Category: Software

  • Microsoft Windows 10 Support Ending Soon: Get 1 Year Free ESU Updates

    Microsoft Windows 10 Support Ending Soon: Get 1 Year Free ESU Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, highlighting the urgency for users to update.
    2. Microsoft has simplified support options for users in the European Economic Area (EEA) to include a free option and a one-time payment.
    3. Users outside the EEA must choose from original ESU options, which cost $61 per device annually for business clients.
    4. The ESU program offers critical security updates from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026, but is temporary.
    5. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11, with Microsoft 365 applications receiving updates on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028.

    The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, and this has been a hot topic for quite some time. Many users who have not yet updated are starting to realize the importance of this deadline, especially since other major companies are making similar announcements. For instance, Valve has stated that it will stop providing Steam updates for the 32-bit version of Windows 10 starting January 1, 2026.

    Changes in European Support

    Due to pressure from consumer advocacy groups like Euroconsumers and tech news outlets such as Windows Central regarding the initial ESU requirements (which included things like cloud backup and rewards points), Microsoft has decided to make things easier for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Microsoft Germany has confirmed the final options available for individuals in the EEA.

    1. Free option (through Microsoft account)

    2. One-time payment

    Options for Users Outside the EEA

    For users outside the EEA, Microsoft is keeping the original ESU options. These private users have to select one of the following choices if they wish to keep receiving updates:

    The ESU program for business clients costs $61 per device each year. Users can renew for a maximum of three years.

    If you’re operating Windows 10 on virtual machines like Windows 365, you can access ESU at no cost, and there is no need for registration or any additional steps.

    Temporary Updates and Future Recommendations

    The ESU program will provide critical and important security updates from October 15, 2025, until October 13, 2026, but this is just a short-term fix.

    Microsoft still suggests that users upgrade to Windows 11. For those who use Microsoft 365, the related Office applications will keep receiving security updates on Windows 10 devices until October 10, 2028.

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  • TikTok Avoids Ban as ByteDance and Xi Agree on US Operations

    TikTok Avoids Ban as ByteDance and Xi Agree on US Operations

    Key Takeaways

    1. TikTok has avoided a ban in the US by allowing ByteDance to give up control over its American operations, algorithms, and user data.
    2. The “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act” increased pressure on TikTok, citing national security concerns.
    3. TikTok’s US operations will be transferred to a joint venture mainly owned by American individuals, with ByteDance holding less than 20% ownership.
    4. Oracle will oversee TikTok’s security in the US, managing user data and content moderation decisions within American facilities.
    5. This change allows for greater access by security agencies to user activities and gives President Trump potential oversight of politically targeted advertisements on the platform.

    TikTok has dodged a ban in the United States after ByteDance, its parent company, agreed to give up control over its American operations, algorithms, and user data. This decision comes after a deal between Chinese leader Xi and former President Trump was reached on the issue.

    Background of the Situation

    The pressure on TikTok increased when President Biden enacted the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act” (H.R. 7521) in April 2024, which aimed to force the app out of the US market. The main concern was that the foreign ownership and control of the app posed a threat to national security because of how user data could be accessed.

    Following a series of appeals and extensions, President Trump issued an executive order on September 25, 2025, prolonging the potential ban for an additional 120 days. He received confirmation that it was possible for TikTok’s US operations to be transferred, which would allow the process to proceed smoothly.

    Details of the Divestiture

    The plan involves transferring TikTok’s US operations to a joint venture primarily owned and managed by American individuals. ByteDance can keep less than 20% ownership, while unnamed investors will hold the rest.

    Oracle has been selected to oversee the security of TikTok in the United States. Moreover, all algorithms, code, and decisions regarding content moderation will fall under American oversight. User data will also be stored in facilities located within the US, which will be managed by Oracle.

    Implications for User Privacy and Control

    This divestiture marks a significant moment, as it transforms the only widely used foreign social media platform in the US to one that is under American control. This change will allow security agencies to have complete access to user activities, similar to how the NSA can monitor communications from US cellular companies. It could also provide President Trump the power to review any algorithms linked to politically targeted advertisements on TikTok in the US market.

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  • Tesla FSD V14 Release: Elon Musk Promises ‘Sentient’ Update V14.2

    Tesla FSD V14 Release: Elon Musk Promises ‘Sentient’ Update V14.2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is set to launch Version 14 of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, with V14.0 releasing next week and V14.1 two weeks later.
    2. FSD is a driver-assistance system that aims for complete autonomy, requiring human oversight for now.
    3. Upcoming FSD updates will reduce annoying steering-wheel alerts and use advanced neural networks for improved decision-making.
    4. Musk describes FSD V14 as the second most important AI upgrade since FSD V12 was released in late 2023.
    5. FSD V14 is distinct from the Unsupervised FSD being tested in the Robotaxi fleet, which can operate without a human driver.

    Tesla is getting ready to launch Version 14 of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. This update was revealed after Elon Musk, the CEO, responded to a post on X by Jason Calacanis, who has invested in Tesla.

    FSD Overview

    FSD is Tesla’s sophisticated driver-assistance system that allows cars to drive autonomously, though they still need human oversight for now. The ultimate aim is to achieve complete autonomy everywhere, and each update is intended to enhance the system’s intelligence and safety.

    Calacanis shared his thoughts on his experience with the previous FSD version 13.x, labeling it as ‘absolutely perfect’. However, he also recognized the company’s careful strategy of rolling out updates slowly, advising others to ‘chill and let them cook’.

    Upcoming Releases

    In his response, Musk confirmed that FSD V14.0 will be widely released next week, with V14.1 expected around two weeks later. He mentioned that by the time V14.2 comes out, Tesla cars equipped with FSD should feel nearly ‘sentient’, driving in a more human-like manner.

    Lately, Musk has been generating excitement for V14 in his posts on X, referring to it as Tesla’s second most crucial AI/Autopilot upgrade since the launch of FSD V12 at the end of 2023.

    Expected Improvements

    Among the anticipated enhancements are reduced ‘nags’, as many drivers have found the frequent steering-wheel alerts in the old version annoying. Additionally, the software will utilize neural networks with ten times more parameters than its predecessor, a significant upgrade that promises better decision-making.

    To clarify, Musk pointed out that FSD V14 is different from the Unsupervised FSD currently being tested in the Robotaxi fleet in Austin, Texas. That version can operate entirely without a human driver.

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  • Vivo Launches OriginOS 6 Beta for X200 Ultra and Flagships

    Vivo Launches OriginOS 6 Beta for X200 Ultra and Flagships

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has announced its global plans for HyperOS 3 after sharing details for China.
    2. Vivo will soon reveal more details about OriginOS 6 before the launch of the Vivo X300 and X300 Pro on October 13.
    3. The Vivo X300 and X300 Pro are expected to be the first devices to launch with OriginOS 6.
    4. Current Vivo X Fold5 and X200 series users can test OriginOS 6 via a beta program.
    5. Supported models for the update include iQOO 13, iQOO Neo10, Neo10 Pro, and Neo10 Pro Plus, featuring smoother animations and enhancements over previous versions.

    Xiaomi has recently announce its global plans for HyperOS 3, having previously shared a similar schedule for China this month. Following this, Vivo has announced the first devices that will be receiving OriginOS 6.

    Announcement Details

    Currently, Vivo has not yet confirmed a complete list of devices that will be eligible, nor has it specified when OriginOS 6 will reach its stable version. Nonetheless, the company has suggested that a comprehensive announcement regarding OriginOS 6 will come before the launch of the Vivo X300 and Vivo X300 Pro on October 13.

    Device Availability

    Reports suggest that the Vivo X300 and X300 Pro will be the initial devices to launch with OriginOS 6. Meanwhile, owners of the X Fold5 or X200 series smartphones, such as the X200 Pro mini or the X200 Ultra, can already test OriginOS 6 through its beta program. Interestingly, the iPhone 17 Pro series has recently outperformed the latter in an independent camera test (currently priced at $1,539 on Amazon).

    Supported Models

    In addition, Vivo has listed the iQOO 13, iQOO Neo10, iQOO Neo10 Pro, and iQOO Neo10 Pro Plus among the devices set to receive the update, as depicted in the image below. Sources like WhyLab indicate that OriginOS 6 features smoother animation effects compared to OriginOS 5, along with various other enhancements. The application for the OriginOS 6 beta program will stay open until October 6 at 23:59 China Time (UTC +08:00).

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    Vivo Launches OriginOS 6 Beta for X200 Ultra and Flagships

     

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  • HyperOS 3 Beta Now Available for 12 More Xiaomi and Redmi Phones

    HyperOS 3 Beta Now Available for 12 More Xiaomi and Redmi Phones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the HyperOS 3 beta program for select Xiaomi and Redmi devices, inviting users to test the software ahead of its official release.
    2. Eligible devices include the Xiaomi 14 series, MIX Flip, Redmi K70 series, and Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro, currently limited to Chinese models.
    3. Users can apply for the beta program through the Xiaomi Community app, with testers divided into two groups for access timing.
    4. The stable version of HyperOS 3 is expected to be released in November for various devices in China and globally.
    5. Participants are advised to back up their devices completely and follow instructions before applying for the beta program.

    Xiaomi has just launched the HyperOS 3 beta program for a new group of Xiaomi and Redmi devices, giving some users the chance to test the latest software ahead of its official release. This time, the company is inviting users who own the Xiaomi 14 series, MIX Flip, Redmi K70 series, and Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro to experience an early version of HyperOS 3, which is based on Android 16. Participants will help the development team fix any major glitches or problems before the stable version is rolled out.

    Devices Eligible for Testing

    The current closed beta is limited to Chinese models, but it will likely expand to global versions soon. Xiaomi has already begun beta tests for international models, including the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Xiaomi 14T, POCO F7, Redmi 15C, and POCO C85, suggesting that a broader release is on the horizon.

    If you own one of the devices mentioned above with a China ROM and are interested in HyperOS 3, you will need to apply for a spot in the program through the Xiaomi Community app. Testers will be selected in two groups for each device; those in the first group will gain immediate access to the update, while second group testers may have to wait for up to 10 days. It’s important to follow the provided instructions and back up your device completely before proceeding.

    Stable Release Timeline

    The stable version of HyperOS 3 is expected to be released in November for the Xiaomi 14 series, MIX Fold 4, MIX Flip, and Redmi K70 devices in China. For global models, including the Xiaomi 14 family, the POCO F6 Pro (which is a rebranded Redmi K70), the POCO X6 Pro (a rebadged Redmi K70E), and the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, the rollout will also take place in November, with the full deployment expected to continue into December.

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    HyperOS 3 Beta Now Available for 12 More Xiaomi and Redmi PhonesHyperOS 3 Beta Now Available for 12 More Xiaomi and Redmi Phones

     

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  • Kali Linux 2025.3 Removes ARMel Support, Updates Nexmon Firmware

    Kali Linux 2025.3 Removes ARMel Support, Updates Nexmon Firmware

    Key Takeaways

    1. Kali Linux 2025.3 update includes improved HashiCorp Packer & Vagrant software with new build-scripts and examples.
    2. Enhanced Nexmon support adds compatibility for more wireless chips, including the Raspberry Pi 5.
    3. Introduction of 10 new tools, including Caido, Detect It Easy, and krbrelayx.
    4. Support for ARMel-powered devices has been removed, affecting older models like the ODROID-W and Raspberry Pi 1.
    5. Future version 2025.4 is anticipated to feature user interface updates, a better MSF screen terminal, and a refreshed Simulator app.

    Focused on offering a Debian-based environment for penetration testing and digital forensics, Kali Linux has released its first update since June. Labeled as 2025.3, this update features three main highlights: updates to HashiCorp Packer & Vagrant software, enhanced Nexmon support, and the introduction of 10 new tools.

    Update Details

    The updates to the HashiCorp tools, which focus on virtual machines, come with consistent pre-seed examples, v2 Packer build-scripts, and adjustments to existing VM build-scripts. Enhanced Nexmon support brings compatibility with more updated wireless chips, including support for the Raspberry Pi 5 (the 16 GB version is currently priced at $119.99 on Amazon). Additionally, Kali Linux 2025.3 has added several new tools: Caido and Caido-cli, Detect It Easy, Gemini CLI, krbrelayx, ligolo-mp, llm-tools-nmap, mcp-kali-server, patchleaks, and vwifi-dkms.

    Device Support Changes

    Moreover, it’s worth noting that this Kali Linux update, similar to its Debian 13 “Trixie” base, has removed support for ARMel-powered devices. The devices that fall under this category are quite limited, including the outdated ODROID-W (an end-of-life product), the original Raspberry Pi 1, and the Pi Zero W.

    Kali NetHunter is now compatible with the older Samsung Galaxy S10, and it has also received a number of tweaks and fixes for various other devices. For more detailed information, take a look at the release blog post (link is provided below the video). Anticipation for version 2025.4 should rise, as it promises more updates to the user interface, a better MSF screen terminal, a refreshed Simulator app, and additional features.

    Kali Linux Blog

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  • iOS 26 Wallet App to Store U.S. Passports This Year

    iOS 26 Wallet App to Store U.S. Passports This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. U.S. passport holders can soon store digital copies of their passports in the Wallet app with iOS 26.
    2. Travelers must still carry physical passports for international flights and not all TSA checkpoints accept digital IDs.
    3. Apple’s integration of digital passports into the Wallet app aims for better compatibility, following similar features in Android’s Google Wallet.
    4. Several U.S. states offer digital versions of driver’s licenses and state IDs, indicating a shift towards digital identification.
    5. Concerns about security and hacking highlight the importance of keeping physical documents alongside digital IDs.

    The new iOS update has a clear aim: to simplify travel for people in the U.S.

    This week, Apple announced that U.S. passport holders will soon be able to save a digital copy of their passport in the Wallet app of iOS 26, set to launch later this year. Currently, this feature is only available for U.S. passports, according to information from Apple’s site.

    Digital vs. Physical Passports

    While the ability to store passport details is a fresh feature for iOS, Android’s Google Wallet app introduced digital passports last year. Nevertheless, travelers are still required to carry their physical passports when flying internationally. Even when flying domestically, not all TSA checkpoints in the U.S. accept digital IDs, making it wise to have a physical form of ID handy.

    Existing Alternatives and Compatibility

    There are some apps that let travelers keep digital copies of their passports on their phones, but Apple is integrating this feature directly into their Wallet app. This could lead to better compatibility with iPhones, although only time will tell if that’s the case.

    Beyond just passports, a variety of states in the U.S. now permit digital versions of driver’s licenses, state IDs, and other government-issued IDs. This trend suggests that we might be nearing an era where all our identification and banking needs can be handled through one device.

    Concerns About Security

    Given how vulnerable computers and smartphones can be to hacking and theft, it raises questions about whether this is the kind of future we desire for our personal security. For now and likely in the foreseeable future, it’s still smart to carry physical documents and cards with you.

    The digital ID feature will be added to the Wallet app in iOS 26, expected to arrive later this year.

     

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  • Xiaomi Launches Stable HyperOS 3 Global Rollout for Smartphones

    Xiaomi Launches Stable HyperOS 3 Global Rollout for Smartphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched HyperOS 3 worldwide after its initial release in China last month.
    2. Over 20 devices will receive stable updates for HyperOS 3 by the end of October.
    3. The Xiaomi 15T and 15T Pro will come with HyperOS 3 pre-installed in the global market.
    4. More than a dozen Poco, Redmi, and Xiaomi devices will receive stable updates by the end of November.
    5. Older models like the Xiaomi 14 and Poco F6 series will be upgraded to HyperOS 3 in November and December.

    Xiaomi has launched HyperOS 3 worldwide after revealing its new OS update in China just last month. To give you an idea, there are more than a dozen devices that can access the HyperOS 3 beta software in China, such as the Xiaomi 15, Pad 7, and Pad 7 Pro (currently priced at $633 on Amazon).

    Upcoming Updates

    In addition, Xiaomi has announced that over 20 devices will begin receiving stable updates for HyperOS 3 by the end of October. The company has now shared similar plans for its global users, which will also be starting in October.

    Global Rollout

    As illustrated in the image above, Xiaomi has included the Xiaomi 15T and Xiaomi 15T Pro in its global update timeline. Both of these devices are expected to come with HyperOS 3 pre-installed. Furthermore, the new Watch S4 41 mm, Smart Band 10 Glimmer Edition, the Redmi Pad 2 Pro series, and the Xiaomi Pad Mini will also be part of this update. In essence, HyperOS 3 will not be ‘rolling out’ to any of these devices.

    Future Plans

    Despite that, more than a dozen Poco, Redmi, and Xiaomi devices are set to get stable updates for HyperOS 3 by the end of November. Following that, in November and December, older models like the Xiaomi 14 and Poco F6 series will also be upgraded to HyperOS 3. Lastly, the third group of devices will extend back to the Xiaomi 12 series and most of the Redmi Note 13 series. For additional details, please refer to the image above.

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    Xiaomi Launches Stable HyperOS 3 Global Rollout for Smartphones

     

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  • Starlink Updates Outage Log to Track All Network Events

    Starlink Updates Outage Log to Track All Network Events

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of Event Log: Starlink app now includes an Event Log to alert users about service outages and gather local network reports.

    2. Enhanced Monitoring: The Event Log tracks not only major satellite failures but also interruptions from router disconnections and other connectivity issues.

    3. Improved User Understanding: The purpose of the Event Log is to help subscribers understand issues better and reduce the workload for customer service agents.

    4. Diagnostic Resource: The information in the Event Log is similar to what tech support uses, aiding customers in troubleshooting and enhancing their overall experience.

    5. Growing Subscriber Base: Starlink’s subscriber numbers are rising as download speeds improve, highlighting the need for better tools to analyze service disruptions, especially after recent outages.

    After experiencing its second significant “Starlink down” incident within a couple of weeks, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service has opted to enhance the Outage Log feature in its app.

    Event Log Introduction

    The Starlink application now features what is called the Event Log. This new addition not only alerts users about major service outages like before but also gathers local network reports.

    The main aim of this updated Starlink network event log is to enhance subscribers’ understanding of the reasons behind any issues while also reducing the burden on customer service agents. In the past, the outage section in the Starlink app merely indicated the duration during which the terminal was offline.

    Expanded Tracking Capabilities

    Now, the Starlink event log monitors more than just significant satellite connectivity failures; it also accounts for service interruptions caused by the router being turned off or disconnected.

    Moreover, if there is a substantial loss of packet data or if a Starlink Mini terminal reboots in a remote area, these events will also be recorded by the app. This makes it a more beneficial diagnostic resource for both the end user and customer service when assistance is required.

    Starlink claims that the information available to users in the new Event Log is similar to what tech support sees during troubleshooting. Over time, they plan to add more connectivity issues to the reporting list. The intention is to keep subscribers updated about potential causes of disruptions during video calls or sudden drops in frame rates while gaming. Although these issues might seem minor from a support standpoint, they can negatively impact the user’s overall experience with the network.

    Rising Subscriber Numbers

    As Starlink’s download speeds improve thanks to significant additions in satellite capacity, the number of subscribers to the satellite internet service is increasing rapidly. There have already been two major global outages: one was a man-made error linked to a firmware update at ground network stations, and the other was caused by a geomagnetic storm. Any tools that assist in analyzing Starlink service disruptions will be beneficial for resolving connectivity problems as Starlink prepares for its ambitious gigabit network upgrade.

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    Starlink Updates Outage Log to Track All Network Events

     

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  • ZimaOS 1.5.0 Becomes Paid: Community Disappointment Grows

    ZimaOS 1.5.0 Becomes Paid: Community Disappointment Grows

    Key Takeaways

    1. CasaOS started as an open-source project for a user-friendly home cloud solution, allowing easy deployment of applications in a Docker environment.

    2. IceWhale transitioned from CasaOS to create ZimaOS, which offers more features while maintaining ease of use.

    3. ZimaOS v1.4.4 introduced new capabilities, but version 1.5.0 will have a paid tier: the free CE-Edition and a new Plus Edition costing $29 for a lifetime license.

    4. The free CE-Edition has limitations, including a cap on the number of apps, disks, and users, while the Plus Edition offers expanded functionality.

    5. IceWhale justifies the pricing by comparing it to other costly NAS operating systems and plans to reinvest a portion of revenue back into community support and development.

    CasaOS began as an open-source initiative aimed at building a straightforward, user-friendly, and attractive home cloud solution. With its sleek web interface, users can conveniently deploy applications like Nextcloud, Jellyfin, or AdGuard Home in a Docker-based setting.

    Evolution of ZimaOS

    IceWhale originally integrated CasaOS into its early offerings, such as the ZimaBoard (review), ZimaBoard 2 (review), ZimaBlade (review), and ZimaCube. However, over time, the company diverged and created ZimaOS, which is based on CasaOS but comes with a wider array of features while still being easy to use.

    New Features and Pricing

    Recently, ZimaOS v1.4.4 was launched, which introduced multiple new capabilities. Up until now, every iteration of ZimaOS has been completely free, and most users believed this would continue indefinitely.

    This is why many were surprised when IceWhale revealed that from version 1.5.0 onward, ZimaOS would incorporate a paid tier. The operating system will now be divided into two versions: a free, limited CE-Edition, and a new Plus Edition. The Plus Edition will initially be available for a one-time cost of $29, providing a lifetime license.

    Limitations of the Free Edition

    The free CE-Edition has some limitations: it includes all core functionalities but restricts usage to 10 apps, 4 disks, and 3 users. While unlimited cloud services and UDisks will still be on hand, the rest of the system will face restrictions compared to the paid version.

    Naturally, the community’s reaction was one of surprise and disappointment. In reply, IceWhale put out a clarification to ease concerns. The company expressed appreciation for the community’s backing and highlighted that all officially supported devices—including the ZimaBoard 1/2, ZimaBlade, and ZimaCube—will automatically get the Plus Edition when they upgrade from version 1.4.x or earlier to 1.5.0.

    In simpler terms, existing users can upgrade for free—as long as they do so before the deadline of June 30, 2026. IceWhale has provided a generous timeframe for users to transition.

    Justification for Pricing

    Regarding the pricing choice, IceWhale notes that other NAS operating systems typically cost “hundreds of dollars,” and the $29 lifetime license aids in covering ongoing development, upkeep, and community management expenses—ensuring ZimaOS’s long-term viability. The company also mentions plans to reinvest 33% of the revenue from ZimaOS Plus back into community contributors. Conversations are already in progress with community members to determine the optimal approach for implementing this initiative.

    press release

    ZimaOS is gearing up to unveil version 1.5.0. From this version onward, ZimaOS will be split into two editions: the free CE Edition and the Plus Edition priced at a $29 lifetime license.

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    ZimaOS 1.5.0 Becomes Paid: Community Disappointment Grows

     

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