantled at least nine scam centers linked to large-scale crypto fraud.
Several suspects now face federal charges in the United States, including wire fraud and money laundering. Investigators say these operations functioned like businesses, with recruitment, management layers and structured systems designed to deceive victims.
Officials made it clear that this effort sends a message. Fraud crosses borders, and enforcement is now doing the same.
How crypto investment scams target victims
These schemes often follow a pattern known as “pig-butchering.” It is a slow, calculated tactic that builds trust before any money is involved.
A scammer may reach out through social media or a messaging app and start a casual conversation. Over time, that interaction turns more personal. In some cases, it feels like a real relationship. Once trust is established, the topic shifts toward investing, often framed as a unique crypto opportunity.
Victims are guided through setting up accounts and transferring funds to platforms that appear legitimate. The dashboards may even show fake gains to build confidence. At that point, control of the money is already gone. Funds are quickly moved through multiple accounts and eventually end up with the scammers.
Many victims are encouraged to keep going, sometimes borrowing money or taking out loans to invest more. By the time the truth becomes clear, the losses can be devastating.
How Meta Platforms, Inc. helped track scam networks
Meta Platforms, Inc. played a key role in the investigation by providing data that helped law enforcement identify and track these networks.
The company says it has taken aggressive action across its platforms. In 2025 alone, Meta removed more than 159 million scam ads and shut down 10.9 million accounts linked to scam centers. More recently, it disabled over 150,000 accounts connected to these networks as part of a coordinated enforcement effort.
“Meta is committed to combatting online fraud and scams, and we are proud to partner with law enforcement in these efforts,” Chris Sonderby, Meta’s vice president and deputy general counsel, said. “We applaud the DOJ and FBI for their leadership in holding criminal scammers accountable and protecting American consumers.”
FROM FRIENDLY TEXT TO FINANCIAL TRAP: THE NEW SCAM TREND
Federal authorities announced a sweeping international crackdown that led to at least 276 arrests tied to cryptocurrency scam centers targeting Americans. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
New tools to stop cryptocurrency scams in real time
Meta is also rolling out new protections across its apps to help users spot scams before they get pulled in.
On Facebook, users may see alerts tied to suspicious friend requests, especially when an account shows unusual behavior such as limited connections or inconsistent location details.
On WhatsApp, new warnings are designed to prevent scammers from linking their own devices to someone else’s account, giving users a chance to pause before approving a risky request.
Messenger is also expanding its scam detection tools. When a conversation shows patterns linked to common fraud tactics, users may receive prompts that explain the risk and suggest actions like blocking or reporting the account.
Why this cryptocurrency scam crackdown matters to you
This operation highlights how organized these scam networks have become. These are not random messages from a single person. They are coordinated groups running structured operations designed to build trust, create urgency and move money quickly.
Even with hundreds of arrests, the threat remains. New networks continue to emerge, often using the same playbook with slight changes. That means staying informed is still one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.
Ways to stay safe from cryptocurrency scams
Scammers follow familiar patterns, which means there are clear warning signs you can watch for and simple steps you can take to protect yourself.
1) Slow down unexpected connections
If someone you do not know reaches out and quickly builds a personal connection, slow things down and question the situation. Scammers rely on momentum, so taking a pause can help you spot inconsistencies.
2) Verify investment platforms before sending money
Before sending money to any investment platform, take time to verify that it is legitimate. A professional-looking website or app does not guarantee it is real. Look for independent reviews and official registration details.
3) Avoid sending crypto to unknown sources
Avoid sending cryptocurrency to individuals or platforms you cannot confirm. Once those transactions go through, they are extremely difficult to recover.
4) Watch for pressure and urgency
Be aware of pressure. If someone pushes you to act quickly or invest more, that urgency is often a warning sign.
5) Use strong antivirus protection
Strong antivirus software can help block malicious links, fake investment sites and other threats before they reach you, adding another layer of defense against scam attempts. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
THE ONE THING SCAMMERS CHECK BEFORE TARGETING YOU ONLINE
Meta said it removed more than 159 million scam ads in 2025 and helped investigators track networks tied to cryptocurrency fraud. (Halfpoint/Getty Images)
6) Limit your personal data exposure
Scammers often rely on publicly available information to build trust. Reducing how much of your personal data appears online by using a data removal service can make it harder for them to target you in the first place. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting CyberGuy.com.
7) Strengthen your account security
It also helps to strengthen your digital security. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts and use trusted security tools to reduce exposure to malicious links and messages.
8) Report scams as soon as possible
If you believe you have been targeted or defrauded, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov as soon as possible.
Kurt’s key takeaways
This global crackdown is a meaningful step forward. It shows what can happen when law enforcement, tech companies and international partners work together. At the same time, these scams are not going away. The tactics will continue to evolve, and new networks will take the place of those that were shut down. Awareness and caution remain your strongest defenses.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
We report a lot about scams but not so much about scammers getting caught. Does this make you feel like real progress is being made in stopping them? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Asus’s latest gaming monitor is a little smaller than usual. The ROG Strix XG129C, announced on Friday, is a 12.3-inch touchscreen IPS display that’s intended to be a sidekick for a larger main monitor, similar to the 14.1-inch secondary display in the 2020 Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 15. It’s a slightly smaller competitor to Corsair’s Xeneon Edge, which has a 14.5-inch display, but the same 720p resolution.
Asus says the XG129C covers 125 percent of the sRGB color gamut and 90 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. It also comes with a one-year subscription for the hardware monitoring tool AIDA64 Extreme, which would usually cost $65. Besides acting as a performance monitor for your PC, sidekick displays like this can also be handy as an extension for streaming or editing setups, much like Elgato’s Stream Deck.
Along with the little XG129C, Asus also announced the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMS, a 34-inch RGB Tandem QD-OLED gaming monitor. It features a 280Hz refresh rate and a 3440 x 1440p resolution, and, according to Asus, covers 99 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Asus has not yet officially announced pricing for either display.
-
Wisconsin1 minute agoWisconsin multi-county police chase, 2 people from Illinois arrested
-
West Virginia7 minutes agowvnews.com | WVNews | Trusted West Virginia News, Sports & Local Coverage
-
Wyoming13 minutes ago(LETTERS) Sun Bucks and Wyoming GOP endorsement
-
Crypto19 minutes agoLagarde Blocks Euro Stablecoin Push, Calls $300B Market a Stability Risk for ECB Policy
-
Finance25 minutes agoBofA revises Harley-Davidson stock price after latest announcement
-
Fitness31 minutes agoStrategic Exercise Techniques to Maximize Mood Elevation – The Boca Raton Tribune
-
Movie Reviews43 minutes ago1986 Movie Reviews – Dangerously Close, Fire with Fire, Last Resort, and Short Circuit | The Nerdy
-
World55 minutes agoTop 50 English-language news sites in the world in April: Just three newsbrands grow traffic in past month