Author: GizNews

  • Garmin Chat Connector: AI Analysis for Smartphones Without Subscription

    Garmin Chat Connector: AI Analysis for Smartphones Without Subscription

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin Connect combines data from Garmin devices and third-party services, offering insights into training load, performance, recovery, and sleep quality.
    2. Garmin is enhancing data presentation for better user understanding and organization.
    3. The new Garmin Chat Connector aims to provide conversational data analysis, though it is not yet officially launched.
    4. The Chat Connector works with Garmin Chat Desktop, enabling local data analysis using AI and allowing users to ask questions in natural language.
    5. Currently, there are 16 tools available for creating training summaries, with plans to support more AI platforms in the future.

    In Garmin Connect, various data sets from Garmin devices and some third-party services come together. This collection provides users with an in-depth look at their training load, performance status, recovery times, and sleep quality. Garmin is continually improving how this extensive data is displayed, ensuring it is organized and easy to understand for users.

    New Features on the Horizon

    Recently, the Garmin Chat Connector has been introduced as a new tool that focuses on conversational data analysis. Rod Trent mentioned that the project is close to being finished, although it is not yet officially launched and doesn’t represent an official Garmin product.

    Enhancing User Experience

    The Chat Connector works alongside Garmin Chat Desktop, which enables local data analysis via an AI model and allows users to ask questions in natural language. Even though it isn’t a mobile application in the traditional sense, it expands on existing mobile apps provided by AI companies. Users will get a private URL that can be set up as a custom connector in AI applications like ChatGPT or Claude. At this time, there are 16 tools available, categorized into five groups. These tools allow for the creation of training summaries over specific periods. Plans are in place to support more AI platforms in the future.

    Rod Trent, image source: Inge Schwabe, Notebookcheck

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  • Oppo Pad 5 Pro Specs and Launch Timeline Leaked

    Oppo Pad 5 Pro Specs and Launch Timeline Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Pad 5 Pro is expected to feature a large 13.2-inch display, but the type (IPS LCD or OLED) is still unknown.
    2. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, offering approximately 20% better CPU performance than its predecessor.
    3. The tablet is rumored to include a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera, along with a battery capacity of around 13,000mAh and 67W fast charging support.
    4. Four memory options are anticipated: 8GB/256GB, 12GB/256GB, 12GB/512GB, and 16GB/512GB.
    5. The Oppo Pad 5 Pro may launch in April 2025, potentially alongside the Oppo Find X9 Ultra, with no details yet on international availability.

    Oppo is said to be developing the next version of the Pad 4 Pro, which was introduced in April 2025. To give you some background, the Oppo Pad 4 Pro was a top-tier Android tablet powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Recently, a source has disclosed important details about the specifications and when we can expect the Oppo Pad 5 Pro to be released.

    Display Information

    According to the source known as Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the Pad 5 Pro will boast a sizable 13.2-inch screen. However, it remains unclear whether this will be an IPS LCD or an OLED display.

    Performance Specifications

    The new tablet is rumored to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a cutting-edge Qualcomm processor built on a 3nm architecture. In comparison, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is expected to provide roughly 20% better CPU performance than the Snapdragon 8 Elite seen in devices like the OnePlus Pad 3, which currently retails for $699 on Amazon.

    Camera and Battery

    The Oppo Pad 5 Pro is anticipated to have a 13MP camera on the back and an 8MP camera in the front. It’s also likely to come with a battery capacity around 13,000mAh, supporting 67W fast charging. Additionally, the tipster has mentioned four different memory options: 8GB/256GB, 12GB/256GB, 12GB/512GB, and 16GB/512GB.

    The same source suggests that the Oppo Pad 5 Pro might be launched in April, alongside the Oppo Find X9 Ultra. This timeline could be specifically for the Chinese market, and there’s no current information regarding international availability. In related news, the company is also expected to unveil a new compact flagship device called the Find X9s for the global audience.

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  • Apple MacBook Pro 14 Struggles with M5 Max Performance Issues

    Apple MacBook Pro 14 Struggles with M5 Max Performance Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has launched the M5 Max chip with 18 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores in the MacBook Pro 14, but the power adapter is inadequate.
    2. In stress tests, the M5 Max peaks at 96 Watts briefly, stabilizing around 42 Watts, while the M5 Pro in the MacBook Pro 16 can draw 70W.
    3. CPU and GPU stress tests show a drop in power consumption after initial peaks, with the GPU performance decreasing by about 10% under continuous workloads.
    4. The MacBook Pro 16 is expected to outperform the 14-inch model, better utilizing the M5 Max GPU’s capabilities.
    5. Future M6 chips are anticipated to use a 2 nm manufacturing process, which may require Apple to improve cooling solutions in MacBook designs.

    Apple has introduced its latest powerful chip, the M5 Max, featuring 18 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores, in the compact MacBook Pro 14 that we just took a look at. Our evaluations revealed some problems, and we’ve already mentioned the inadequate power adapter.

    Stress Test Findings

    In our stress tests, the M5 Max (considering both CPU and GPU cores, excluding RAM) peaks at 96 Watts for a short duration of 1-2 seconds. After this burst, the chip drops rapidly to 46 Watts, but it can’t hold this level and eventually stabilizes around 42 Watts. The larger MacBook Pro 16 has an edge in this area, as the M5 Pro can draw 70W during stress tests, which is 66% more. This difference is clearly visible in the chart below (red indicates MacBook Pro 14 M5 Max; yellow represents MacBook Pro 16 M5 Pro).

    CPU and GPU Performance

    When only the CPU or GPU is under stress, similar patterns emerge. The CPU cores can briefly consume up to 75W but then fall back to about 50W. On the other hand, GPU stress can push consumption to 72W, which quickly drops to 55W and eventually stabilizes at 44W, even while using High Power mode. Under continuous workloads, the GPU performance also isn’t consistent, showing a decrease of around 10%. The MacBook Pro 16 seems likely to outperform the 14-inch model and fully showcase the capabilities of the new M5 Max GPU with its 40 cores, which we plan to test soon with a review unit.

    Future Expectations

    The current M5 generation still uses the well-known 3 nm manufacturing process (now in its third generation). We anticipate that the forthcoming M6 chips will transition to the 2 nm process at TSMC, which should enhance efficiency. However, these chips are becoming so powerful that Apple may need to rethink their MacBook designs, incorporating more effective cooling solutions. For more details, refer to our comprehensive review of the MacBook Pro 14 with M5 Max.

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  • Fast-Charging EVs: New Battery Fully Charges in 15 Minutes

    Fast-Charging EVs: New Battery Fully Charges in 15 Minutes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lithium-metal batteries can store more energy and perform better in tough conditions than standard lithium-ion batteries.
    2. The slow charge transfer at the battery’s interface leads to dendrite formation, which can damage performance and create safety hazards.
    3. Researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China improved the electrolyte’s molecular structure to enhance charge transfer.
    4. The new planar-aligned electron channels speed up chemical reactions and prevent dangerous dendrite formation.
    5. The new electrolyte allows batteries to charge to 100% in just 15 minutes, potentially transforming electric vehicles with longer ranges and quicker charging times.

    Lithium-metal batteries are seen as a game-changer, capable of storing much more energy and functioning in tougher conditions compared to the typical lithium-ion batteries that are found in most gadgets today. But, there’s a big problem: the slow movement of electrons and ions at the interface between the battery’s parts and its electrolyte. This issue, known as charge transfer, slows down the process, leading to unwanted chemical reactions. These reactions can create dendrites—sharp metallic formations that can seriously damage battery performance and even lead to fires or explosions during quick charging.

    Innovative Solutions

    To tackle this significant challenge, a group of scientists mostly from the University of Science and Technology of China made changes to the battery’s electrolyte at the molecular level. Their findings, published in the journal Nature Energy, showed that by rearranging the solvent molecules in the electrolyte, they could enhance the charge transfer process.

    Rather than using a typical setup, the researchers positioned the molecules to create flat, well-organized channels, which they called planar-aligned electron channels. This special structure forms a much more robust connection between the moving electrons and lithium ions. By optimizing this link, the newly designed channels greatly speed up the chemical reactions and get rid of the sluggish conditions that lead to dangerous dendrite formation.

    Promising Results

    When the researchers put their new electrolyte into large-scale lithium-metal battery cells, the outcomes were impressive. The flat electron channels enabled the batteries to safely and reliably charge to 100% in just 15 minutes with a power density of 1,747.6 W/kg.

    This groundbreaking research lays out a solid plan for overcoming the severe electrochemical challenges that currently prevent advanced high-capacity batteries from hitting the consumer market. If this technology is brought to market, it could result in electric vehicles that have longer ranges and quicker charging times.

    Nature Energy via Tech Xplore

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  • MSI to Increase Gaming Laptop and GPU Prices by 30% Due to Shortage

    MSI to Increase Gaming Laptop and GPU Prices by 30% Due to Shortage

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI plans to increase prices of gaming laptops and GPUs by 15-30% due to memory shortages.
    2. The PC market may decline by 10-20% by 2026, according to MSI’s co-founder Huang Jinqing.
    3. MSI has limited memory inventory of only 1-2 months and faces challenges from DRAM suppliers.
    4. High-end graphics cards like the RTX 5070, 5080, and 5090 are seeing unprecedented price increases.
    5. MSI is shifting focus from budget gamers to enthusiasts and enterprise clients to capitalize on AI server growth.

    Building or purchasing a PC has become too expensive for a lot of gamers. Sadly, the Taiwanese Economic Daily News has shared more troubling news from another manufacturer. Due to the shortage of memory, MSI is planning to increase the prices of gaming laptops and GPUs by 15-30%. The company will focus on higher-end products and increase production of AI servers.

    Update from MSI’s Co-founder

    During a recent briefing, co-founder and executive Huang Jinqing informed investors about the situation. The rising costs of memory might also impact prebuilt gaming desktops and handheld devices. Jinqing noted the effect of the limited components, predicting that the PC market could decline by 10-20% by 2026.

    Inventory Concerns

    The Taiwanese news outlet reported that MSI currently has only “1-2 months of secure memory inventory.” DRAM suppliers, like Samsung and SK Hynix, are hesitant to make long-term agreements. Despite these difficulties, the company is optimistic that it can manage costs by raising the prices of gaming laptops and GPUs.

    MSI’s strategy is clear when it comes to the graphics card sector. As Nvidia responds to the rising demands of AI data centers, it is sending a reduced number of chips to its partners. MSI anticipates selling fewer Blackwell cards but will concentrate on the more profitable premium SKUs.

    Price Shock for Gamers

    Gamers have been shocked as options like the RTX 5070, 5080, and 5090 appear at unprecedented prices. These models might even get pricier to boost profit margins. The more commonly available RTX 5050 could also face threats since it doesn’t generate significant revenue.

    The company also plans to revisit the past with more DDR4-compatible motherboards. Although older modules have been affected by the memory crisis, they are still less expensive than DDR5 RAM. Gamers may need to settle for reduced performance in the latest gaming laptops and desktops.

    MSI has previously supported budget-conscious gamers with its MAG monitors and motherboards. However, it is now focusing on enthusiasts and enterprise clients to take advantage of the AI server growth. Even with a decline in the gaming PC market, it aims for an annual growth rate of 50-100% in the next 3-5 years.

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  • New Citizen Collaboration Watch with Stunning Green Dial

    New Citizen Collaboration Watch with Stunning Green Dial

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Citizen Black Panther 60th Anniversary Watch, model AW1858-03W, will join the existing lineup, which includes the AW1668-50W.
    2. The watch features a black and green color scheme inspired by T’Challa, with a triangular patterned dial and a gold Black Panther mask logo.
    3. It has a 42 mm metal casing, a black silicone strap, and an engraving celebrating the Black Panther’s 60th anniversary on the back.
    4. The AW1858-03W operates on a J810 Eco Drive movement, has a date display, and is water-resistant up to 100 meters.
    5. The watch is priced at $450 but is currently ‘Temporarily Out of Stock’ on Amazon, with no information on availability or broader release.

    A fresh Citizen Black Panther 60th Anniversary watch is coming soon. The AW1858-03W will be added to the current lineup of this collaboration, which includes models like the AW1668-50W.

    Design and Features

    The Citizen Black Panther 60th Anniversary Watch has been found listed on Amazon US. This listing shows off its design and various specifications. Additionally, an image of the watch is available on the official Citizen website in the US, specifically on the TerraForce AW1890-51X product page.

    Inspired by a Hero

    The AW1858-03W features a black and green color scheme that takes inspiration from T’Challa, the King of Wakanda. The watch dial displays a triangular pattern in shades of green, black, and white, featuring a gold Black Panther mask logo right in the center. There are purple accents on the minute track, all framed by a black ion-plated stainless steel bezel. With a metal casing measuring 42 mm (about 1.65 inches) wide, it features an engraving of the Black Panther 60th anniversary on the back. This model comes with a black silicone strap.

    Technical Specifications

    The AW1858-03W is equipped with three analog hands and a simple date display. It operates using a J810 Eco Drive movement that charges under any light source. The dial is safeguarded by a sapphire crystal, and the watch is promoted as water resistant up to 100 meters.

    As per the listing on Amazon, the Citizen Black Panther AW1858-03W watch will be priced at $450. It is currently labeled as ‘Temporarily Out of Stock’, and there’s no information on when it might be available for purchase in the US. There are also no updates regarding a broader release.

    Citizen, Citizen via Amazon.

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  • Casio Edifice EQB-1300: Slim Watch New Images Leak Online

    Casio Edifice EQB-1300: Slim Watch New Images Leak Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Casio Edifice EQB-1300 watches were confirmed in a certification database for 2025.
    2. Two versions of the watches have been revealed: EQB-1300DC-3A with a green dial and dark gray casing, and EQB-1300D-2A with a mid-blue face and lighter silver casing.
    3. Both models feature baton indexes, three analog hands, a date display, and two indicator dials for time and weekday/stopwatch functions.
    4. Expected features include Bluetooth connectivity, Tough Solar charging, world time zone support, and a slim casing around 9 mm in thickness.
    5. Availability and pricing for the EQB-1300DC-2A and EQB-1300DC-3A watches are still unknown, but current models start around €299.

    More details about the new Casio Edifice EQB-1300 watches have come to light. The model number was confirmed in a certification database in Indonesia for 2025, and one image of the timepiece was shown in a recent report from Casioblog.

    New Images Released

    Now, Casioblog has shared two additional images of the Casio Edifice EQB-1300 watches in a recent post. The first watch features a green dial and a dark metallic gray metal casing, known as model EQB-1300DC-3A. The second version, the EQB-1300D-2A, showcases a mid-blue face paired with a lighter silver metal casing.

    Confirmation of Features

    These images provide more insights into the features of the Casio Edifice watches. Both models display baton indexes matching the color of the casing. They also include three analog hands, a simple date display, and two indicator dials. One dial appears to show the time in a 24-hour format, while the other seems to combine a weekday indicator with a stopwatch.

    Expected Features and Pricing

    Casio’s forthcoming Edifice EQB-1300DC-2A and EQB-1300DC-3A watches are anticipated to include Bluetooth connectivity and Tough Solar charging. Additionally, they are expected to support various world time zones and feature a daily alarm. Another aspect of these watches is believed to be their slim casing, which might measure approximately 9 mm (~0.35 inches) or even less.

    It is still unclear when the Casio Edifice EQB-1300DC-2A and EQB-1300DC-3A watches will be available for purchase and at what cost. For reference, current models like the EQB-1100D-1A are priced from €299 (Casio Store DE).

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  • Ugreen Launches 17-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 Dock with Discount

    Ugreen Launches 17-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 Dock with Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ugreen launched the Maxidok 17-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station, featuring 17 ports, an upgrade from the previous Revodok Max 2131’s 13 ports.
    2. The docking station supports Thunderbolt 5 technology with a performance speed of 120 Gbps and includes various ports for enhanced connectivity.
    3. It features a PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slot for SSDs up to 8 TB, making it ideal for users needing high storage capacity.
    4. Compatible with both Mac and Windows, it supports dual 6K displays on Mac and up to three 4K displays on Windows.
    5. Priced at $499.99, the dock is currently available for $389.99 through promotions, with shipping starting on March 24.

    Ugreen has launched a new high-end Thunderbolt 5 docking station that features more and quicker ports compared to the earlier Revodok Max 2131 (curr: $299.99 at Amazon) that came out in 2025. This new docking station, named the Maxidok 17-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station, bumps up the total ports from 13 to 17, making it ideal for intensive productivity setups.

    Enhanced Port Options

    Built on Thunderbolt 5 technology with a performance of 120 Gbps, the Maxidok 17-in-1 boasts a total of 17 rapid ports, which include three Thunderbolt 5 ports, two of which are meant for desk accessories. The front side of the dock comes equipped with three 10 Gbps USB-C ports, slots for SD and microSD 4.0 cards, along with a 3.5 mm combo audio jack. On the rear side, you will find the Thunderbolt 5 ports in addition to three 10 Gbps USB-A ports, a DisplayPort 2.1 output, a 2.5 GbE Ethernet jack, and specific audio input and output ports.

    Unique Features

    Unlike other high-end Thunderbolt 5 docks such as the CalDigit TS5 Plus (curr: $499.99 at Amazon), Ugreen has added a PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slot that accommodates SSDs up to 8 TB. This makes it a standout option for those needing high storage capacities.

    The docking station is compatible with both Mac and Windows devices. It can support dual 6K displays at 60 Hz on the latest MacBooks, and up to three 4K displays on Windows machines via Thunderbolt 5 and DisplayPort. Ugreen provides a 240 W power adapter with the dock, which can offer up to 140 W of charging power for the connected laptop, while sharing 60 W between the USB-C ports. The dock features a premium aluminum unibody design with gold detailing and includes a 60 mm cooling fan to manage temperatures effectively.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Ugreen Maxidok 17-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station is available internationally for $499.99 through Amazon and Ugreen. However, a promotional offer currently reduces the price to $389.99 on the Ugreen website, with shipping set to start on March 24. If you are looking for alternatives, the CalDigit TS5 Plus is considered the best choice, providing more ports (20) at the same cost before any discounts.

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  • Retailer Leak Suggests Upcoming Launch of Bethesda’s Sci-Fi RPG for PS5

    Retailer Leak Suggests Upcoming Launch of Bethesda’s Sci-Fi RPG for PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bethesda is expected to reveal the PS5 version of Starfield on March 17 or 18, 2026, with pre-orders starting immediately.
    2. The official launch date for Starfield on PS5 is anticipated to be April 7, 2026.
    3. There are concerns that the recent retailer listings may just be placeholders, but Bethesda has hinted at a reveal later in March.
    4. Starfield on PS5 will likely have two editions: Standard priced at $49.99 or €49.99 and Premium at $69.99 or €69.99, which are lower than the Xbox and PC launch prices.
    5. Retailer listings should be approached with caution until Bethesda makes an official announcement, but a PS5 version of the game appears to be on the way soon.

    Earlier in March 2026, a well-known leaker, @billbil_kun, shared that Bethesda is set to reveal its new major sci-fi game, Starfield, for the PlayStation 5. Recently, the PS5 version of the game has been seen at a Romanian store, indicating that its release might be imminent.

    Release Details

    For those who might have missed it, @billbil_kun mentioned that the official announcement for the PS5 version is expected on March 17 or 18, 2026. Pre-orders will be available right away, while the official launch date is anticipated to be April 7, 2026. The Romanian retailer also claims that Starfield for PlayStation 5 will debut on the same day.

    Speculation on Listings

    There is a chance that the retailer just created a placeholder page based on these rumors, but Bethesda has hinted that they will reveal something regarding Starfield later in March 2026. Many fans are hoping this will be the long-awaited announcement for the PS5 edition.

    Pricing Insights

    The leak from @billbil_kun also touched on potential pricing for Starfield on PS5. Similar to the versions that came out for Xbox and PC in 2023, it looks like there will be two editions: Standard and Premium. The Standard edition is said to retail at $49.99 or €49.99, while the Premium edition may cost $69.99 or €69.99.

    These prices appear to be lower than what was set for the Xbox and PC launches. To recap, Bethesda released the Standard edition at $69.99 (with a $3.50 cash back offer on Humble Store) and the Premium edition for $99.99. Although the price from the Romanian retailer is higher than the leaked one, a Portuguese retailer, GamingReplay, has listed the Standard version online for €49.99.

    In conclusion, until Bethesda makes an official announcement, these retailer listings should be viewed cautiously. Nonetheless, they do imply that PlayStation 5 gamers won’t have to wait long to jump into Bethesda’s sci-fi action RPG.

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  • AOC Launches 5K Gaming Monitor with 180Hz Refresh Rate and Ports

    AOC Launches 5K Gaming Monitor with 180Hz Refresh Rate and Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AOC Agon Pro AGP277KX gaming monitor is now available for preorder in China, with a likely global release due to AOC’s track record.
    2. It features a 27-inch display with a 5K resolution (5120 x 2880) and a pixel density of 218 PPI, supporting a refresh rate of 180 Hz in 5K mode and up to 350 Hz in FHD mode.
    3. The monitor covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 100% of the sRGB spectrum, making it suitable for content creators, though it lacks mini LED backlighting for HDR.
    4. It includes gaming features like dynamic crosshair and dark area enhancement, along with adjustable ergonomics for tilt, swivel, height, and pivot.
    5. The preorder price is 5,999 Yuan (approximately $871), with no confirmed global launch date, although alternatives like the ASUS ROG Strix XG27JCG are available for $850.

    After its announcement in late 2025, the AOC Agon Pro AGP277KX gaming monitor is now up for preorder in China. A worldwide release seems likely, given AOC’s good history of making its products available internationally.

    Impressive Specs

    The monitor features a 27-inch display with a resolution of 5120 x 2880, commonly referred to as 5K. This results in a remarkable pixel density of 218 PPI, making it great for both work and high-quality gaming. The refresh rate is limited to 180 Hz when in 5K mode, but it can reach an astounding 350 Hz in FHD mode, providing a fantastic experience for both casual and serious gamers.

    Color Accuracy

    AOC claims that the monitor covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 100% of the sRGB spectrum, with a ΔE of under 1. This means the panel is also suitable for content creators, even if the 500 nit peak brightness might not please everyone.

    Sadly, those who love HDR will be disappointed since the monitor lacks a mini LED backlight. Consequently, it has a somewhat average contrast ratio of 1000:1.

    Gaming Features and Ergonomics

    This monitor comes packed with various gaming features, such as dynamic crosshair and dark area enhancement. Users can also make ergonomic adjustments for tilt, swivel, height, and pivot. The available I/O ports are quite comprehensive, including several options for connectivity.

    As previously mentioned, the AOC Agon Pro AGP277KX gaming monitor is available for preorder on JD.com, with a price tag of 5,999 Yuan, which is around $871.

    While a global launch may be on the horizon, there are no concrete plans at this moment. Gamers looking for a 5K 180 Hz gaming monitor right away can consider the ASUS ROG Strix XG27JCG, which is currently priced at $850 on Amazon.

    JD.com was noted by ITHome.

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