Category: All News

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Boosts Performance and Reduces Loading Times

    Nintendo Switch 2 Boosts Performance and Reduces Loading Times

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 offers improved performance for many games from the original Switch through a mix of hardware compatibility and emulation.
    2. Games like Batman Arkham Knight and The Witcher 3 run smoothly at 30 frames per second on the Switch 2, compared to lower frame rates on the original Switch.
    3. Dragon Quest Builders 2 achieves 60 frames per second on the Switch 2, a significant upgrade from its original performance on the first Switch.
    4. Popular titles such as Bayonetta 3, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Super Mario RPG perform at 60 frames per second on the Switch 2.
    5. Improved loading times are noted on the Switch 2, primarily due to the processor, even for games tested on cartridges that don’t utilize the faster flash storage.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 works well with many, but not all, games that came out for the first Nintendo Switch. Nintendo uses a mix of hardware compatibility and emulation to provide better performance than just relying on software emulation alone.

    Performance Boost

    As shown in the video from Digital Foundry below, this method really helps, especially for games that had issues on the original Nintendo Switch. For instance, Batman Arkham Knight can drop to a low of 15 fps in some scenes, which is half of the intended 30 frames per second. In fact, some frames can be on the screen for up to 180 milliseconds (0.18 seconds), causing significant stuttering.

    Smooth Gameplay

    On the Nintendo Switch 2, these issues are resolved, as the game runs smoothly at 30 frames per second on the new device. However, if players don’t get an update, they will still have to deal with the low-resolution textures from the original Switch version, even on the quicker console.

    The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt tells a similar tale, running at a steady 30 frames per second on the Nintendo Switch 2, while the first version of the Switch could only manage about 20 fps during tough scenes. Additionally, the resolution has noticeably improved on Switch 2, thanks to dynamic resolution which lowers the quality when frame rates drop to keep performance stable.

    Game Testing Insights

    The YouTube channel GVG looked at several other Switch games on the Nintendo Switch 2 and provided some intriguing findings. For example, Dragon Quest Builders 2 runs smoothly at 60 frames per second on the Nintendo Switch 2, in contrast to the 20 to 40 fps it hit on the original Switch. Even the more challenging online levels, which barely reached over 10 fps on the first Switch, now run at nearly 30 frames per second on the Switch 2.

    Other titles like Bayonetta 3, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Super Mario RPG, and Hyrule Warriors also perform at a fluid 60 frames per second on the Switch 2. Meanwhile, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild maintains a steady frame rate of 30 fps without needing to upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition. The video also looks at loading times, revealing some very encouraging results.

    The games marked with a star were tested using a game cartridge, so they don’t take advantage of the console’s faster flash storage. Therefore, the improved loading times in these cases are likely mostly due to the processor.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Boosts Performance and Reduces Loading Times
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  • Vivo X Fold5: Superior Dust & Water Resistance vs. Oppo Find N5, Galaxy Z Fold6

    Vivo X Fold5: Superior Dust & Water Resistance vs. Oppo Find N5, Galaxy Z Fold6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android manufacturers are improving the durability of foldable devices, making them more sturdy like traditional smartphones.
    2. Models like Oppo Find N5, X Fold3 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Galaxy Z Fold6 have high water resistance ratings (8 or 9) but limited solid particle protection.
    3. The upcoming Vivo X Fold5 will enhance solid particle protection to level 5, meaning it will be ‘dust protected’ but not completely ‘dust tight.’
    4. The X Fold5 claims waterproofing rated at IPX9 and IPX9+, allowing it to be folded 1,000 times while submerged in water without damage.
    5. Vivo has not announced the release date for the X Fold5 despite promoting its features and new color option.

    In the last few years, Android manufacturers have been steadily improving the durability of their foldable devices, bringing them closer to the sturdiness of traditional candybar smartphones. Once criticized for their fragility, these foldables have now advanced to the point where many of them boast water resistance similar to that of the latest flagship models.

    Impressive Specifications

    Take the Oppo Find N5, X Fold3 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Galaxy Z Fold6 (currently $1,073 – refurbished on Amazon) as examples; these models have received ratings of 8 or 9 for liquid ingress protection. However, only Samsung’s foldable devices have been given any rating for solid particle protection. Even so, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition can only fend off solid particles that are 1 mm or bigger.

    Upcoming Improvements

    Vivo’s Han Bo Xiao has indicated that the new X Fold5 will enhance solid particle protection to a level of 5. This means it will be labeled as ‘dust protected’, but not completely ‘dust tight’. To clarify, some dust and tiny debris might get inside the X Fold5, but it shouldn’t affect how the device works regularly.

    Water Resistance Claims

    Moreover, Han Bo Xiao also noted that the X Fold5 offers waterproofing rated at IPX9 and IPX9+. Although this isn’t an official standard, Vivo asserts that the IPX9+ rating guarantees that the X Fold5 can be folded 1,000 times while submerged in water up to 1 meter deep without incurring any damages. To promote this, the company has released a brief promotional video, which we’ve included above. This video showcases the device and introduces Vivo’s new green color option. However, the release date of the X Fold5 remains a mystery, as Vivo hasn’t revealed any details yet.

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    Vivo X Fold5: Superior Dust & Water Resistance vs. Oppo Find N5, Galaxy Z Fold6

     

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  • Samsung EM32DX: 32-Inch Color E-Ink Display with Long Battery Life

    Samsung EM32DX: 32-Inch Color E-Ink Display with Long Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung EM32DX features an e-ink panel, capable of displaying 54,600 colors, but has a lower QHD resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels compared to typical 4K displays.
    2. It has a starting price of $1,200, with discounts available, like $1,166 at PCNation.
    3. The built-in battery can last up to 500 days with infrequent content updates and is chargeable via a power bank.
    4. The display is only 0.7 inches thick, making it suitable for schedules or advertisements, and can be managed via WiFi and a smartphone.
    5. The screen remains readable without a backlight as long as there is sufficient ambient light.

    We’ve talked about the Samsung EM32DX before, and it’s now up for grabs at several online stores, some of which cater to everyday shoppers. The starting price at Samsung’s official business site is $1,200, but you can find it for $1,166 at PCNation, which is a nice discount. These prices seem steep for a 31.5-inch display since the EM32DX isn’t your average IPS or OLED monitor; it features an e-ink panel instead.

    Display Features

    The E Ink Spectra 6 Color panel is capable of showing 54,600 colors thanks to dithering, although they might not be overly bright. Additionally, the QHD resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels is quite lower than the typical 4K displays you’d expect in this price category.

    Battery Life

    On the bright side, the EM32DX has some clear benefits. It includes a built-in battery that can last as long as 500 days if the content is refreshed just once every three days. Even with more frequent updates, it should still hold up for several months. The 4,600mAh battery can probably be charged using a power bank, so you won’t need a power cord.

    Design and Usability

    The Samsung display measures only 0.7 inches in thickness, making it perfect for displaying schedules or advertisements. You can easily manage the electronic sign via WiFi and a smartphone. Finally, the screen remains readable without a backlight, provided there’s enough ambient light available.

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  • RedMagic Launches New Gaming Tablet with Faster Charging and Bigger Battery

    RedMagic Launches New Gaming Tablet with Faster Charging and Bigger Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Gaming Tablet 3 Pro features an OLED screen that flickers at 5,280 Hz, certified as ‘eye-friendly’ by SGS.
    2. It has an 8,200 mAh battery and supports 80 W wired charging, surpassing competitors in both capacity and speed.
    3. The tablet is set to launch on June 11, but a global release date has not yet been announced.
    4. RedMagic aims to minimize eye strain and enhance user experience with its latest gaming tablet.
    5. The Gaming Tablet 3 Pro is anticipated to compete strongly in the gaming tablet market.

    Unfortunately, the Gaming Tablet 3 Pro comes with an OLED screen that can lead to pulse-width modulation (PWM), which might cause eye discomfort and headaches for some users. Nonetheless, RedMagic has announced that the OLED display in its newest gaming tablet will flicker at 5,280 Hz, a significantly higher rate compared to most OLED devices. Because of this, RedMagic asserts that the Gaming Tablet 3 Pro has been certified by SGS as having an ‘eye-friendly’ screen.

    Battery and Charging Features

    RedMagic has also shared details regarding the tablet’s battery and charging features. In various posts on Weibo, the company stated that the Gaming Tablet 3 Pro is set to launch on June 11, equipped with an 8,200 mAh battery and capable of 80 W wired charging. This means that RedMagic’s latest tablet will surpass the current Legion Y700 in both battery capacity and charging speed. However, RedMagic has yet to announce any plans for a global release, but recent product launches suggest that it may become available worldwide sometime later this year.

    Conclusion

    With these specifications and features, the Gaming Tablet 3 Pro aims to provide a better user experience, minimizing eye strain while offering impressive battery performance. Users are eagerly awaiting its release to see how it stacks up against competitors in the gaming tablet market.

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    RedMagic Launches New Gaming Tablet with Faster Charging and Bigger BatteryRedMagic Launches New Gaming Tablet with Faster Charging and Bigger BatteryRedMagic Launches New Gaming Tablet with Faster Charging and Bigger Battery

     

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  • CrowPi 3: Crowdfunding Raspberry Pi 5 AI Learning Station

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crowdfunding Campaign: The CrowPi 3 is currently being crowdfunded by Elecrow, with a pledge of approximately $159 for early backers, excluding the Raspberry Pi 5.

    2. Portable Design: The CrowPi 3 is designed for portability, compatible with Raspberry Pi 5, Arduino Nano, and other single-board computers, and includes a 4.3-inch IPS screen.

    3. Comprehensive Kits: It comes with a “Basic Accessories Kit” (IR remote, SD card, card reader, RFID tags) and an “Expansion Accessories Kit” (main board, gaming controllers, NFC tags).

    4. Versatile Connectivity: Users can connect external sensors and actuators easily, with built-in modules like a smaller display and ultrasonic sensors for various projects.

    5. Focus on Learning: The CrowPi 3 aims to enhance the learning and development experience for makers and developers, particularly in AI applications.

    Some readers might already know about CrowPi and its maker, Elecrow, who is currently running a crowdfunding campaign for the new CrowPi 3 development and learning platform. Those who support the campaign can secure a unit for a pledge of approximately $159, with the first units expected to ship in August. This amount covers the platform and essential sensors and components, but it does not include the Raspberry Pi 5. As with most preorders, there are financial risks involved, though these are likely minimal this time since Elecrow is a well-established company with a good track record in crowdfunding.

    Portable Learning Tool

    Moving on, the CrowPi 3 is designed to be portable and suitable for use on the go. It is made for a Raspberry Pi and works with the latest Raspberry Pi 5 (available from $75 on Amazon), as well as the Arduino Nano and various other single-board computers. Additionally, this innovative AI station boasts a 4.3-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. The so-called “Basic Accessories Kit” provides an IR remote, an SD card loaded with the operating system, a card reader, and RFID tags. Moreover, the “Expansion Accessories Kit” includes the main board, two gaming controllers, and NFC tags. The system also features built-in speakers and a camera, weighing in at 2.4 lbs.

    Versatile Connectivity

    You can easily connect external sensors and actuators through a breadboard. However, there are also various modules located directly on the board, such as a smaller display and ultrasonic sensors. The Elecrow CrowPi 3 is versatile enough to be used in many projects, including AI applications like object recognition, just to give one example.

    Crowdfunding Future

    The CrowPi 3 represents an exciting opportunity for makers and developers alike. With its combination of portability, compatibility, and built-in features, it aims to provide a comprehensive learning and development experience for all users.

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  • Nintendo to Offer Free Joy-Con Replacement for Stick Drift Issues

    Nintendo to Offer Free Joy-Con Replacement for Stick Drift Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. The absence of Hall effect sensors in Switch 2 Joy-Cons raises doubts about their reliability and potential for stick drift.
    2. Nintendo claims the Switch 2 Joy-Cons will be more durable, but early teardowns show minimal design changes from previous models.
    3. Warranty policies for Switch 2 Joy-Cons vary by region, with U.S. gamers having standard options for dealing with defects.
    4. It’s uncertain if Nintendo will extend its previous leniency on replacements for Joy-Cons 2 after the warranty period ends.
    5. With higher repair costs and prices for Switch 2 Joy-Cons, gamers may seek alternatives like affordable Hall effect controllers from other brands.

    The absence of Hall effect sensors in the Switch 2 Joy-Cons has led gamers to doubt their dependability. Stick drift is a common problem found in controllers from Xbox and PlayStation, both in regular and premium models. However, the original Switch accessories seem to show more signs of wear over time. Luckily, the company is able to replace the latest Joy-Cons at no charge.

    Promises of Durability

    Nintendo has claimed that the larger Joy-Cons of the Switch 2 will be tougher. Yet, early teardowns suggest that the analog stick design hasn’t really changed much. A Reddit user named moshi_yo posted some images of the internal parts, which feature Alps potentiometers. These components are known to degrade over time, leading to erratic gameplay movements. In contrast, Hall effect controllers make use of magnetic sensors that can detect inputs without as much wear on the parts.

    Warranty Policies vary

    Just like the first Switch, the warranty rules differ based on where the player lives. Nintendeal pointed out that gamers in the U.S. have the usual options to deal with defective Switch 2 Joy-Cons. The Nintendo Support Center has grouped both generations of the controllers together. Once owners explain their issues, Nintendo is expected to send a free shipping label for sending back the Joy-Cons.

    Uncertainty for Replacement Policies

    When the initial Switch controllers had issues with stick drift, Nintendo provided replacements even after the 12-month warranty had expired. It’s uncertain if this policy will extend to Joy-Cons 2 in the United States and Latin America. Regardless, Nintendo might apply the same leniency with its new accessories.

    Stick drift poses a bigger challenge for the Joy-Cons 2 since they come at a higher price than the older models. Repair costs for the Switch 2 and its accessories are also steeper. Without extended warranty coverage, gamers might look for other options. Although replicating the new Joy-Cons is tough, PowerA has already started selling an affordable Hall effect controller for handheld use.

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    Nintendo to Offer Free Joy-Con Replacement for Stick Drift IssuesNintendo to Offer Free Joy-Con Replacement for Stick Drift Issues

     

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  • Vivo Y300c: Budget Phone with 12GB RAM, 120Hz AMOLED, 6500mAh

    Vivo Y300c: Budget Phone with 12GB RAM, 120Hz AMOLED, 6500mAh

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo Y300c will be available in three colors and two storage options (256GB or 512GB), with 12GB of RAM.
    2. It features a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC with a built-in 5G modem and a 6.77-inch AMOLED display (2392 x 1080 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate).
    3. The smartphone has a 6,500mAh battery with 44W fast charging and reverse charging capability.
    4. The main camera has a 50MP resolution, supported by a 2MP lens for bokeh effects, while the front camera is 8MP.
    5. The Y300c is priced at approximately $195 in China, with no confirmation on international availability.

    Vivo is set to unveil its latest smartphone, known as the Y300c. This device will come in three distinct colors, giving customers a variety of options. Additionally, buyers will have the choice between two storage configurations. The smartphone consistently includes 12GB of RAM, but the internal storage is available in either 256GB or 512GB.

    Performance Features

    Furthermore, the affordable smartphone is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC. This processor includes a built-in 5G modem, although it isn’t recognized for being a particularly high-speed mobile chip. The AMOLED display spans 6.77 inches and features a resolution of 2392 x 1080 pixels, with a refresh rate that can reach up to 120Hz. When gaming, the touchscreen sampling rate can be boosted to 300Hz.

    Battery and Camera Capabilities

    On top of that, the Y300c houses a battery with a standard capacity of 6,500mAh and allows for fast charging at 44 watts. Thanks to its reverse charging capability, users can utilize the Vivo smartphone to power devices like headphones. The main camera boasts a resolution of 50 megapixels and is complemented by a 2MP lens for creating bokeh effects.

    In terms of the front camera, it has an 8MP resolution, and the Android device accommodates two SIM cards at the same time. The Y300c is presently offered in China for about $195. It remains uncertain whether Vivo plans to release this phone internationally. For those looking for similarly budget-friendly options, phones like the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G are available on Amazon for under $200 at the moment.

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    Vivo Y300c: Budget Phone with 12GB RAM, 120Hz AMOLED, 6500mAhVivo Y300c: Budget Phone with 12GB RAM, 120Hz AMOLED, 6500mAh

     

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  • Curved Display Smartwatch with Large Battery Launches at Half Price

    Curved Display Smartwatch with Large Battery Launches at Half Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Launch: Rogbid has introduced the Titan S smartwatch, featuring a tough, military-inspired design, available in black and silver.

    2. Pricing: The Titan S is currently priced at $39.99, a 50% discount from its suggested retail price of $79.99.

    3. Durability: The smartwatch is MIL-STD 810H certified, indicating it can withstand extreme temperatures and resist drops, along with being water-resistant up to 3 ATM.

    4. Display and Battery: It features a 2.01-inch IPS display and a 400 mAh battery, with up to 10 days of battery life under “normal use.”

    5. Health and Sports Features: The Titan S includes over 100 sports modes, smartphone notifications, and a flashlight, but lacks clarity on how it measures health metrics like heart rate and sleep patterns.

    Rogbid has recently introduced a new smartwatch called the Titan S, designed to be tough and military-inspired. This smartwatch, available in black and silver, is launching with a 50% discount.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Titan S can be bought from Rogbid’s online store for only $39.99, which is half of the suggested retail price of $79.99. However, potential buyers should be cautious, as the RRP might be artificially high, and the discounted price could reflect the true market value. Each color option comes with two types of straps: a stainless steel one (in black and silver) and a silicone strap (in black and orange).

    Specifications and Durability

    As mentioned earlier, the Rogbid Titan S is marketed as a durable, military-grade smartwatch that claims to have MIL-STD 810H certification. This means it’s built to withstand extreme temperatures and is designed to resist drops, among other protective features. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 3 ATM.

    Display and Battery Life

    The casing, made from plastic and metal alloy, encloses a 2.01-inch IPS display with a curved design, making it comfortable for wearers. It is powered by a 400 mAh battery, with Rogbid stating that users can expect up to 10 days of battery life under “normal use,” though what constitutes “normal use” remains vague.

    Moreover, it’s not clear how the smartwatch measures health metrics like heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, and sleep patterns. The Rogbid Titan S also boasts over 100 sports modes, smartphone notifications, and a small flashlight integrated into the side of the crown to complete its feature set.

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    Curved Display Smartwatch with Large Battery Launches at Half Price

     

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  • Buy New Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1CJF & GM-B2100SD-1CJF Now

    Buy New Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1CJF & GM-B2100SD-1CJF Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has released two new full-metal G-Shock watches in Japan: GMW-B5000D-1CJF and GM-B2100SD-1CJF, priced at ¥84,700 (about $588).
    2. The GMW-B5000D-1CJF features a classic square case, Bluetooth connectivity, Multi-Band 6 synchronization, solar charging, and water resistance up to 20-bar.
    3. The GM-B2100SD-1CJF has a trendy octagonal bezel, mixed analog-digital display, Bluetooth syncing, Tough Solar technology, and a polished silver case.
    4. Both watches are compatible with the Casio Watches app for mobile link features, automatic time adjustments, and world time settings.
    5. These full-metal G-Shocks are now available for local purchase in Japan, with the GMW-B5000-D1 also available at a discount on Amazon in the U.S.

    Nearly a month since we received the confirmation of the release date, Casio’s newly introduced full-metal G-Shock watches – the GMW-B5000D-1CJF and the GM-B2100SD-1CJF – are now up for grabs in Japan. They are priced online at ¥84,700 (including tax), which is approximately $588 based on current exchange rates.

    GMW-B5000D-1CJF Details

    The GMW-B5000D-1CJF is the latest addition to the 5000 Series and is inspired by the classic DW-5000C. Featuring the iconic square case, this model is crafted entirely from stainless steel. It includes Bluetooth connectivity, Multi-Band 6 radio synchronization, solar charging capability, and can withstand water pressure up to 20-bar. This watch is a contemporary digital reinterpretation of the original G-Shock, showcasing a red-black dial frame and a blocky display style.

    GM-B2100SD-1CJF Features

    Conversely, the GM-B2100SD-1CJF belongs to the 2100 Series. Being another full-metal model, it boasts the trendy octagonal bezel design that has gained immense popularity recently. It presents a mixed analog-digital display, Bluetooth syncing features, Tough Solar technology, and a screw-lock back. The shiny dial combined with a silver case offers a more polished, nearly industrial appearance compared to the resin GA-B2100 variants.

    Both timepieces offer mobile link compatibility through the Casio Watches app, along with automatic time adjustments and world time settings. Their designs are built to endure shocks while keeping a sleek shape, thanks to an internal fine-resin cushioning system.

    Availability and Purchasing

    These two watches are among the most sought-after full-metal G-Shocks currently available, and with them now in stock, interested buyers have the opportunity to purchase them locally for the first time.

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  • Anbernic Handhelds Get AI Features for Real-Time Translation

    Anbernic Handhelds Get AI Features for Real-Time Translation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has released an AI application specifically for its handheld gaming devices running on Android.
    2. The AI features include an AI translator that can translate on-screen text in games and emulators.
    3. A chatbot is available to help players with in-game questions and obstacles.
    4. Additional AI functions include image creation and photo editing tools, such as colourisation and manipulation.
    5. Users need to update their devices via an over-the-air package to access the new AI features.

    Anbernic has made it official with the release of their own AI application. However, it is very unlikely that it uses a self-trained AI model. This Anbernic AI is only for the company’s handheld gaming devices that run on Android, specifically the RG Cube, RG 406V, RG 406H, and RG556. To use the AI features, users will need to update their devices, which is conveniently provided as an over-the-air package.

    AI Translator Feature

    In a video from Anbernic, one notable feature shown is the AI translator, which can be activated in games or emulators to translate text that appears on the screen. This could be especially helpful in games that have never been localised, and it might even work with strange scripts that players might not be familiar with.

    Chatbot and More

    Additionally, the AI app comes with a chatbot that is meant to give useful answers to players’ questions. Gamers can access this feature during their playtime through a sidebar, which could help them find solutions to any in-game obstacles they face. Anbernic also pointed out other functions like AI image creation and photo editing tools, which include colourisation, manipulation, and stylisation. The AI assistant is also said to be capable of tackling complex issues, like solving math equations.

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