Category: Phones

  • Samsung’s Inkjet Printing Technology Ready for Budget-Friendly Foldables on the Horizon

    Samsung’s Inkjet Printing Technology Ready for Budget-Friendly Foldables on the Horizon

    Samsung Rumored to Cut Foldable Smartphones Costs With Budget Friendly Inkjet Printing

    Samsung is known for its lineup of foldable devices, including popular series like the Galaxy Fold and Flip. However, these phones, such as the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5, come with a hefty price tag of $1,000 and more. In an effort to make foldable smartphones more affordable, Samsung is reportedly exploring cost-cutting solutions like inkjet printing for foldable displays.

    Expanding the Foldable Lineup

    On January 17, Samsung unveiled its latest flagship phones, the Galaxy S24 series, at the Unpacked event. Following this release, the company has plans to introduce the Flip 6 and Fold 6. Additionally, rumors suggest that Samsung is working on a budget-friendly foldable phone with a book-style design, which is expected to be significantly cheaper than the current foldable models.

    Shifting to Inkjet Printing Technology

    Previously, Samsung utilized the Micro Dry Process Decoration (MDD) for its foldable phone screens. This involved creating frames by cutting films from a roll, with the necessary ink already embedded in the film. However, this method raised concerns due to its cost implications. Thankfully, after extensive research and development efforts, Samsung is now transitioning to inkjet printing technology.

    By adopting inkjet printing, Samsung aims to extract more frames from the original film, ultimately reducing costs and potentially lowering the prices of its foldable smartphones. The frames of OLED panels play a crucial role in hiding internal circuits and components, and frame films are applied post-coating to protect against oxygen and water. Once the frames are in place, ultra-thin glasses are laminated onto the panels to complete the production process.

    Staying Ahead in a Competitive Market

    Samsung currently holds a prominent position in the foldable smartphone market, which continues to expand rapidly and contribute significantly to the company’s revenue. However, the smartphone market as a whole faces increasing competition from brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, Honor, and Vivo. In order to maintain its advantage, Samsung must leverage its position and extensive knowledge in this sector.

    This strategic move to explore inkjet printing technology could potentially help Samsung regain its title as the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer, which it lost to Apple. By finding ways to reduce costs and make foldable smartphones more accessible to a wider audience, Samsung aims to solidify its position and continue to lead the market.

    In conclusion, Samsung’s rumored exploration of inkjet printing technology for its foldable smartphones is a promising development. By cutting costs and potentially reducing prices, Samsung aims to make these innovative devices more budget-friendly. As the company expands its foldable lineup and faces competition in the market, this strategic move could play a significant role in Samsung’s future success.

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  • OnePlus Triumphs Over Legal Obstacles, Makes a Comeback in the Previously Restricted European Market

    OnePlus Triumphs Over Legal Obstacles, Makes a Comeback in the Previously Restricted European Market

    OnePlus Resumes European Market Presence

    After settling their dispute with Nokia, BBK Group has announced that OnePlus will be re-entering the European market. This comes after Nokia sued Oppo, a member of BBK Group, for allegedly infringing on its 5G technology patents. The court ruled in favor of Nokia, requiring BBK to pay licensing fees. As a result, BBK temporarily stopped 5G smartphone sales in Germany. However, the two companies have now reached a patent licensing agreement, resolving the issues.

    OnePlus Open foldable and New Models

    Tipster Max Jambor discovered that the OnePlus Germany website is now selling the OnePlus Open foldable, along with pre-order pages for the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R. This indicates that OnePlus is ready to make a comeback in the European market. On the other hand, Oppo and Vivo’s German websites still state that their products are currently unavailable. However, it is expected that this will change soon, and sales for these brands will resume.

    Benefits for Nokia and BBK Group

    The agreement between Nokia and BBK Group has resulted in significant benefits for both parties. Nokia has seen a boost in patent revenues as a result of the settlement. On the other hand, BBK Group’s brands, including Oppo, OnePlus, Realme, and Vivo, have set the stage for a successful return to the European market. This is particularly important considering that Apple’s market share in the EU is only 28%, while 72% of the population prefers Android. With a population of half a billion people in the region, the European market represents a crucial opportunity for BBK Group to increase its market share.

    Overall, the resolution of the patent disagreement between Nokia and BBK Group has paved the way for OnePlus to resume its presence in the European market. With the OnePlus Open foldable and the upcoming OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R, OnePlus is poised to regain its position in the highly competitive smartphone market. As for Oppo and Vivo, it is expected that they will soon follow suit and make their products available to European consumers once again.

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  • OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G Unveils Equipped with Dimensity 6020 SoC

    OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G Unveils Equipped with Dimensity 6020 SoC

    OnePlus Launches Nord N30 SE 5G: Specifications and Features

    OnePlus recently introduced its latest addition to the Nord lineup, the Nord N30 SE 5G. This device comes as the successor to the Nord N20 SE, which was unveiled back in 2022. Offering some notable upgrades, the Nord N30 SE 5G aims to provide an enhanced user experience for global markets.

    Design and Display

    The OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G features a 6.72-inch LCD screen with a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout. The display offers an FHD+ resolution, ensuring vibrant visuals and sharp details. On the back panel, you’ll find a rectangular camera island, while the absence of an alert slider and a 3.5mm headphone jack is worth noting.

    Camera Capabilities

    In terms of camera specifications, the OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G sports a 50MP primary sensor accompanied by a 2MP depth lens. For stunning selfies, there is an 8MP front-facing camera, allowing you to capture memorable moments with ease.

    Powerful Performance

    Under the hood, the OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor, offering 5G connectivity for seamless browsing and faster download speeds. This processor is a significant upgrade from its predecessor’s Helio G35 chipset. The device also boasts 4GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard storage, providing ample space for all your files and apps. To keep the smartphone running throughout the day, it is backed by a 5,000mAh battery, which supports 33W fast charging.

    Software and Availability

    The OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G comes pre-installed with OxygenOS 13.1, based on the latest Android 13 operating system. This ensures a smooth and optimized user experience right out of the box. However, OnePlus has not disclosed the pricing and availability details of the Nord N30 SE 5G. It is expected to be released in regions where its predecessor, the Nord N20 SE, was previously available.

    With its impressive specifications and features, the OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G aims to cater to the needs of global consumers seeking a powerful and reliable smartphone. Stay tuned for further updates on pricing and availability as OnePlus continues to expand its product portfolio.

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  • BIS India Certification Hints at Impending Launch of Samsung Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G in India

    BIS India Certification Hints at Impending Launch of Samsung Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G in India

    Samsung is preparing to release several mid-range smartphones, including the highly anticipated Galaxy A Series and M Series smartphones. Recently, the Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G have received certification from BIS India, adding to their previous certifications from the FCC and Bluetooth SIG. These certifications not only confirm the upcoming launch of these smartphones but also provide some insight into their specifications.

    Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G Certification

    The BIS India certification solidifies the upcoming launch of the Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G in India. However, while the listing confirms the release, it does not provide any specific details regarding the smartphones’ specifications and features.

    Samsung Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35 5G Specifications

    Fortunately, the Galaxy A35 5G has made an appearance on the Geekbench benchmarks, allowing us to gather some information about its specifications and improvements compared to its predecessor. The smartphone, with the model number SM-A356U, is equipped with the Exynos 1380 chipset, which is the same processor found in the Galaxy A54 and M54/F54. The octa-core chipset consists of four cores clocked at 2 GHz and four cores ticking at 2.40 GHz. Additionally, the phone boasts 6GB of RAM and runs on the Android 14 operating system.

    In terms of performance, the Samsung Galaxy A35 achieves a score of 697 points in Geekbench’s single-core test and 2,332 points in the multi-core test. However, details about the device’s display size, camera specifications, and battery capacity are still unknown.

    On the other hand, the Galaxy A55 5G is expected to feature 25W wired fast charging, as confirmed by TUV Rheinland and 3C certifications. Rumors suggest that the smartphone will be launched between April and June 2024 and will sport a 6.5-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is speculated to be powered by an Exynos 1480 SoC and an AMD GPU. The phone might also come with a 5,000mAh battery and a camera setup consisting of a 50-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 5-megapixel macro camera at the back. For selfies, the front camera is expected to have a resolution of 32 megapixels.

    The Galaxy A35 is said to have curved corners and a 6.6-inch display. Both the Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G are expected to launch in the second quarter of 2024, although there is a possibility that Samsung might release them earlier than anticipated.

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  • China Rolls Out Official Realme UI 5.0 Update for Realme 11 and Realme GT Neo 5 SE

    China Rolls Out Official Realme UI 5.0 Update for Realme 11 and Realme GT Neo 5 SE

    After Early Access and Beta updates for the Realme 11 and Realme GT Neo 5 SE in China, the company has officially released the Realme UI 5.0 update for both smartphones. The update is currently being rolled out to the Realme 11 and Realme GT Neo 5 SE smartphones in China. Realme GT Neo 5 SE users may have already started receiving the official Realme UI 5.0 update, while Realme 11 is currently available as a public beta. This means that users will need to join the Public Beta program to get the new official update.

    Realme 11 China variant is the first to receive the Realme UI 5.0 official version, ahead of the global variant. On the other hand, the Realme GT Neo 5 SE already received the public beta update a month ago in China, and now the OTA rollout is available for all users.

    The Realme 11 is receiving the Realme UI 5.0 Public Beta via firmware RMX3751_14.0.0.301 (CN01), while the Realme GT Neo 5 SE gets RMX3700_14.0.0.210 (CN01). To get the new update, the Realme GT Neo 5 SE must be running firmware RMX3700_13.1.0.120 or RMX3700_13.1.0.121. On the other hand, the Realme 11 should be using any of the firmware versions: RMX3751_13.1.0.107 (CN01), RMX3751_13.1.0.108 (CN01), or RMX3751_13.1.0.110 (CN01).

    Realme UI 5.0 features for Realme 11 and Realme GT Neo 5 SE

    Along with the Android 14 features, the company has added self-developed features as part of the new build. Here are the official changelogs for both smartphones:

    Pantanal Service

    • Newly added Fluid Cloud interaction form, which provides real-time reminders in different forms based on the current service status and content, allowing you to learn important information at a glance
    • Optimized realme UI ubiquitous services, added new travel services, and provided one-stop full-link travel service recommendations
    • Added realme UI ubiquitous service smart car space, the new Car+ can directly cast the screen to the car system for use, providing smart cross-end services in driving scenarios

    Smart and efficient

    • Added a new transfer station to enable drag-and-drop transfer of content across multiple devices and applications
    • Added the function of opening files at will, which supports previewing files in various formats on the mobile phone
    • Optimized smart text services, automatically identify copied content and provide corresponding service recommendations, one-click direct access to services
    • Upgraded the intelligent meeting assistant, adding support for manual marking and transcribing key content

    Smart Internet

    • Upgraded My Device to Device Space, manage interconnected devices in a unified manner, and control multiple devices more conveniently
    • Optimized mobile phone relocation, quickly verify new phones, and quickly migrate device data

    Security and Privacy

    • Added privacy watermark, add protective watermark to ID photos with one click, making image sharing safer
    • Optimized photo and video permission management, making application access more secure

    Aquamorphic Design

    • Upgraded aquatic color system, adopting a natural, soft, and clearer interface style, bringing a more comfortable color experience
    • Added aquatic theme system ringtones, optimized system UI prompt sound effects, and improved sound quality
    • Optimized system dynamics to bring delicate and silky dynamic design

    Humanistic care

    • Added a new carbon footprint public welfare information screen, which can visualize environmental protection and carbon reduction footprints based on dynamic changes in daily step count
    • Updated system customized input method to support display and input of rare characters

    Please note that the new update may take some time to optimize the smartphone, and until then, it may cause the device to heat up or consume more battery.

    Realme is also bringing Realme UI 5.0 to various other smartphones, including the Realme 10 Pro+ 5G, Realme C55, Realme Narzo N60 5G, Realme GT 2 Pro, and others.

    How to Apply for Realme UI 5.0 Public Beta on Realme 11

    Prerequisites:

    • Make sure your phone has at least 15 GB of free storage.
    • Your device should not be rooted.
    • Backup important data from the device.
    • Third-party applications may not work perfectly.
    • It may impact daily usage and affect battery life for a couple of days until the phone gets used to the new software.

    Steps:

    1. Charge your battery to at least 60%.
    2. Apply for the Realme UI 5.0 Access program by going to Settings → About device → Click on the “realme UI 4.0” banner at the top → Click on the three dots in the top right corner → Beta program → Public Beta (Early Access) → Apply Now → Submit.

    Meanwhile, Realme GT Neo5 SE users will receive the OTA update. To check for the update, users can go to Settings > About Device and then tap Software Version.

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  • Rumored Timeline Revealed for the Huawei Mate 70 Series Launch

    Rumored Timeline Revealed for the Huawei Mate 70 Series Launch

    Huawei Mate 70 Series Expected to Launch in September 2024

    According to recent leaks, Huawei is said to be working on its next generation of flagship Mate series smartphones, which will likely be a part of the Mate 70 lineup. The Chinese tech giant had previously unveiled the Mate 60, Mate 60 Pro, Mate 60 Pro+, and Mate 60 RS Ultimate models. Now, a Weibo tipster called Smart Pikachu has shared some information regarding the Mate 70 series and its possible launch timeline.

    Launch Timeline and Comparison with Apple iPhone 16 Series

    Smart Pikachu claims that Huawei is planning on releasing the Mate 70 lineup in China in September 2024. This launch timeline aligns with the release of the Mate 60 phones. The tipster also mentioned that the upcoming Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, and Mate 70 Pro+ models will be “stronger” than the Apple iPhone 16 series. This indicates that Huawei is looking to compete with Apple’s next-generation iPhones, which are expected to be released in 2024.

    1-Inch Device in the Works

    Aside from the Mate 70 series, Smart Pikachu also revealed that Huawei is working on a new 1-inch device. This suggests that an upcoming Huawei smartphone may feature a 1-inch sensor for its primary camera. It is speculated that this device could be a new addition to either the Mate or P series. Speaking of the P series, there have been rumors about the development of the Huawei P70 series as well.

    Huawei P70 Series Rumors

    Recent reports suggest that the Huawei P70 series is also in the development pipeline. Rumors indicate that the P70 may be launched in two different screen sizes. Furthermore, it is expected to come with a Sony IMX989 sensor for its rear camera and a 6.7-inch 1.5K quad curved OLED display for its front.

    With these leaks and rumors, Huawei fans can look forward to the release of the Mate 70 series in September 2024, which is expected to bring significant improvements over its predecessors. Additionally, the possibility of a new 1-inch device and the development of the P70 series adds to the excitement for Huawei enthusiasts.

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  • Leaked Xiaomi 15 series specs hint at possible Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 inclusion

    Leaked Xiaomi 15 series specs hint at possible Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 inclusion

    Xiaomi 15 Series Key Specs

    According to a leak shared by tipster Smart Pikachu on Weibo, the Xiaomi 15 series is expected to come equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 SoC. This aligns with previous reports about the tech giant's next flagship phones.

    Display and Production Details

    In December 2023, another leak from tipster Digital Chat Station suggested that the Xiaomi 15 could feature a 6.36-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The latest leak from Smart Pikachu adds that the display may offer 1.5K resolution.

    It has been reported that mass production of the Xiaomi 15 lineup could begin in September, with shipments starting as early as October. This timeline is similar to the launch of the Xiaomi 14 series, which was unveiled in China in October 2023.

    Speculation and Conclusion

    While these leaks provide some insight into the upcoming Xiaomi 15 series, it's important to note that they are still speculative at this point. As with any rumors, it's best to take this information with a pinch of salt and await further updates on the matter. Keep an eye out for more news and details as the release of the Xiaomi 15 series approaches.

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  • TECNO Collaborates with Dolby Labs to Integrate Dolby Atmos into POVA 6 Series Smartphones

    TECNO Collaborates with Dolby Labs to Integrate Dolby Atmos into POVA 6 Series Smartphones

    TECNO, a tech brand based in China, has recently announced a strategic partnership with Dolby Laboratories. The collaboration aims to integrate Dolby Atmos technology into TECNO’s upcoming POVA 6 series smartphones. Furthermore, the brand has confirmed that the POVA 6 series will be unveiled at the Mobile World Congress Barcelona in 2024.

    Dolby Atmos: Enhancing the Audio Experience

    For those unfamiliar with Dolby Atmos, it is an audio technology that offers a more immersive and three-dimensional sound experience. This innovative technology utilizes an object-based approach, allowing sounds to move freely within a three-dimensional space, including overhead. Initially developed for cinemas, Dolby Atmos is now widely used in various audio systems such as home theaters, soundbars, headphones, and more, to provide users with a realistic audio experience.

    TECNO’s Focus on User Experience

    Jack Guo, the General Manager of TECNO, emphasized the impact of the partnership on user experience. He stated, “Our goal is to enhance the user experience. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos in our smartphones is a significant step towards delivering high-quality audio to our global users.

    Bringing Dolby Atmos to More Users

    Javier Foncillas, the Vice President of Commercial Partnerships at Dolby Laboratories, also expressed his excitement about the collaboration. He said, “We are delighted to bring Dolby Atmos to a wider audience through TECNO’s smartphones. This technology is not just about fancy audio – it elevates the sound quality of all music, games, and videos.

    TECNO POVA 6 Pro 5G: A Gaming-focused Phone

    The first model to feature Dolby Atmos technology will be the TECNO POVA 6 Pro 5G, which is scheduled to launch at the Mobile World Congress. This particular phone is targeted towards the youth market, with a focus on enhancing the gaming experience through immersive audio.

    Expanding Dolby Atmos to Future Models

    Following the launch of the POVA 6 series, TECNO has plans to incorporate Dolby Atmos into future models within the CAMON and PHANTOM series. This commitment aligns with the company’s dedication to providing users with top-notch entertainment and represents a significant advancement in phone entertainment technology.

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  • Early Access Update of Realme UI 5.0, Based on Android 14, Now Available for Realme 9 Pro 5G in India

    Early Access Update of Realme UI 5.0, Based on Android 14, Now Available for Realme 9 Pro 5G in India

    The Realme 9 Pro 5G in India has been selected for early access to the new Realme UI 5.0. This update, based on the Android 14 operating system, brings a host of new features and improvements, but also some caveats as it is still in the beta stage.

    New Features and Improvements

    The Realme UI 5.0 introduces an upgraded Aquamorphic Design, providing a more refined and natural color experience. Additionally, new Aquamorphic-themed ringtones and enhanced system notification sounds are part of the package. Users will also notice improved system animations, along with better app launch speeds and overall system stability.

    Fluid Cloud and Immediate Shelf

    Key features include Fluid Cloud, which offers updated information at a glance, and the Immediate Shelf with expanded widget options. These features enhance user experience by providing quick access to relevant information and customizable widgets.

    Security and Privacy Enhancements

    Security and privacy improvements have been made as well, with improved photo and video permission management for quicker access by apps. This ensures better control over user data and enhances privacy protection.

    Known Issues

    However, users should be aware of some known issues in this early access version. One notable bug is the inability to slide the desktop when using floating windows, though this can be temporarily resolved by pulling down the status bar. Also, the Glance Lock-screen feature is currently unavailable but is expected in future updates. These issues are expected to be addressed in subsequent updates.

    Early Access Program

    The Early Access program is a beta initiative allowing Realme 9 Pro 5G users to experience the latest Realme UI 5.0 update. As with any beta software, there might be bugs, and some apps may not function correctly. Therefore, it’s recommended not to install this on a primary device.

    Application Process

    For those interested, applications for the early access program began on January 27, 2024. It’s important to note that applications are accepted in batches, and there are only a limited number of spots. Users need to ensure their phone is not rooted, have more than 15GB of storage available, and back up their data to prevent loss. Moreover, not every applicant is guaranteed to receive the update, and patience is advised for those who don’t.

    To apply, users must have their Realme 9 Pro 5G charged above 60%, update their device to the specified UI version, enable Developer Mode, and apply through the Software Update Application channel. Following these steps will ensure a smooth application process and increase the chances of receiving the early access update.

    Overall, the Realme UI 5.0 update brings exciting new features and improvements to the Realme 9 Pro 5G. Users can look forward to enhanced design, performance, and security enhancements. However, it's important to consider the beta nature of the update and the potential for bugs. Those who are willing to participate in the early access program can apply and experience the latest Realme UI 5.0 on their devices.

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  • China’s Smartphone Market Surges 6.5% in 2023 amid Android’s Dominance over iOS

    China’s Smartphone Market Surges 6.5% in 2023 amid Android’s Dominance over iOS

    China’s Smartphone Market Sees Growth in 2023

    The smartphone market has become highly competitive, with manufacturers like Apple, Xiaomi, Samsung, Oppo, Vivo, and other brands vying for market share and increased sales. With the recent global decline in smartphone sales, it is interesting to see how the market performed in 2023. According to data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, China’s smartphone shipments rose by 6.5 percent year-on-year in 2023.

    Factors Influencing the Global Smartphone Market

    The global smartphone market has been experiencing a decline recently, mainly due to two factors. Firstly, people are hesitant to spend money due to the global inflation that resulted from the Covid-19 pandemic. Secondly, smartphones now offer more performance than is necessary for daily tasks. Even entry-level phones can take good photos, provide sufficient performance, and charge quickly. Mid-range and flagship smartphones from the past few years offer a user experience far beyond what is required. As a result, people no longer feel the same need to invest heavily in new technology.

    China’s Market Performance in 2023

    Despite the global decline, the smartphone market in China experienced growth in 2023. Shipments rose by 6.5% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 289 million units. This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for 5G technology. Out of the total shipments, 240 million were 5G models, accounting for 82.8% of phone sales in China. The country’s strong presence in the tech industry and the availability of favorable tariffs from operators have contributed to the surge in demand for 5G smartphones.

    Market Leadership and Brand Preferences

    Local brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo continued to dominate the market by selling 231 million units. On the other hand, Samsung and Apple held a combined share of 58 million units. Despite Apple being the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer, the data suggests that China’s contribution to this growth is relatively modest. It appears that users in the region still prefer Android over iOS.

    Increased Competition and Product Offerings

    In 2023, a total of 406 phones were introduced in China, marking a 5.5% increase from the previous year. This is potentially the highest number of new phone releases globally. China’s status as a technology production hub has nurtured various local brands, fostering competition in the market. However, only a few of these brands have managed to move beyond the “others” category in market statistics and gain a significant market share.

    In conclusion, while the global smartphone market has been on a decline, China’s market showed growth in 2023. The increasing demand for 5G technology and the availability of favorable tariffs have contributed to this growth. Local brands continue to dominate the market, while global brands like Samsung and Apple have a relatively smaller presence. With increased competition and a wide range of product offerings, the Chinese smartphone market remains dynamic and highly competitive.

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