Category: All News

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Launches: 7 Years Support, AI Features

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Launches: 7 Years Support, AI Features

    Samsung hosted its second Galaxy Unpacked event of the year today, where it introduced several new products, including the sixth-generation Galaxy Z foldables, Watch Series 7, and the highly anticipated Galaxy Ring. The Galaxy Z Fold 6, a successor to last year’s Z Fold 5, brings minor upgrades and a slightly refined design. Here’s a look at what the new foldable device offers.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Specs

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 sports a more rectangular design and features a pill-shaped camera module on the back. When folded, its dimensions are 153.5mm x 68.1mm x 12.1mm, and when unfolded, it measures 153.5mm x 132.6mm x 5.6mm. The device is lighter than its predecessor at 239 grams compared to 253 grams. It boasts an IP68 rating, making it resistant to dust and water. Samsung claims the latest Z-series phone is the most durable yet, thanks to improved Armor Aluminium and Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

    Regarding the display, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a 7.6-inch internal screen and a 6.3-inch external screen, both Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels with a 120Hz refresh rate. The internal screen has a resolution of 2160 x 1856 pixels, while the external screen offers 2376 x 968 pixels. The front of the device features a slightly taller aspect ratio with thin bezels.

    Camera and Performance

    The Galaxy Z Fold 6’s rear camera setup includes a 50MP f/1.8 main sensor with OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom. The external screen houses a 10MP selfie camera, while the internal display has an integrated 4MP sensor. The device can record up to 8K videos and comes with features like Photo Assist, Portrait Studio, and Insta Slow-mo.

    Under the hood, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor clocked at 3.39GHz, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. The graphics are enhanced by Ray Tracing technology. The device is powered by a 4,400mAh battery that supports 25W charging and features an improved cooling system for better heat management. It runs on Android 14 and includes various Galaxy AI features like Note Assist, Sketch to Image, and a fully integrated Gemini app. The Z Fold 6, like the S24 series, will receive 7 years of OS updates and security patches.

    Connectivity options include a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, WiFi-6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, and more.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Pricing

    Pre-orders for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 begin today, with sales starting on July 24. The device is available in Silver Shadow, Pink, and Navy colors. It is priced at $1,899 for the 12GB + 256GB model, $2,019 for the 12GB + 512GB model, and $2,259 for the 12GB + 1TB model.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Launches: 7 Years Support, AI Features
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  • Samsung Galaxy Ring Release: The Wait Is Over

    Samsung Galaxy Ring Release: The Wait Is Over

    Earlier this year in January, Samsung made waves in the consumer tech industry by introducing its first-ever smart ring. Since then, numerous details about the Samsung Galaxy Ring have surfaced through both official confirmations and various leaks and rumors. This innovative wearable from the South Korean tech giant is poised to make a significant impact on the smart rings market. Today, the anticipation ends as the Galaxy Ring makes its official debut at the Unpacked event, sharing the spotlight with the Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, and Watch 7 series.

    Samsung Galaxy Ring Specifications and Features

    The Samsung Galaxy Ring features a titanium grade 5 finish and a distinctive concave design, with its sides tapering toward the center. It boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, and it's waterproof up to 100 meters, making it ideal for swimming. This lightweight device has its smallest variant measuring 7.0 x 2.6mm and weighing just 2.3 grams. Available in nine sizes from size 5 to 13, Samsung provides a free sizing kit with each order to ensure the perfect fit before finalizing the purchase.

    In terms of health and fitness, the Samsung Galaxy Ring is outfitted with an optical heart-rate PPG sensor that delivers crucial data like abnormal heart rates in real-time, along with metrics such as beats per minute and respiratory rate. It also includes a skin temperature sensor and menstrual cycle tracking for precise measurement results. The smart ring can track sleep patterns, offering features like snoring analysis, movement during sleep, and sleep latency. It supports various exercise activities and can automatically detect some workout modes. Users will receive alerts when they have been inactive for extended periods. Another standout feature is the AI-enabled Energy Score, which evaluates your physical and mental state based on multiple sleep parameters.

    Enhanced Usability and Battery Life

    The Samsung Galaxy Ring includes a gesture feature, allowing users to control their smartphone’s camera shutter or dismiss alarms with a double pinch, similar to the Apple Watch's double tap. It is compatible with Samsung Find and has built-in LED lights that flash when the device is misplaced. The wearable is designed to last up to 7 days on a single charge. It comes with a transparent charging case equipped with LED lights to indicate its status.

    The Samsung Galaxy Ring is priced at $399 and is available for pre-orders starting today. Shipping begins on July 24, and the ring will be offered in Titanium Black, Titanium Gold, and Titanium Silver colors.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Launched: Enhanced Battery, Cameras, RAM

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Launched: Enhanced Battery, Cameras, RAM

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 has been officially launched alongside the Z Fold 6. This clamshell foldable smartphone doesn’t introduce any major changes but includes some hardware upgrades. Essentially, it appears that the South Korean company has refreshed last year’s model with updated internals and added AI features. Even so, the latest-generation clamshell foldable phone is set to compete with the likes of the Motorola Razr 50 series and other similar models in the market.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Specifications

    The main Dynamic AMOLED screen of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is 6.7 inches with an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The outer cover AMOLED screen measures 3.4 inches with a 720 x 748 pixels resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. Samsung has retained the folder-icon-like design for the secondary screen, which offers AI-assisted functions like suggested replies without needing to unfold the device.

    The Galaxy Z Flip 6 features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner integrated into the power button. Like the Z Fold 6, this clamshell phone comes with a dual rail hinge structure, Armor Aluminum, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2, making it highly durable. It also boasts IP48 dust and water resistance.

    Camera and Internal Specifications

    In terms of photography, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 has upgraded cameras compared to its predecessor. It now features a 50MP main sensor with f/1.8 and OIS, paired with a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The selfie camera remains the same at 10MP.

    Internally, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor with ray tracing capabilities. It offers up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. This is the first time the clamshell model is equipped with a vapor chamber for heat dissipation. The device is supported by a 4,000mAh battery with 25W charging. It runs on OneUI 6.1-based Android 14 and is guaranteed to receive software updates for 7 years.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is available in Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue, and Mint colors. The 12GB + 256GB variant is priced at $1,099, while the 12GB + 512GB variant costs $1,219. The device will be available for sale starting July 24, with pre-orders beginning today.

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  • Xiaomi Unveils 436L Mijia Refrigerator: Ultra-Thin Design, HypeOS

    Xiaomi Unveils 436L Mijia Refrigerator: Ultra-Thin Design, HypeOS

    Xiaomi has introduced its latest refrigerator, the Mijia Refrigerator Fresh Storage Cross 436L. This new model features a modern, ultra-thin design with a depth of just 60cm, making it ideal for contemporary kitchens with space constraints.

    Mijia Refrigerator Fresh Storage Cross 436L Specifications

    Despite its slim dimensions, the refrigerator provides a spacious 436L capacity. This is divided into a 257L refrigeration area, a 154L freezing section, and a specialized 25L compartment, perfect for baby food and other sensitive items.

    Achieving its sleek profile, the refrigerator incorporates advanced technologies, including a bottom heat dissipation system, which removes the need for side or rear vents, allowing it to fit seamlessly into cabinetry.

    Innovative Design and Functionality

    Moreover, the unique hinge design permits the door to open a full 90 degrees even when placed near a wall, optimizing space usage without compromising on functionality.

    Xiaomi has focused on food preservation in the Fresh Storage Cross 436L. The refrigerator uses a 360-degree air cooling circulation system to maintain consistent cooling throughout, preventing frost formation and eliminating the need for manual defrosting.

    Additionally, it features a quick freezing function that can reach low temperatures swiftly, helping to lock in the freshness and nutritional value of food items.

    Smart Integration and Hygiene Features

    This smart refrigerator integrates effortlessly with Xiaomi’s smart home ecosystem. Users can connect it to the Mi Home App to control temperature settings and modes remotely. It is also compatible with HyperOS Connect and the Xiao Ai voice assistant.

    To ensure a hygienic environment, the Fresh Storage Cross 436L is equipped with an Ag+ ion antibacterial deodorization module, which boasts a 99.99% antibacterial rate, effectively removing odors. The refrigerator also includes a detachable door seal for easy cleaning, preventing mold growth and maintaining optimal hygiene.

    Energy efficiency is a priority for this model, which boasts a first-level energy efficiency rating. It consumes approximately 0.84 kWh per day, making it both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The refrigerator operates quietly at 35dB, ensuring it won’t disturb your sleep.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Mijia Refrigerator Fresh Storage Cross 436L is available for pre-order in China starting July 10th, with a starting price of 2499 yuan (around $343).

    Xiaomi Unveils 436L Mijia Refrigerator: Ultra-Thin Design, HypeOS
    Xiaomi Unveils 436L Mijia Refrigerator: Ultra-Thin Design, HypeOS
    Xiaomi Unveils 436L Mijia Refrigerator: Ultra-Thin Design, HypeOS
    Xiaomi Unveils 436L Mijia Refrigerator: Ultra-Thin Design, HypeOS
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  • Motorola Phonesthat will Not Receive Android 15 Update

    Motorola Phonesthat will Not Receive Android 15 Update

    Android 15 is currently being developed, with several smartphone brands already offering the beta version for users to preview the upcoming OS. Sadly, Motorola isn’t as enthusiastic as its customers and tends to lag in the software update process.

    Google, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo, and Nothing have all announced the Android 15 beta. Motorola, however, has not made any announcements, and based on previous rollouts, it’s unlikely to catch up soon.

    If you are eagerly anticipating the Android 15 update, ensure you own a Motorola smartphone that qualifies for the upgrade. Below is a list of Motorola phones that will not receive the update.

    Motorola Android 15 Ineligible Devices List

    Motorola Razr series

    • Motorola Razr (2022)
    • Motorola Razr 5G
    • Older Razr models

    Motorola Edge series

    • Motorola Edge 30 Fusion
    • Motorola Edge 30 Neo
    • Motorola Edge (2022)
    • Motorola Edge+ 5G UW (2022)
    • Motorola Edge 30 Pro
    • Older Edge models

    Motorola Moto series

    • Motorola Moto G84
    • Motorola Moto G73
    • Motorola Moto G54
    • Motorola Moto G53
    • Motorola Moto G54 Power
    • Motorola Moto G23
    • Motorola Moto G14
    • Motorola Moto G13
    • Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)
    • Motorola Moto G Stylus (2023)
    • Motorola Moto G (2023)
    • Motorola Moto G Power 5G
    • Motorola Moto X40
    • Older Moto models

    Motorola has not yet released an official list of Android 15-supported devices. The above list is an unofficial one, prepared based on each smartphone’s software update policy.

    Software Policy and Updates

    Motorola’s software update policy has not been particularly strong. However, the brand has recently updated its policy to better compete with Samsung, OnePlus, and others. Most high-end Motorola phones now qualify for three OS updates.

    Select mid-range Motorola phones also receive three Android updates, whereas the budget Moto series only gets one significant upgrade. In contrast, Samsung and Google have updated their policies to offer seven years of Android updates for their flagship phones.

    When Will Motorola Start Rolling Out Android 15?

    As of July 2024, Motorola has not yet completed its Android 14 rollout. This pattern of delay is consistent each year. Despite software updates being a weak point for Motorola, there has been no significant effort to improve in this area.

    Android 15 is currently in the platform stability phase, the final development stage before the stable version is released. Although the official timeline doesn’t specify a release date, speculation suggests it will launch alongside the Pixel 9 series at the Made by Google event on August 13th. Last year, Android 14 was released in October, so the stable version of Android 15 is likely to be available by October.

    Motorola has not announced an Android 15 beta program for any of its phones, and it is not expected to do so until later this year. The stable update is likely to start rolling out in late December or early 2025.

    When the update does arrive, the Razr 40 and Edge 50 series will probably be among the first Motorola phones to receive Android 15, followed by other models.

    Android 15: What to Expect?

    Recent iterations, Android 13 and Android 14, have not been particularly impressive in terms of new features. However, Android 15 promises a range of new features and enhancements, including AI capabilities.

    One of the major upgrades in Android 15 is support for satellite connectivity. This allows SMS, MMS, and preloaded RCS apps to use satellite connectivity for sending and receiving texts even when cell towers are not nearby.

    Google has significantly improved smartphone location tracking. The new Find My Device feature can utilize a network of over a billion Android devices to help locate lost devices. Android 15 enhances this further with a Theft Detection Lock feature.

    If someone steals your Android device, it will automatically detect the motion and lock itself. The device will require logging into the same Google account to set up after a factory reset, otherwise, it won’t work.

    Android 15 also introduces a “Private Space” feature for protecting files and apps you want to keep secret. You can set a different lock factor for your Private Space and use a different Google account. Everything in your Private Space remains hidden from other users. Apps opened in this space won’t appear in recent apps, and all downloads will stay there. This is particularly useful for protecting financial and other critical apps.

    Another useful feature in Android 15 is app pairs. Users will be able to create app pairs to quickly open favorite apps in split-screen mode. Shortcuts for favorite app combos can also be created. This feature will be available only on wide-screen devices like tablets and foldables.

    The new OS also brings partial screen sharing, allowing users to share or record a single app instead of the entire screen. This ensures that others can’t see other apps on your device.

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  • TSMC Hits Trillion-Dollar Valuation, Boosted by AI Revolution

    TSMC Hits Trillion-Dollar Valuation, Boosted by AI Revolution

    The rise of artificial intelligence is significantly impacting Wall Street, evidenced by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) recently achieving the remarkable milestone of joining the elite trillion-dollar market capitalization club. This achievement places TSMC among the world’s top technology firms and underscores the increasing significance of the semiconductor industry.

    TSMC’s Market Surge

    TSMC’s market capitalization briefly exceeded that of Tesla, making it the seventh most valuable tech company globally. The company’s shares have seen a notable increase, trading above the 50-day moving average of $158.00 and hitting a new 52-week high of $192.80. Year-to-date, TSMC shares have surged nearly 80%.

    Growth of the Semiconductor Industry

    The semiconductor industry has risen to prominence, driven by the growing demand for chips used in AI technologies. Global semiconductor sales are forecasted to reach $611.2 billion in 2024, with a projected 16% sales increase for that year, followed by a 12.5% increase in 2025. This surge in demand is primarily due to advancements in generative AI, which require advanced and powerful chips.

    The U.S. government has acknowledged the vital role of semiconductors in the contemporary economy, providing significant financial support to boost domestic chip production. The Biden administration has allocated tens of billions of dollars for building chip factories in the U.S., aiming to enhance technological infrastructure and lessen dependence on foreign manufacturers.

    Analyst Insights and Investor Considerations

    Analysts have revised their price targets for TSMC ahead of its second-quarter earnings report, with Morgan Stanley predicting an increase in TSMC’s full-year sales forecast. TSMC’s effective “hunger marketing” strategy indicates tight foundry supply in 2025, encouraging customers to recognize the company's value. The expected rise in wafer prices due to AI advancements further bolsters TSMC’s position. For investors, key factors to consider include revenue growth, profitability, and valuation relative to peers.

    The AI boom is transforming Wall Street, with TSMC’s entry into the trillion-dollar club marking a significant milestone. The growth of the semiconductor industry, driven by AI demand, underscores the crucial role of companies like TSMC and Nvidia in the global market.

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  • TSMC 2nm Chip Trial Production Starting Sooner Than Expected

    TSMC 2nm Chip Trial Production Starting Sooner Than Expected

    TSMC will commence the trial production of 2nm chips next week, which will initially be used by Apple for the iPhone 17 series and other Apple products. Interestingly, this trial production is starting much earlier than anticipated.

    Initially, the trial production was slated to begin in Q4 (in October or later). This early start is seen as an effort to accelerate production to ensure a stable yield before moving to mass production. For context, trial production is where the company tests out the production line processes that will be used later for mass production.

    TSMC’s 2nm Fabrication Process

    TSMC first showcased its 2nm fabrication process in December last year. The trial production will take place at TSMC’s Baoshan plant in northern Taiwan. The necessary equipment for 2nm production has already been delivered and installed at the Baoshan plant since the second quarter.

    The iPhone 15 Pro models feature the A17 Pro chipset, made using TSMC’s 3nm process. This process allows more transistors to be packed into a smaller space, thereby enhancing performance and efficiency compared to its predecessor. Apple’s M4 chip, which recently launched with the new iPad Pro, uses an advanced 3nm fabrication process.

    Challenges and Future Plans

    Achieving a sufficient yield rate (the percentage of chips that pass quality-control checks) is typically one of the biggest hurdles for new process nodes. For instance, TSMC’s 3nm chips had a yield rate of around 50% back in April last year.

    Apple was previously believed to have reserved the entire production capacity of TSMC’s 3nm chips for the A17 Pro and M3 chip. It may do the same with TSMC for the 2nm production capacity. A report from May last year indicated that the company was working on securing all the production capacity of 2nm chips.

    TSMC plans to use gate all around (GAA) technology starting with the 2nm processes, which will enhance performance and power efficiency. Additionally, TSMC aims to introduce back-side power supply (BSPR) technology with the 2nm chips.

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  • OnePlus Developing Mid-Range Phone with Massive Battery

    OnePlus Developing Mid-Range Phone with Massive Battery

    OnePlus has recently introduced the Nord CE 4 Lite and is preparing to launch the Nord 4. Alongside these, another mid-range smartphone is reportedly in development, featuring an enormous battery. Previously, OnePlus has surpassed the 6,000mAh battery capacity, but now the company might be unveiling a device powered by a 7,000mAh battery.

    OnePlus Phone with a Massive 7,000mAh Battery

    Upcoming Nord 4

    The information comes from the well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, who shared the details on Weibo, a Chinese microblogging platform. According to the leak, the Ouga Group is developing a 7,000mAh battery. For context, the Ouga Group is the joint research and development lab of OnePlus and Oppo. The largest battery seen in a OnePlus device so far was in the Ace 3 Pro model, which featured a 6,100mAh battery.

    However, this new phone with the large battery isn't part of the flagship or flagship killer lineup. Instead, it will be a mid-range device. Digital Chat Station also mentioned that this phone is in the early stages of development, indicating that its launch is still some time away. Given that it is a mid-range model, it is speculated to belong to the popular Nord series, although this hasn't been confirmed yet.

    The tipster also mentioned that Ouga is working on another smartphone with a 6,500mAh battery. This model is expected to use innovative battery technology that incorporates silicon materials. The Glacier Battery technology features a silicon-carbon anode, providing 23.1 percent higher energy density compared to graphite batteries. This means the battery can be more compact while offering the same capacity. This is all the information available at the moment, so stay tuned for more updates.

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  • Redmi K70 Ultra Release Confirmed for This Month

    Redmi K70 Ultra Release Confirmed for This Month

    Redmi has officially revealed that the Redmi K70 Ultra will debut this month. Pre-orders are now live, and each pre-order includes a Redmi Smart Band 2. The K70 Ultra is touted as the brand's "most perfect work to date."

    Redmi Emphasizes Gaming Performance

    To deliver an exceptional gaming experience, Redmi has enhanced three key areas: overall performance, the balance between frame rate and energy efficiency, and a proprietary super-frame super-resolution function. This likely involves rendering games at a lower resolution and then upscaling them to the device's native resolution, thus enhancing the gaming experience without significantly taxing system resources.

    The teaser indicates the phone comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset and employs the C8+ luminous material, a joint development by Xiaomi and TCL Huaxing. This material reportedly offers the highest luminous efficiency in the industry and extends pixel life by over 100%. Wang Teng, Xiaomi China's Vice President of Marketing and General Manager of the Redmi brand, confirmed that the Redmi K70 Ultra would be the first to feature this new generation 1.5K display, which is claimed to provide the best eye protection in the industry.

    Enhanced Display and Performance

    In addition to improved panel quality, the display borders are expected to be slimmer than those of its predecessor.

    Previous leaks reveal that the phone scores 2242 points in Geekbench's single-core test and 7237 points in the multi-core test. It achieves a 2.22 million score on AnTuTu and can run "Genshin Impact" in 1.5K + 120Hz mode. Besides the Dimensity 9300+, the device also includes an independent graphics chip.

    Robust Specifications

    The phone features a 5500mAh battery and supports 120W fast charging. Regarding its build and design, it may come with a metal middle frame and a glass back. Like its predecessor, the phone will have an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, similar to the Redmi K60 Ultra.

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  • Oppo Find X8 Rumors – Flat Display, Bigger Telephoto Sensor

    Oppo Find X8 Rumors – Flat Display, Bigger Telephoto Sensor

    Oppo is anticipated to introduce the Find X8 series in the fourth quarter of this year. A rumor suggests that the Oppo Find X8 may feature the Dimensity 9400 chipset. It also implies that the phone might sport a 1.5K flat display, replacing the curved screen of its predecessor. Additionally, the device is expected to include a larger main sensor from Sony.

    Display and Design Changes

    The speculation comes from the reputable Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station. Although he didn't specify the model name, he revealed that the flagship powered by the Dimensity 9400 will feature a 6.5″ 1.5K display with a 120Hz refresh rate. He also noted that the screen is sourced from a Chinese display manufacturer. The current prototype lacks a quad-curved design on the front, indicating that the phone might have a flat display, a significant departure from the Oppo Find X7’s design.

    Camera Specifications

    In terms of camera capabilities, the phone is expected to feature three lenses on the back: a 50MP Sony IMX9 series main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 3x periscope telephoto lens. The large circular camera system is also expected to carry Hasselblad branding. Although Digital Chat Station didn’t confirm the model name in his post, comments speculate that it will be the Oppo Find X8. The tipster's information aligns with most previous leaks about the device.

    Prototype and Additional Details

    Responding to comments, the tipster mentioned that the current prototype features a “pure straight screen” with no quad-curved glass. A previous report indicated that the 3x periscope telephoto module is expected to use the IMX882 (1/1.95 inches) sensor. This telephoto module may have an equivalent focal length of 73mm and an aperture of f/2.65. The same sensor is also expected to be used in the Realme 13 Pro+ and OnePlus 13 for their telephoto lenses.

    It has been previously reported that the Oppo Find X8 series could include a total of three models, which is one more than the Find X7 series. Specifically, there will be an Oppo Find X8 Pro, and an Oppo Find X8 Ultra is expected to be released separately in the first quarter of 2025, following a trend similar to recent Xiaomi flagships.

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