Author: GizNews

  • Casio Edifice EQB-1300D: New Slim Watch Variant Images Unveiled

    Casio Edifice EQB-1300D: New Slim Watch Variant Images Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Color Option: The Edifice EQB-1300 series now includes a third color variant with a warm brown dial (likely EQB-1300D-5A), alongside previously revealed green and blue models.

    2. Design Consistency: The new model retains the same design style as previous versions, featuring a textured dial with geometric patterns and applied baton indices.

    3. Functional Features: Key functionalities include a three-hand analog display, date window, 24-hour subdial, and a 30-minute chronograph, along with Bluetooth connectivity and Tough Solar charging.

    4. Slimmer Profile: The EQB-1300 series aims for a slimmer profile, reportedly around 9 mm thick, making it closer in design to the EQB-1100 series.

    5. Expected Launch: The anticipated launch date for the new series is April 2026, with pricing details yet to be confirmed.

    Casio’s new Edifice EQB-1300 series has had another leak, showing off a third color option. In addition to the previously revealed green (EQB-1300DC-3A) and blue (EQB-1300D-2A) models, a fresh brown dial variant – likely to be called EQB-1300D-5A – has appeared in new images, thanks to Casioblog.

    Design Changes

    This new version keeps the same design style but alters the color scheme. It features a warm brown dial paired with a silver stainless steel case and bracelet. Similar to the other models, it has a textured dial with geometric patterns and applied baton indices, creating a slightly more complex appearance compared to typical Edifice models, though not by much.

    Functional Features

    In terms of functionality, everything remains the same. The EQB-1300 series is still anticipated to have a three-hand analog display with a date window, a 24-hour subdial, and a combined weekday/stopwatch indicator. A 30-minute chronograph is also included, based on the subdial markings visible in the pictures. Key features are likely to include Bluetooth connectivity for auto time syncing, Tough Solar charging, world time functionality, and a daily alarm. Water resistance is expected to be at 100 meters, similar to most Edifice models.

    Slimmer Profile and Launch

    The notable detail from all leaks remains the case design. Casio is believed to be aiming for a slimmer profile, with a thickness reportedly around 9 mm or less. This would make it closer to the slimmer EQB-1100 series.

    The latest information suggests a launch window in April 2026. Pricing details are still not confirmed.

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  • VSDinside: $60 Wireless Controller for Streamlined Workflows

    VSDinside: $60 Wireless Controller for Streamlined Workflows

    Key Takeaways

    1. The VSDinside Stream Dock MiniW is available for $60, with additional shipping costs of approximately $14 to the U.S.
    2. It is designed primarily for streamers but also supports general desktop tasks and music control.
    3. The device features six customizable buttons, each with an integrated LCD display for easy identification of actions.
    4. It connects via USB-C and offers wireless use with a 2,000 mAh battery for convenience.
    5. The crowdfunding campaign presents a unique opportunity for backers with its attractive price and versatile functionalities.

    A new input device has just been launched through a crowdfunding campaign, which always involves some level of risk for those who back it. This campaign features the VSDinside Stream Dock MiniW, available for only $60, a price that seems quite appealing. Nonetheless, shipping costs to the U.S. are anticipated to be around $14, and backers must choose their color option prior to shipping.

    Target Audience

    The Stream Dock MiniW is primarily designed for streamers, but VSDinside has wider users in mind as well. According to the company, users can set up macros, allowing them to switch between various tools in their workflows with just a button press. This device is also suitable for everyday desktop tasks and controlling music playback.

    Customization Options

    The functionality and design of the buttons are customizable. Each of the six buttons has its own integrated LCD display, showing clearly which action will be triggered when pressed. The product is promoted as a joint effort with MiraBox, meaning that compatible plugins and presets are already available for users. The Stream Dock MiniW connects using USB-C and also offers wireless use, powered by a 2,000 mAh battery—eliminating the need for a constant cable connection. The device’s dimensions are 62.6 × 90.0 × 56.1 millimeters (2.46 × 3.54 × 2.21 inches), with buttons angled for better visibility and easier access.

    Conclusion

    The crowdfunding campaign for the VSDinside Stream Dock MiniW is a notable opportunity for backers. With its appealing price point, customizable features, and versatile applications, it could be a valuable tool for both streamers and general users alike.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Could Offer Cheaper First-Party Tiers with Halo, Fallout, DOOM

    Xbox Game Pass Could Offer Cheaper First-Party Tiers with Halo, Fallout, DOOM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Recent price hikes have made Xbox Game Pass less appealing to many users.
    2. Microsoft may be developing a new initiative called “TRION” or “TRITON,” focusing on first-party games.
    3. The potential new tier could feature titles from Xbox Game Studios, including popular games like DOOM Eternal and Halo 5.
    4. Reactions to the new tier idea are mixed; some see it as a good entry-level option, while others view it as a collection of older games.
    5. The launch date and details of the more affordable Game Pass tier remain uncertain.

    Recent price hikes have made Xbox Game Pass less appealing to numerous users. It seems that Microsoft might be considering adjustments once again. A datamining leak from @redphx suggests that the company is developing a new initiative called “TRION” or “TRITON,” which could vary greatly from the current tiers. Instead of a mixed selection, this potential new tier would reportedly feature only games from Xbox Game Studios or a broader first-party ecosystem. However, this information has not been officially verified yet.

    Possible Game Lineup

    Reportedly, the content could include titles like DOOM Eternal, Dishonored 2, Fable Anniversary, Fallout 4, Fallout 76, Gears 5, Halo 5, Halo Wars 2, Hellblade, Ori and the Blind Forest, State of Decay 2, and The Elder Scrolls Online. Additionally, classic titles such as DOOM 64 or Psychonauts might also be included in this new offering. The leak gains further support from recent statements made by new Xbox president Asha Sharma, indicating that Microsoft is considering a less expensive Xbox Game Pass tier.

    Mixed Reactions

    Reactions in the comments under the X post are split. Some people see the idea as a reasonable entry-level option that – if priced right – could appeal to casual gamers. Others think of it as merely a collection of older first-party games that won’t do much to rescue the struggling Xbox Game Pass. At this moment, however, it is uncertain if and when Microsoft will actually launch a more affordable Game Pass tier.

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  • Slay the Spire 2 Patch Reverts Controversial Changes

    Slay the Spire 2 Patch Reverts Controversial Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Reversal of Controversial Changes: The new beta patch v0.101.0 reverses some debated changes from the prior patch in response to community feedback.
    2. Focus on Prepared Card: The card Prepared, essential to the Silent class, has been reworked after players criticized its alteration, affecting the class’s unique playstyle.
    3. Future Updates for Balance: Developers acknowledge ongoing balance issues and plan to address them more precisely in future updates rather than altering core aspects of the classes.
    4. Encounter and Difficulty Adjustments: Changes to encounters and difficulty that were seen as unfair or excessively punishing have been reverted to restore fairness in gameplay.
    5. Positive Community Feedback: The community response on Reddit is largely positive, with players appreciating the swift action from MegaCrit and clearer communication regarding the changes.

    Slay the Spire 2 has gotten a new update in beta patch v0.101.0, which reverses some of the most debated changes made in the prior beta patch. MegaCrit is taking action in response to strong feedback from the player community. Many gamers believed that after the update, not only were individual cards less balanced, but entire classes and encounters became more frustrating or just less enjoyable to play overall.

    Key Changes to Prepared

    One major criticism was aimed at the rework of the card Prepared. For a lot of players, this card is a key part of what makes the Silent class unique, as it allows for flexible turns and fits well with Discard and Sly playstyles that rely on discarding cards intentionally. The alteration to this card felt to many like a direct hit on the class’s essential nature. Although the developers recognize there are still balance issues with some Sly strategies, the Steam post indicates that the nerf’s implementation wasn’t the right way to go about it. Instead of changing the core feel of the class, the issue will be tackled in a more precise manner in future updates. A similar situation exists with the cards Borrowed Time and Capture Spirit. For Borrowed Time, the developers have even noted in the Steam post that it ought to be enjoyable in all decks and might need a complete rework later.

    Encounter and Difficulty Concerns

    In addition to concerns about cards, players were also vocal about the changes in encounters and difficulty. Enemies like Doormaker and Skulking Colony were regarded by some in the community as too random or excessively punishing. Other system changes, such as early elite fights or increased difficulty through Gloom, faced criticism as they made the game harder but not in a way that players found engaging or fair. Beta patch v0.101.0 reverses these changes, along with additional tweaks designed to restore a sense of fairness and reduce frustration during gameplay.

    Community Response

    On Reddit, the overall sentiment is quite positive, with many players feeling relieved. Numerous players view this patch as a crucial correction and commend MegaCrit for their swift response and for providing clearer explanations about the changes this time. The card Prepared continues to be a hot topic: while some in the community are pleased to see it back, others still think it’s too powerful.

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  • The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Beta Set for April 22, 2027 Release

    The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Beta Set for April 22, 2027 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Launch and Beta Details: The Expanse: Osiris Reborn is set to launch in Spring 2027, with a closed beta starting on April 22, 2026, for players who purchase specific editions.

    2. Exclusive Beta Access: Only players who buy Miller’s Pack or Collector’s Edition will gain access to the closed beta, which will include a complete mission.

    3. Combat Features: The game will feature various weapons and gadgets, along with an Exploit system for companions to execute tactical takedowns on enemies.

    4. Character Highlights: New crew members Regina and Teo were showcased, alongside previously revealed characters, emphasizing the importance of the player’s twin in the storyline.

    5. Game Pass Availability: The game will support Xbox Play Anywhere and be available on day one for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

    Owlcat Games and Xbox recently shared exciting news during the Xbox Partner Preview event on March 26 about The Expanse: Osiris Reborn. According to Xbox Wire, this third-person action RPG is expected to launch in Spring 2027. Additionally, a closed beta for Xbox Series X|S is set to begin on April 22, 2026. The game will be available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud, and it includes support for Xbox Play Anywhere and will be available on day one for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

    Limited Access to Beta

    The beta experience will be more exclusive than a typical public demo. Owlcat’s announcement on Xbox Wire states that only those players who contribute to the game’s development by purchasing either the Miller’s Pack or the Collector’s Edition from the official site will gain access. The beta is scheduled to run from April 22, 2026, until the game’s full launch and will feature a complete mission that starts when players, along with their twin, return to Pinkwater 4 station after fleeing Eros in a hijacked ship.

    Combat and Party Dynamics

    A new trailer and the related post also shed light on the combat and party mechanics. Players will have access to various weapons, including shotguns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, pistols, and submachine guns, as well as gadgets like tactical scanners, drones, and zero-gravity grenades. Owlcat also introduced an Exploit system that allows companions to perform environmental or tactical takedowns on enemy groups.

    Crew Members and More

    Owlcat took this opportunity to highlight additional crew members. The trailer showcases Regina and Teo, along with previously revealed characters such as Zafar and Michael, while the twin of the player character continues to play a vital role in the main storyline.

    In other Xbox news, we also discussed Hades II, which will be available on Xbox Game Pass in April, featuring Xbox Play Anywhere support. Microsoft confirmed that Supergiant Games’ sequel will have a day-one Game Pass release, expanding the Xbox ecosystem.

    Readers may also check out our coverage on CookieRun: OvenSmash launching worldwide, along with a new Braverse booster set, which details Devsisters’ latest updates and the expansion in the trading-card area.

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  • Apple M5 Max Delivers Smooth AAA Windows Gaming Through Emulation

    Apple M5 Max Delivers Smooth AAA Windows Gaming Through Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple MacBook Pro with the M5 Max SoC is capable of delivering good gaming performance, even if it’s not primarily marketed for gaming.
    2. Andrew Tsai’s tests show that the M5 Max can effectively emulate 20 Windows games using Crossover, with most performing well.
    3. The M5 Max can run demanding AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 at over 60 FPS at 1440p/ultra settings without upscaling.
    4. While there are few AAA macOS games, the M5 Max’s strength allows for effective emulation of Windows games and likely console games too.
    5. The M5 Max is highlighted for its performance potential, especially for games designed for macOS.

    While not many people are purchasing the Apple MacBook Pro 14 and 16 equipped with the M5 Max SoC specifically for gaming, it’s clear that the M5 Max has the speed necessary for a good gaming experience. A recent test by Andrew Tsai on YouTube demonstrates that the MacBook Pro with the Apple M5 Max can effectively emulate Windows games.

    Performance Testing

    In his tests, Andrew Tsai evaluated 20 Windows games on the Apple M5 Max using Crossover. Most games performed excellently, although a few had some performance issues. The tests included popular titles like Death Stranding 2, Horizon Forbidden West, and Black Myth Wukong, which are known for their demanding graphics.

    Impressive Results

    From Andrew Tsai’s findings, it is evident that the Apple MacBook Pro with the M5 Max is incredibly powerful. The SoC can deliver smooth gameplay on demanding AAA games, even when using a translation layer for emulation.

    It’s worth noting that the M5 Max shines even brighter with games designed for macOS. Our performance review showed that it could run Cyberpunk 2077 at over 60 FPS at 1440p/ultra settings without relying on FSR or MetalFX upscaling.

    Emulation Capabilities

    Even though there are not many AAA macOS games available, the M5 Max is sufficiently robust to emulate Windows games effectively. This also indicates that the M5 Max should manage console emulation quite well. There are several excellent console emulators available for macOS, such as RPCS 3 for PlayStation 3 and Ryujinx/Hydra for Nintendo Switch emulation.

    You can purchase the Apple MacBook Pro 16 with M5 Max on Amazon.

    Andrew Tsai on YouTube, Teaser image source: Andreas Osthoff for Notebookcheck, nicolepineda on Pixabay, edited.

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  • Apple Music Surpasses Spotify: A New Era in Streaming Services

    Apple Music Surpasses Spotify: A New Era in Streaming Services

    Key Takeaways

    1. Improved Music Discovery: Apple Music’s new “Playlist Playground” feature enhances song discovery, competing effectively with Spotify’s “Discover Weekly.”

    2. Superior Sound Quality: Apple Music offers higher sound quality with “Hi-Res Lossless” and Dolby Atmos, surpassing Spotify’s recent lossless audio launch.

    3. Competitive Pricing: Apple Music is cheaper at $10.99 compared to Spotify’s $12.99, especially beneficial for users within the Apple ecosystem.

    4. Better User Interface: Apple Music’s user interface is visually appealing and user-friendly, while Spotify’s interface is more social media-like and less cohesive.

    5. Fairer Artist Compensation: Apple Music pays higher royalties per stream than Spotify, making it a more artist-friendly platform.

    The ongoing arguments in technology seem like they will never end—there are so many examples. You have Android vs iOS, team red vs team green, Azure vs AWS, and many more. Music streaming is another hot topic, with two major players in the US (let’s not include YouTube Music for now). With the latest update of iOS 26.4, I’m happy to say I’ve made my decision. For context, I’ve been a longtime user of Spotify over Apple Music, but it always felt like a trade-off: I chose Spotify for its user interface and the chance to discover new songs, while I used Apple Music for its higher sound quality. However, in 2026, I believe Apple has finally addressed the “discovery gap,” and considering all factors—the technology, pricing, and ethics—Spotify is no longer the top choice.

    A New Player in Discovery

    Spotify’s “Discover Weekly” used to be its biggest strength. But with the introduction of “Playlist Playground” in iOS 26.4, the competition is more balanced than ever. Although I haven’t tried it myself yet (it’s only available in the US), it looks promising. Unlike Spotify’s algorithm, Playlist Playground leverages on-device intelligence to create a 25-song playlist from a simple text prompt—like “a synth-heavy playlist with moody songs.” It’s quick, it’s precise, and I hope it gives me more control over my music curation, which was previously Spotify’s domain.

    Sound Quality Matters

    When it comes to sound quality, Apple wins by a landslide. Spotify just launched its lossless audio tier at the end of 2025, but it feels like it came too late. While Spotify’s lossless audio reaches 24-bit/44.1 kHz, Apple Music’s “Hi-Res Lossless” goes up to 24-bit/192 kHz (I stick with the former since I don’t have the right equipment). Then there’s Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio—although I usually keep it off, it is a cool feature. Spotify still struggles with immersive audio, which is a dealbreaker for those who care about sound quality. Plus, as of March, Spotify Lossless isn’t even available in India, making my decision much easier.

    Pricing Changes the Game

    Pricing used to be similar between the two services, but Spotify’s recent price increases have altered the situation. As of early 2026, a Spotify Premium Individual plan in the US has risen to $12.99. In contrast, Apple Music remains at $10.99 and includes “Apple Music Classical” and high-resolution audio at no extra cost. If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple One bundle, which includes TV+, Arcade, and 50 GB of iCloud storage, makes the music service feel nearly free.

    From a visual perspective, I think it’s not even close, but that might be because I’m using iOS. Spotify looks nearly the same across both platforms, but Apple Music on Android is quite different from iOS. Apple’s new user interface is gorgeous, featuring full-screen artwork that colors the entire display to match the album’s mood. In comparison, Spotify has opted for a TikTok-style vertical feed for some reason—the home feed feels more like a social media platform, which aligns with the company’s focus on that aspect. Additionally, Apple Music includes a karaoke/sing-along feature that works smoothly for the most part, while Spotify’s lyrics tab doesn’t even come close.

    Treatment of Artists

    Lastly, what really pushed me over the edge was how these companies treat the musicians. Apple Music pays about $0.01 per stream, which is nearly two to three times the $0.003 – $0.005 average rate that Spotify offers. Being a premium-only service means Apple doesn’t have to drain royalties to support a large “free” ad-supported tier. Moreover, Spotify has used generative AI for features like daylists and the 2024 Wrapped, which didn’t sit well with some users.

    Certainly, neither of these giants is perfect. Spotify is still reeling from the backlash of its “podcasting-first” strategy, facing ongoing protests about misinformation on platforms like the Joe Rogan Experience. Meanwhile, Apple is under scrutiny from global regulators, having recently faced a hefty €1.8 billion fine for “anti-steering” practices that allegedly disadvantage competitors like Spotify.

    But when you look at the app on your phone today, the choice seems clear. Apple Music offers better sound, greater value, and now, with Playlist Playground and “Concerts Near You,” improved song discovery. If you’ve been sticking with Spotify out of habit and have been thinking of switching—now’s the time. Apple Music makes it simple to transfer your albums and playlists from Spotify too.

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  • Lenovo’s $42 Wireless Earbuds Offer Amazing Features

    Lenovo’s $42 Wireless Earbuds Offer Amazing Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Erazer XP6 OWS wireless headphones are priced at approximately $42, with an additional $4 shipping cost.
    2. Delivery is expected at the end of April, so buyers should be prepared for a wait.
    3. The headphones feature an open-ear design, allowing some outside sound while sitting comfortably around the outer ear.
    4. They support Bluetooth 5.4 but do not include LDAC for high-resolution audio transmission.
    5. The charging case has a display for music playback, voice commands, camera activation, and shows time/date, while the headphones offer up to 60 hours of battery life with touch-sensitive controls.

    The Lenovo Erazer XP6 OWS are the latest wireless headphones that are now for sale. They are priced at approximately $42 through direct import. Shipping costs an additional $4. However, it’s important to note that delivery is expected only at the end of April, so some waiting will be needed. Buyers should also check their local customs regulations, as there may be import duties or taxes based on where they live.

    Design and Features

    These headphones are designed with an open-ear style, which means they do not completely block outside sounds. Rather than fitting snugly inside the ear canal, the ear pieces sit comfortably around the outer ear. They support Bluetooth 5.4, but they do not include LDAC, meaning high-resolution or lossless audio transmission is not available, which is expected given the price range.

    Charging Case and Battery Life

    The charging case serves a dual purpose; it not only charges the headphones but also has a built-in display. This display can manage music playback, accepts voice commands, can remotely activate the camera on a connected smartphone, and displays the current time and date. The headphones boast a total battery life of up to 60 hours. You won’t have to grab the case to change songs or take calls, as the earbuds come equipped with touch-sensitive controls.

    Banggood

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  • Affordable $74 Android Gaming Handheld for Retro Emulation

    Affordable $74 Android Gaming Handheld for Retro Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The D40max gaming handheld is available for purchase on Banggood for about $74, with delivery expected around mid-May.
    2. It is primarily designed for retro gaming, featuring a quad-core SoC and GE8300 GPU, capable of emulating various Game Boy systems and some PlayStation One games.
    3. The device runs on Android 10, allowing users to play APK-format Android games, but limited internal storage may require a microSD card for additional games.
    4. The D40max has 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage, and a 5,000 mAh battery, offering a claimed runtime of up to 6 hours.
    5. It features a 4-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 720 × 720 pixels, resulting in a square display.

    We wouldn’t say the D40max is brand new anymore. Videos showcasing this gaming handheld have been shared for months, but now it’s fairly easy to purchase on Banggood for about $74. Expect delivery around mid-May, so you’ll have to wait a little. Before placing an order, potential buyers should review their country’s customs rules, as there might be import duties or taxes based on the location.

    Retro Gaming Focus

    The D40max is mainly built for retro gaming. It features a quad-core SoC paired with a GE8300 GPU, which may not be super powerful, but it should be adequate for emulating various Game Boy systems. The manufacturer even claims it can run PlayStation One games, at least the less demanding ones. The device is equipped with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage.

    Android Compatibility

    Running on Android 10, the D40max allows you to play Android games as long as you have them in APK format. Simpler or older games are more likely to function well. Due to its limited internal storage, you’ll probably need to install games on a microSD card. The handheld device is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery, with a claimed runtime of up to 6 hours—though actual performance will vary based on usage. It supports charging at up to 10 watts. The 4-inch touchscreen boasts a resolution of 720 × 720 pixels, which creates a square display.

    Banggood.

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  • Lenovo Launches Global 14-Inch Convertible Laptop with OLED & 32GB RAM

    Lenovo Launches Global 14-Inch Convertible Laptop with OLED & 32GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The IdeaPad 5a 2-in-1 features 14-inch 1200p IPS or OLED screens with a maximum brightness of 400 nits and a 60 Hz refresh rate.
    2. Customization options include 16 GB or 32 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and storage choices of 512 GB or 1 TB.
    3. The device has a 60 Wh battery that supports 65 W charging.
    4. Base price starts at $849.99, with upgrades available for up to $1,319.99.
    5. Lenovo products are available in Australia, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and the US.

    Additionally, Lenovo presents 1200p IPS or OLED screens that reach a maximum brightness of 400 nits. It’s important to highlight that both 14-inch displays max out at a refresh rate of 60 Hz and have glossy finishes. Leaving that aside, the IdeaPad 5a 2-in-1 (14AGP11) can be customized with either 16 GB or 32 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and storage options of 512 GB or 1 TB using M.2 2242. Each model also comes with a 60 Wh battery that supports 65 W charging.

    Pricing Details

    The base price for the IdeaPad 5a 2-in-1 (14AGP11) is $849.99, but it can be upgraded to a total of $1,319.99, which includes a Ryzen AI 7 445 processor, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB of storage, an OLED display, and a Windows 11 Pro license. In comparison, the starting models are priced at €1,100 in Europe, CAD 1,189 in Canada, AUD 1,829 in Australia, and £960 in the UK.

    Availability Across Regions

    Lenovo products are available in Australia, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and the US.

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