Category: Computers

  • Chuwi Unveils Thin and Light Convertible Laptop with 2K Touchscreen

    Chuwi Unveils Thin and Light Convertible Laptop with 2K Touchscreen

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Chuwi MiniBook X features an Intel N150 processor, which is modern but not very powerful.
    2. It comes with 12 GB of DDR5 RAM and 512 GB of user-replaceable storage.
    3. The laptop has a compact design, measuring 11 mm thick and weighing 920 g, with a 10.51-inch IPS touchscreen display.
    4. It includes a nearly 29 Wh battery with 36-watt USB-C charging and two USB-C ports, but no USB-A port.
    5. The MiniBook X is priced at $352, currently discounted to about $314 until May 7, 2025.


    The Chuwi MiniBook X may sound familiar to some. This brand has recently introduced a new version of its small convertible laptop, now featuring an Intel N150 processor. Although the N150 is a modern chip, it lacks significant power. Still, this laptop is equipped with a respectable 12 GB of DDR5 RAM and 512 GB of storage. According to the specifications provided, the SSD can be replaced by the user.

    Compact Design

    With a thickness of merely 11 mm (0.43 in) and a weight of 920 g (2.03 lb), this sleek and lightweight convertible laptop boasts hinges that allow the screen to fold back behind the keyboard, turning it into a tablet. The touchscreen sports a 10.51-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The MiniBook X is powered by a battery with a capacity of nearly 29 Wh and can charge at a maximum of 36 watts using USB-C. It includes two USB-C ports, both capable of video output. However, it lacks a USB-A port, though it does have a 3.5 mm audio jack. The MiniBook X N150 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home and can be purchased directly from Chuwi for $352. As part of a current promotion that ends on May 7, 2025, the price is discounted to approximately $314. It’s advisable for potential buyers to check the shipping policies before completing their order.

    Chuwi has made strides with this latest model, providing a blend of portability and functionality.

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  • GMKtec Launches EVO-X2 with AMD Strix Halo and 128GB RAM

    GMKtec Launches EVO-X2 with AMD Strix Halo and 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. GMKtec’s mini-PC, the EVO-X2, powered by AMD’s Strix Halo, will be available on May 20 for $1,399.
    2. The EVO-X2 features 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, with an option to double the RAM for an additional $400.
    3. The device is equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, offering 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon RX 8060S integrated GPU.
    4. Connectivity options include four video outputs, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, five USB Type-A ports, Bluetooth 5.4, and Wi-Fi 7.
    5. The EVO-X2 lacks OCuLink support for external graphics cards but provides dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots and eight SO-DIMM slots for RAM expansion.


    GMKtec has begun offering its first mini-PC powered by AMD’s Strix Halo on Amazon. In recent months, various companies have expressed plans to launch desktops utilizing Strix Halo technology. For instance, the Framework Desktop was introduced in February, priced at $1,999, but won’t start shipping until the third quarter of 2025.

    Release Date and Pricing

    On the other hand, GMKtec has announced that the EVO-X2 will be available to consumers starting on May 20. The mini-PC is currently priced at $1,399, featuring 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, after GMKtec began accepting pre-orders on its online store earlier this month. If you need more memory, GMKtec offers an option with double the RAM for an additional $400.

    Specifications Overview

    To summarize, the EVO-X2 is equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, which includes 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon RX 8060S integrated GPU boasting 40 Compute Units (CUs) that utilize the RDNA 3+ architecture. Based on our experience with the recent ROG Flow Z13, the Radeon RX 8060S performs similarly to Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 4070 laptop GPU in both synthetic and gaming tests.

    Connectivity Features

    Consequently, GMKtec has not provided OCuLink support for connecting an external graphics card. Instead, the EVO-X2 features four video outputs, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and five USB Type-A ports. Additionally, the EVO-X2 includes Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, along with dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 slots and eight SO-DIMM slots for LPDDR5X-8000 RAM. For further technical specifications, please check GMKtec’s website.

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  • Minisforum N5 Pro: Compact NAS with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

    Minisforum N5 Pro: Compact NAS with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum has launched the MS-A2 mini workstation with early discounts, replacing the MS-A1 priced at $239.99.
    2. The new N5 and N5 Pro mini-PCs will feature AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and support up to 96 GB of DDR5 EEC SO-DIMM RAM.
    3. Both models will allow for the addition of a discrete GPU via a PCIe x16 slot or OCuLink.
    4. The upcoming NAS devices will include 5 Gbps and 10 Gbps LAN ports, five drive slots, and dual rear fans operating at around 42 dB.
    5. The N5 and N5 Pro are expected to launch in June, with a 30% discount available for users who sign up on the Minisforum website.


    Minisforum has just launched the MS-A2 mini workstation, offering early discounts to replace the MS-A1, which is currently priced at $239.99 on Amazon. In addition, the company has revealed some preliminary details about a new line of network attached storage (NAS) devices slated for release later this season. The Minisforum N5 and N5 Pro are expected to be quite powerful mini-PCs.

    Specifications and Performance

    Minisforum has confirmed that the N5 and N5 Pro will come equipped with up to AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and can support up to 96 GB of DDR5 EEC SO-DIMM RAM, with 128 GB being “unofficially” possible. A representative from the company mentioned in a video that there is an option to add a discrete GPU through a PCIe x16 slot (PCIe 4.0 x4) or OCuLink.

    Features and Design

    The new NAS from Minisforum includes 5 Gbps (RTL8126) and 10 Gbps (AQC113) LAN ports, along with five drive slots in a compact 199 × 202 × 252 mm chassis. The device is designed with dual 92 mm rear fans that should operate at around 42 dB, even when under maximum load. Furthermore, Minisforum has stated that the N5 and N5 Pro will be compatible with various operating systems such as FreeBSD, TruNAS, and Unraid, among others.

    Release Information

    Currently, pricing and availability details are still unspecified. However, Minisforum has indicated that the N5 and N5 Pro are expected to launch in June. By providing an email address on the company’s website, users may also receive a 30% discount coupon before the official release.

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  • Asus V16: Affordable Gaming Laptop with RTX 50 Series GPUs

    Asus V16: Affordable Gaming Laptop with RTX 50 Series GPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus introduced an upgraded version of the V16 laptop, now featuring the GeForce RTX 5060 GPU.
    2. The RTX 5060 shows an 18% performance improvement over the RTX 4060, making it a better choice for gaming.
    3. Other specs, such as the 16-inch FHD 144 Hz display and Intel Core 200 processors, remain unchanged.
    4. Previous reviews noted design flaws and performance issues with the base model, but the new GPU will significantly enhance gaming performance.
    5. The new V16 (V3607) is expected to launch around May, coinciding with other RTX 5060 laptops.


    Earlier last year, Asus introduced a completely fresh line of laptops under the V brand. The Asus V16 was named this way to mark it as a budget-friendly option. Now, Asus has revealed a new upgraded version that introduces significant improvements. The latest Asus V16 (V3607) can now be equipped with a GeForce RTX 5060 laptop GPU.

    Performance Boost

    Nvidia recently launched this GPU, and a new listing on Geekbench indicates it performs about 18% better than the GeForce RTX 4060 laptop. This enhancement alone should make it a superior gaming device compared to its predecessors powered by the RTX 4050 and 3050. Other specifications, like the 16-inch FHD 144 Hz LCD display and Intel Core 200 processors, remain unchanged.

    Review Insights

    In our comprehensive review of the Asus V16, we examined the model featuring an Intel Core 7 240H and GeForce RTX 3050. Despite the unimpressive GPU, the laptop faced several challenges, including a basic plastic design, a tendency to collect fingerprints, and a somewhat underwhelming processor. While the new GPU may not resolve all these issues, it will definitely enhance gaming performance significantly, thanks to DLSS 4.0 and other advancements introduced by Blackwell.

    Availability Timeline

    Asus has not confirmed the exact launch date for the new V16 (V3607), but it is expected to be available in stores around May. This timing aligns with when other RTX 5060 laptops are anticipated to become available on the market.

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  • Dell Introduces 14 Plus Notebooks with AMD Krackan Point APUs from $800

    Dell Introduces 14 Plus Notebooks with AMD Krackan Point APUs from $800

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dell launched its revamped Plus series of 14-inch laptops, initially featuring Intel options, with prices starting over $1,000, before introducing AMD models at lower prices.
    2. The new non-convertible AMD model starts at $800 and includes an AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 APU with a total of 12 threads and speeds up to 4.8 GHz.
    3. Base configuration features 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 512 GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, with upgrade options available for more powerful configurations.
    4. AMD models have differences from Intel counterparts, including lower display resolution (1920 x 1200), fewer ports, and slightly slower RAM.
    5. Key features of the AMD versions include a 1080p webcam, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, a fingerprint sensor, a 64 Wh battery lasting at least 12 hours, and a slim chassis weighing 3.35 lbs.


    Last month, Dell launched its revamped Plus series of 14-inch laptops. Initially, only Intel options were available, powered by Lunar Lake processors, with prices starting just over $1,000. Just a few weeks later, the company broadened its range by adding AMD’s latest “Krackan Point” APUs, lowering the entry price to $850 for a 2-in-1 model. Now, Dell has further reduced the starting price by unveiling a standard non-convertible AMD variant that begins at $800.

    Specifications of the New AMD Model

    The base version of the new non-convertible 14 Plus includes an AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 APU. This APU combines a CPU cluster with three full Zen 5 cores and three Zen 5c efficient cores, providing a total of 12 threads, which can reach speeds of up to 4.8 GHz. It also comes with a 4-core Radeon 840M iGPU based on RDNA3 architecture, alongside an upgraded NPU offering 50 TOPS processing power, bringing the overall APU performance to 59 TOPS.

    Additional Configuration Options

    In the base configuration, you’ll find 16 GB of LPDDR5-7500 RAM and a 512 GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. For those looking for more power, Dell offers a Ryzen AI 7 350 option featuring 8 cores and 14 threads, plus an 8-core Radeon 860M iGPU, bundled with a 1 TB SSD, priced at $950. A configuration with 32 GB of RAM, the more powerful APU, and 1 TB SSD is available for $1,150.

    Differences Between AMD and Intel Models

    As is common with many OEMs, the AMD models have slight variances compared to their Intel counterparts in terms of ports and features. The Intel models, equipped with Lunar Lake processors, offer a 2560 x 1600 IPS display, Thunderbolt 4, and HDMI 2.1 ports. In contrast, the AMD-powered 14 Plus laptops are limited to 1920 x 1200 displays, have two USB-C 10 Gbps ports, and an older HDMI 1.4 video output. Furthermore, the Intel versions are fitted with slightly quicker LPDDR-8533 RAM.

    Aside from that, the AMD versions come with a quality 1080p webcam, speedy Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth connectivity, a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, and a 64 Wh battery that can last at least 12 hours during typical use. The chassis is slim, measuring 0.7 inches (17 mm) thick, and the total weight of the system is just 3.35 lbs (1.52 kg).

    Dell

    via Liliputing

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  • Pantera 2: Ryzen Mini-PC with OLED Display Launches

    Pantera 2: Ryzen Mini-PC with OLED Display Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pantera 2 mini-PC is larger than its predecessor and features more powerful Ryzen processors.
    2. It includes a stylish RGB lid and a “Multi-Function” OLED display for real-time information like time and CPU statistics.
    3. Connectivity options feature a Gigabit LAN port, HDMI 2.1, microSD slot, and dual USB-C ports, with cooling vents for better airflow.
    4. The base model starts at around $569, with upgrade options for RAM and storage, and various budget-friendly models available.
    5. An external GPU called Boostr is offered in special bundles, with the crowdfunding campaign already exceeding its goal.


    XDO Tech has recently introduced their second-generation Pantera 2 mini-PC to the market. This newer model is larger than the previous version and comes equipped with more powerful Ryzen processors.

    Design and Features

    The Pantera 2 maintains its cube shape but now features a stylish RGB lid. One of the standout elements of this model is the “Multi-Function” OLED display on one side, which can display the time, CPU temperatures, and usage statistics.

    Connectivity Options

    In terms of connectivity, it includes a Gigabit LAN port, an HDMI 2.1 port, a microSD card slot, and dual USB-C ports, one of which supports the 4.0 standard. To ensure proper cooling, there are vents located at both the rear and the top of the device.

    Performance and Pricing

    Equipped with AMD’s platforms, the Pantera 2 also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. It has launched on Kickstarter with an entry price of around $569 (4,400 Hong Kong dollars) for the “Apex” version which features the Ryzen 8840U, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD.

    The Apex variant can be upgraded to a 64GB RAM and 4TB storage configuration for roughly $750. Additionally, the mini-PC is offered in various more budget-friendly models such as Neo, Elite, Pro, and Star SKUs featuring the Ryzen 5 6600H, 7 6800H, 7 7735U, and 7 7840U APUs, starting at about $339 during the campaign.

    Graphics and Bundles

    Neither version of the Pantera 2 comes with dedicated graphics, however, XDO Tech has created a new external GPU called Boostr for this model. This GPU is included in “All-Star Pack” bundles, which also feature the Pantera 2 Pro, Star, or Apex, starting at $939. The crowdfunding campaign has just begun and has already surpassed its $2,000 goal with 59 days remaining.

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  • RTX 5060 Laptop Launches on Geekbench, Beats RTX 4060 Performance

    RTX 5060 Laptop Launches on Geekbench, Beats RTX 4060 Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Only RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 laptop graphics cards are currently available, with RTX 5060 performance details recently revealed.
    2. The RTX 5060 scores 109,431 in Geekbench’s OpenCL test with an Intel Core i9-13900HX, and 102,564 with a Core Ultra 9 285H.
    3. The RTX 5060 is potentially 18% faster than the RTX 4060, which averages 93,132 points in the same benchmark.
    4. The RTX 5060 features a higher CUDA core count (3,328 vs. 3,072) and a boost clock of 2.5 GHz, though it hasn’t reached that clock speed in tests.
    5. The RTX 5060 may offer notable upgrades over the RTX 20 or 30 series due to its Ada Lovelace architecture, GDDR 7 VRAM, and AI-powered features.


    While many of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 series desktop graphics cards have been released, the same is not true for their laptop versions. Currently, only the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 are available, and they can be found in a limited selection of high-end laptops. A new listing on Geekbench offers a first look at the RTX 5060 laptop, and the results are not very promising.

    Performance Details

    It powers Colourful laptops that have different setups, one featuring an Intel Core i9-13900HX and the other with a Core Ultra 9 285H. The RTX 5060 laptop achieves a score of 109,431 in Geekbench’s OpenCL test with the first setup, but this score falls to 102,564 with the second. Both models include 32 GB of DDR5 RAM operating at slightly varied speeds.

    Comparison to RTX 4060

    Based on our benchmark data, the RTX 4060 laptop averages about 93,132 points in the Geekbench OpenCL test, making the RTX 5060 potentially 18% faster. Although Geekbench isn’t the best benchmark for GPUs, it provides a rough estimate of performance upgrades. This improvement can be credited to a slightly higher CUDA core count (3,328 compared to 3,072) and a boost clock of 2.5 GHz.

    Potential for Higher Performance

    Interestingly, neither of the RTX 5060 samples mentioned reaches the 2.5 GHz mark, so the actual performance gains might be even better at launch. Coupled with advancements from the Ada Lovelace architecture, GDDR 7 VRAM, and AI-powered features, the RTX 5060 could be a compelling upgrade for those coming from the RTX 20 or 30 series.

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  • Chuwi AuBox: New Mini PC with Powerful AMD Ryzen APU Launches

    Chuwi AuBox: New Mini PC with Powerful AMD Ryzen APU Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Chuwi AuBox mini PC is now available for purchase at a price of $449 on AliExpress.
    2. It is powered by the Ryzen 7 8745HS chip, featuring 8 Zen 4 cores and boost clocks up to 4.9 GHz.
    3. The AuBox can run most AAA games at 1080p on low to medium settings, supported by the Radeon 780M GPU.
    4. It includes a USB4 port for potential external GPU use, along with Bluetooth 5.1 and WiFi 6 connectivity.
    5. The mini PC supports up to 32 GB of RAM and has two M.2 2280 slots for up to 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage.


    Chuwi first announced the AuBox back in February 2025, but details about its price and when it would be available were not shared at that time. Now, shoppers can buy this mini PC, and it’s listed on AliExpress for $449. This price is a bit lower compared to other small PCs that offer similar specifications.

    Performance Specifications

    For anyone who didn’t catch our initial report, the AuBox is powered by the Ryzen 7 8745HS. This chip is quite similar to the 8845HS but lacks the NPU feature. It belongs to AMD’s Hawk Point series, boasting 8 Zen 4 cores and reaching boost clocks of up to 4.9 GHz.

    Gaming Capabilities

    Furthermore, the AuBox comes equipped with the Radeon 780M, allowing it to run most AAA games on low to medium settings at 1080p resolution. A noteworthy feature of this mini PC is its USB4 port, which gives users the option to enhance their gaming experience with an external GPU (like the GMKtec AD-GP1, currently priced at $469.99 on Amazon). However, having an OCuLink port would’ve made it even better suited for such configurations.

    When talking about connectivity options, apart from the USB4 port, the AuBox includes the following:

    Chuwi also asserts that the AuBox has a sophisticated cooling system that lets the mini PC operate at a TDP setting of up to 65 W. Additional features include Bluetooth 5.1, WiFi 6, dual-channel SO-DIMM slots that can accommodate up to 32 GB of RAM, and two M.2 2280 slots allowing for up to 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage. The only configuration available on AliExpress combines the AMD APU with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD.

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  • 2025 ThinkCentre Neo Ultra: New Mac Studio Rival with RTX 5060 Ti

    2025 ThinkCentre Neo Ultra: New Mac Studio Rival with RTX 5060 Ti

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ThinkCentre neo Ultra 2025 launched in China with options for Intel Core Ultra CPUs and a Thunderbolt 4 port.
    2. Users can select a graphics option up to a 16 GB RTX 5060 Ti, with the top model featuring the Intel Core Ultra 9 285 CPU for improved performance.
    3. Entry-level and mid-tier versions will include an Intel Core Ultra 5 and Core Ultra 7 CPUs, respectively, both with 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD.
    4. Pricing starts at CNY 14,999 (~$2058) for the entry-level model and CNY 19,999 (~$2,744) for the mid-tier model, with high-end pricing still undisclosed.
    5. The mini PC has a compact design, a 300 W integrated PSU, and supports discrete NPU cards, with potential global availability to be announced at Computex 2025.


    The 2025 version of the ThinkCentre neo Ultra has officially launched in China. Lenovo presented the updated mini PC at CES 2025, introducing new features like Intel Core Ultra CPU choices and a Thunderbolt 4 port. However, the GPU options remain restricted to the RTX 4060 for the second generation model.

    Enhanced Graphics and Performance

    In the newly introduced Gen 3 ThinkCentre neo Ultra, users can choose up to a 16 GB RTX 5060 Ti with a total graphics power (TGP) of 180 W. Lenovo also announced that the top-tier setup will include the Intel Core Ultra 9 285 desktop CPU, which promises a significant performance improvement compared to the previous generation.

    Configurations and Pricing Details

    For other configurations, Lenovo mentioned that the entry-level version of its updated mini PC, which competes with the Apple Mac Studio, will come with an unspecified Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU and will be paired with the Nvidia RTX 5060. Additionally, there will be a mid-tier option that includes an unspecified Core Ultra 7 CPU alongside the RTX 5060 Ti.

    Both the entry-level and mid-range setups will have 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD (1 TB Crucial P310 currently costs $69.99 on Amazon), but Lenovo hasn’t provided details regarding the memory and storage for the high-end model. The starting price for the ThinkCentre neo Ultra will be CNY 14,999 in China, which translates to roughly $2058. The mid-tier version will be priced at CNY 19,999, or about $2,744.

    Additional Features and Future Plans

    Other important features include a compact 3.6 L chassis, an integrated 300 W power supply unit (PSU), and compatibility with discrete NPU cards. Lenovo has not disclosed the pricing for the high-end model in China, nor has it revealed any information about the global pricing or availability. There is speculation that the refreshed ThinkCentre neo Ultra might be featured at Computex 2025.

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  • ESR MagMouse: Magnetic Wireless Mouse with 160-Hour Battery Life

    ESR MagMouse: Magnetic Wireless Mouse with 160-Hour Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ESR MagMouse features a built-in charging cable located on the bottom, eliminating the need for a separate Type-C cable.
    2. The mouse has a 500 mAh battery that allows for quick charging—1 minute provides up to 4 hours of use, and a full charge lasts 160 hours.
    3. It offers dual connectivity options via 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.0, but cannot connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
    4. The design is compact, lightweight (75 grams), and includes a four-way scroll wheel and navigation buttons for easy use.
    5. The MagMouse is available on Kickstarter starting at $36, with a special early bird price of $24 for backers.


    The well-known maker of magnetic accessories, ESR, has just introduced its latest product: the MagMouse, a magnetic wireless mouse. ESR claims that this mouse is the first in the world to come with a built-in charging cable located right on the bottom. This means that users won’t have to bring a separate Type-C cable for charging. Additionally, the mouse connects to your laptop or tablet easily through a magnetic base.

    Battery and Performance

    Inside this mouse is a 500 mAh battery that enables quick charging. According to ESR, a mere minute of charging can give you up to four hours of usage. If you need a full charge, it takes about 45 minutes and can last an impressive 160 hours. The MagMouse also features six adjustable DPI settings, reaching up to 4800, and works with all major operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Android, Linux, and iOS.

    Connectivity and Design

    The MagMouse allows for dual connectivity through 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.0. However, it is important to note that it can’t connect to multiple devices at the same time. The design is compact, lightweight, and easy to grip, weighing in at just 75 grams (0.16 lbs.). Other handy features include a four-way scroll wheel that tilts left or right for easy navigation through spreadsheets, timelines, or wide images, as well as back and forward navigation buttons.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, the ESR MagMouse is available on Kickstarter, starting at a price of $36. For those who back it early, there’s a special launch offer with a super early bird price of $24, which is a 32% discount off the original price. To find out more about the ESR MagMouse, you can check out their Kickstarter page.

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