Category: Software

  • Vintage 7 blends Windows 7 and Windows 10 IoT you’ll love

    Vintage 7 blends Windows 7 and Windows 10 IoT you’ll love

    Key Takeaway

    – Classic 7 rebinds a Windows 10 IoT LTSC base to resemble Windows 7, offering a lightweight, ad-free experience with continued security updates through Oct 2032.
    – It requires minimal hardware (as low as 2 GB RAM and 1 GHz CPU) and does not require activation to function.
    – Using unofficial sources to install Classic 7 carries risks, including potential nefarious changes from developers.
    – Potential for improved performance in some games or as a weekend VM project, though results vary.


    Windows 11 may still be chasing some fancier bells and whistles, but many folks are itching for a simpler era where things felt less cluttered. The current OS landscape is noisy, and some corners of the community long for the days when things seemed more straightforward and less monetized. The nostalgia is strong, and the appeal of a leaner system persists across different user groups.

    Classic 7: a leaner path with security updates

    Enter Classic 7, a project that aims to resurrect the feel of earlier Windows while still receiving ongoing security updates. This setup is built on Windows 10 IoT (IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021), a pared-down edition that trims away features like the Xbox Game Bar, excessive advertising, and Microsoft Edge. It targets embedded devices and falls into a low-resource category, with a modest requirement of 2 GB RAM and a 1 GHz processor, which explains its “embedded” heritage in its naming.

    Security and licensing realities

    Since Windows 10 IoT is tailored toward industrial and retail contexts, it continues to receive security updates through October 2032. Licensing remains something you would need to sort on your own, but for testing purposes, it can run without activation. This reality makes it a possible, if unofficial, gateway to experimenting with a Windows 7-like desktop experience on modern hardware.

    It’s important to note that obtaining the primary operating system from unofficial sources carries inherent risks. Implementing the Windows 7 desktop environment on a more current OS requires substantial modification, and the trust you place in the developers of Classic 7 to avoid nefarious changes is significant. The project exists in a gray area where caution is advised and user discretion is essential.

    Performance and usability implications

    There are anecdotal whispers that this approach may even yield better performance in some games, though results will understandably vary. Some users view it as a fun weekend project to explore in a virtual machine and test whether Windows 7 nostalgia holds up under modern hardware, offering a different flavor of experimentation than a standard upgrade path.

    Official purchasing paths and price points

    For those who prefer a fully official route, Windows 11 is occasionally listed with price points around typical consumer market prices, including figures comparable to retail promotions. When weighing options, consider what you value most: authenticity and support versus experimentation and lightweight configurations. The decision rests with the user, who must evaluate their own requirements and risk tolerance.


  • Plex Lifetime Pass Plunges/Triples to $750 as Monthly Price Unchanged

    Plex Lifetime Pass Plunges/Triples to $750 as Monthly Price Unchanged

    Key Takeaway

    – Plex announced a price hike for Lifetime Plex Pass from $249.99 to $749.99, effective July 1, 2026 (12:01 a.m. UTC).
    – Existing Lifetime Pass owners retain current benefits; monthly and yearly Plex Pass prices remain $6.99 and $69.99 (for now).
    – Plex cites long-term value and ongoing development as reasons to maintain a Lifetime option, despite the steep increase.
    – The move follows a previous Lifetime Pass price rise in March 2025, signaling a broader shift toward recurring subscriptions.


    Plex announced on May 19, 2025 that a major price change is coming, and the note was shared with readers on their official platforms. The company stated that the Lifetime Plex Pass would jump from $249.99 to $749.99 starting July 1, 2026, which is a tripling of the current price. The change will take effect at 12:01 a.m. UTC on July 1, 2026, so current users should be aware of the new policy.

    Pricing Impact and Current Protections

    Existing Lifetime Plex Pass holders will not see any changes or lose any benefits, and the existing monthly and yearly Plex Pass pricing will stay at $6.99 and $69.99 for now, the note emphasized. The company’s blog clarified this policy, aiming to reassure those already invested in the Lifetime Pass that their upgrades and features remain intact despite the future price shift.

    What Plex Said and Why

    Plex explained that, historically, they had considered eliminating the Lifetime Pass, since recurring subscriptions support long‑term development. Yet, they chose to keep the Lifetime Pass, but priced to reflect the ongoing value of the software they intend to build and maintain for years to come. The language suggested a balance between sustainability and user value, while acknowledging the evolving business model.

    People reacting online have been vocal about the steep price increase, in part because Plex had already raised the price once in the last year. Some observers feel that the Lifetime Pass is now less appealing, potentially nudging users toward monthly plans instead. The discussion highlighted concerns about whether a one‑time purchase still represents the best deal given the new economics.

    About Plex Pass and Its Features

    Plex is a media management and streaming solution that lets you turn a computer or NAS into a personal media server. It enables storing movies, TV shows, and music and streaming them to phones, tablets, TVs, and other devices. Most content remains under local control, unlike some cloud‑dependent services that demand constant online access.

    • Hardware‑accelerated transcoding
    • Mobile syncing
    • Remote access
    • More advanced library management tools

    The Plex Pass brings these extras, but the price change for Lifetime has raised questions about value versus ongoing subscription costs. This marks the second notable price adjustment for Lifetime Pass within roughly a year, following a March 2025 increase from $119.99 to $249.99, with the new cap of $749.99 slated for July 1, 2026.

    What This Means for Decisions Today

    If you’re still undecided, consider whether to lock in a one‑time upfront payment before the new pricing takes effect. The timing favors early commitments if you want to avoid the higher future price, especially for those who anticipate heavy use of Plex’s premium features over many years. Conversely, potential subscribers might choose to explore the ongoing monthly plan as a more flexible alternative.

    In summary, Plex appears to be balancing long‑term customer retention and revenue certainty with the ongoing appeal of its service. The debate about Lifetime versus monthly pricing is likely to continue as users weigh their own streaming needs against the announced price trajectory for the Lifetime Plex Pass.

    Sources
  • Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro/Pro Max launch with on-device AI chip and AMOLED case display

    Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro/Pro Max launch with on-device AI chip and AMOLED case display

    Key Takeaway

    – Both Liberty 5 Pro and Liberty 5 Pro Max feature the Thus AI chip, 9.2 mm drivers with Dolby Atmos, an 8-mic noise reduction system, and Guinness World Records for clearest TWS calls, plus audio Super-Resolution and 20 voice commands.
    – Liberty 5 Pro adds Adaptive ANC 4.0 with five-level tuning via a mini touchscreen on the case, plus Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio with head tracking and HearID 5.0; colorways include Midnight, Titanium Blue, Titanium Pink, Cloud White.
    – Liberty 5 Pro Max upgrades with a 1.78-inch AMOLED touchscreen on the case for ANC control, multipoint, display customization, and an AI Voice Recorder (on-device processing, transcripts, speaker summaries) with up to 12 hours of stored audio; available in Midnight and Champagne.


    Anker has just announced two flagship earbuds during Anker Day 2026 in New York City: the soundcore Liberty 5 Pro (€179.99) and Liberty 5 Pro Max (€249.99). They are both built around the company’s new Thus AI chip that promises up to 150x more processing power than the prior soundcore flagship generation, which is a bold claim aimed at boosting overall performance and efficiency.

    What’s inside and core specs

    Both models share the same 9.2 mm drivers with Dolby Atmos support, an 8-microphone noise reduction system, and a Guinness World Records certification for clearest TWS earbuds for phone calls. The lineup also includes features like audio Super-Resolution and 20 voice commands, standard across the range, which hints at a focus on clarity and hands-free control.

    Liberty 5 Pro: adaptive tech and personalised sound

    The Liberty 5 Pro differentiates itself with Adaptive ANC 4.0, which auto-adjusts to the environment and can be tuned across five levels via a mini touchscreen on the charging case. Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio with head tracking and HearID 5.0 personalised sound profiles complete the feature set. It arrives in Midnight, Titanium Blue, Titanium Pink, and Cloud White colorways, offering some variety for users.

    Meanwhile, the Liberty 5 Pro Max adds a larger on-device control experience with a 1.78-inch fully functional AMOLED touchscreen on the case for controlling ANC, multipoint pairing, and display customization. Its standout feature is an AI Voice Recorder — a double-tap on the case starts recording, with transcripts and speaker-identified summaries processed entirely on-device, no internet required. The case also stores up to 12 hours of audio and is offered in Midnight and Champagne colors.

    Availability and software

    Both models are available now on the soundcore website, along with major retail partners, with the brand also rolling out VibeOS, a new AI layer in the soundcore app featuring a voice assistant named Anka for hands-free device management.


    Sources

    • Ubiquiti UniFi 5G Backup Device $99

      Ubiquiti UniFi 5G Backup Device $99

      Key Takeaway

      – 5G Backup WWAN adds a 5G fallback layer to existing UniFi gateways, using an Ethernet-connected antenna stick with no internal power source (requires PoE).
      – Supports eSIM and SIM slot; in the US, can operate without a physical SIM thanks to a T-Mobile partnership (likely using an eSIM profile).
      – Uses RedCap (reduced-capability 5G) for IoT-oriented features; speeds around 10% faster than LTE backup, but prioritizes reliability over high throughput.
      – Requires a cloud gateway in the network to function; price is about $99 for the antenna stick.


      Overview

      Ubiquiti has announced the UniFi 5G Backup WWAN backup solution. According to the manufacturer, the fallback solution can add a 5G connection as a backup layer to any current gateway. UniFi 5G Backup is a simple antenna stick solution that can be mounted to a wall, for example. A status display shows current connection information. The antenna connects via Ethernet and is automatically integrated into the UniFi network. However, since the device does not have a power connector, it requires a port with Power over Ethernet support.

      Global Availability and SIM Options

      At least in the US, UniFi is cooperating with T-Mobile US. The stick can therefore be used without inserting a SIM card. However, there is still a SIM card slot. According to Ubiquiti, the device has no SIM lock. The eSIM standard is also supported. Presumably, the T-Mobile SIM is stored as an eSIM profile. Whether there is a partner in Europe cannot be determined from the technical specifications provided for Europe. Ultimately, that only means sysadmins need one additional step, which is rarely required.

      Technical Basis

      Technically, the 5G solution uses the RedCap principle, short for reduced capabilities, which the GSMA has been promoting for some time primarily for IoT applications. This means that 5G features have been implemented, but speed is not a high priority. Accordingly, the backup solution is only around 10% faster in 5G mode than when the backup connects via LTE (220 vs. 195 Mbps). However, the stick should benefit from the reliability improvements that 5G can offer.

      Pricing and Ordering

      The antenna can already be ordered and costs around $99 at the brand’s official US store. The antenna can only be used if there is a (cloud) gateway in the network.

      Sources
    • Ex-Samsung Exec: Chinese DRAM Could End Shortage

      Ex-Samsung Exec: Chinese DRAM Could End Shortage

      Key Takeaway

      – Chinese DRAM capacity growth could alleviate the global shortage and push RAM prices down by H2 2027 to early 2028.
      – Korea should pivot from pure hardware leadership to fabless semiconductors and sovereign AI to remain competitive.
      – The current DRAM market is concentrated (SK Hynix, Samsung, Micron); increased Chinese output could relieve supply constraints but ROI signals may temper investment.


      Overview of Kyung’s Prediction on DRAM Capacity

      Khe-Hyun Kyung, current Samsung senior advisor and former head of its Samsung Device Solutions (DS) division, projects that boosts Chinese DRAM production capacity should see RAM prices drop in a year from now, starting in roughly H2 2027 or the beginning of 2028. He made this argument at the 285th NAEK Forum, which is hosted by the National Academy of Engineering in Korea, and pointed out that since Korea holds nearly 70% of the DRAM market, manufacturers need to prepare.

      Implication for Korea and Global Supply

      Kyung’s proposed solution is that Korea pivot toward fabless system semiconductors and sovereign AI, noting that “It is difficult for Korea to compete simultaneously with the U.S. and China in both hardware and software” and that Korea must “seriously consider how to deploy AI.” So, there’s certainly good news for consumers there. While it’s unclear whether or not Chinese-manufactured RAM will be allowed Stateside anytime soon, China being able to produce its own would still free up a large amount of global supply for customers elsewhere in the world. Kyung estimates that Chinese production capacity could go as high as six million wafers per month in H2 2027, but also warns that production investments could drop if firms see ROI on AI capital investments drop.

      Possible Outcomes for the DRAM Market

      In any case, it’s still tantalizing to see a potential end to the current DRAM shortage strangling the worldwide PC market. Increased output from China can only be a good thing for the market at large when the current supply choke feeds just three companies: SK Hynix and Samsung in Korea, and Micron in the United States.

      Long-Term Forecast and Risks

      Earlier estimates of an end to the DRAM supply crisis start around 2030 or 2035, so prices dropping by 2028 thanks to China building large domestic supply would be a massive win for consumers and businesses alike. While the most major Big Tech and AI companies are doing just fine in these conditions, a multitude of smaller-scale businesses in consumer electronics are suffering and shutting down. These conditions bode poorly for consumers at large in the long-term, and if the shortage truly extends into the 2030s, the damage may be irreversible.

      Sources
    • Ayaneo Unveils Konkr Pocket Block AI Handheld

      Ayaneo Unveils Konkr Pocket Block AI Handheld

      Key Takeaway

      – Ayaneo officially unveils the Konkr Pocket Block, billed as the world’s first AI handheld, with a compact, retro-cyber design and lightweight form factor.
      – The device runs Android with Ayaneo’s custom UI and is expected to include Ayaneo’s new emulator, though specific AI features are not yet revealed.
      – It features a touch display, stereo speakers, an audio jack, and shoulder buttons, and will be showcased alongside existing Pocket Vert and Pocket DMG models for size comparison.


      Ayaneo has officially revealed the Konkr Pocket Block, a vertical handheld that the company touts as the world’s first AI handheld. After a prior leak, the launch happened during a product sharing session, Ayaneo’s first in several months. No technical specs were disclosed in detail, but two color options were showcased, and the design is described as a fusion of retro aesthetics with a cyber-inspired design language.

      Design and size

      In style, the Konkr Pocket Block is pitched as lightweight and compact. A still image from the sharing session indicates it sits noticeably smaller than the Pocket Vert and the Pocket DMG vertical handhelds, with a comparison to several devices shown in a YouTube video. The overall impression is that it could easily fit into a pocket, reminiscent of the TrimUI Brick in terms of portability.

      AI features and expectations

      On the AI front, Ayaneo states in a press release that the Konkr Pocket Block will “deliver a smarter and more immersive gaming experience while staying true to the essence of portable gaming.” Even though CEO Arthur Zhang demonstrated a working unit during the event, the specifics of the AI features remained undisclosed here, leaving enthusiasts curious about what intelligence actually powers the handheld.

      Hardware, software, and availability

      The Konkr Pocket Block includes a touch display, stereo speakers, an audio jack, and shoulder buttons. It is set to run Android out of the box and will feature Ayaneo’s custom UI. It’s also anticipated to include Ayaneo’s new emulator, which debuted on the Pocket Air Mini Arcade Home Limited Edition. While no official price was announced at launch, the device is expected to be affordable as it’s released under the Konkr brand.

      Sources
    • Denuvo Added to 007 First Light 6 Days Before Launch Date

      Denuvo Added to 007 First Light 6 Days Before Launch Date

      Key Takeaway

      – Publishers are increasingly adding Denuvo DRM closer to game launches, provoking backlash from players and concerns about accessibility and performance.
      – Player responses are mixed to negative, with pre-orders at risk of cancellation, and warnings about intrusive authentication and potential impact on frame rates.
      – Public demand includes clearer DRM disclosures and more transparency from publishers/Valve, amid worries about long-term accessibility and the effectiveness of anti-piracy measures.


      Overview

      In a growing trend, publishers continue to add Denuvo DRM to Steam games closer to launch. IO Interactive’s upcoming James Bond thriller is the latest example. Just 6 days before the 007 First Light release date, the disclaimer is now visible on Valve’s marketplace. Prices and specifications are retained from the original text for accuracy.

      DRM and Industry Reaction

      Irdeto’s DRM remains a popular way to curb piracy, even though the hypervisor bypass overcomes the protection. Other recent Denuvo games include Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. Its fans learned of its existence about 2 weeks ahead of its debut. Crimson Desert players had less warning in March, prompting outrage. Critics and gamers alike express mixed feelings about the approach, with some citing potential long-term accessibility issues and intrusive server checks on PCs.

      Public Sentiment

      Not surprisingly, gamers are not welcoming the news on Reddit and Steam forums. Buyers have threatened to cancel 007 First Light pre-orders, which began in September 2025. Critics have concerns about the game’s long-term accessibility and intrusive server authentication on PCs. Some posts reflect frustration with the timing and perceived transparency, while others emphasize ongoing skepticism about DRM effectiveness.

      Performance and Requirements

      Another worry is that Denuvo will impact performance. Its effects vary, but marginal differences were detected in Resident Evil Requiem. IO Interactive’s project already drew skepticism when it listed its memory-hungry system requirements. However, after a two-month release date delay, previews highlight optimized visuals. The balance between protection and playability remains a central topic of discussion among players and reviewers alike.

      Community Responses

      Even if frame rates are stable, some James Bond fans are allocating their money elsewhere. Posts in the Steam game’s forum condemn the late confirmation of the anti-piracy tactic. Redditors are also upset, with etakarine canceling a 007 First Light pre-order, calling the move “scummy behavior.” These reactions showcase a broader debate about DRM ethics and consumer choice, with many urging clearer communication from publishers.

      Calls for Transparency

      One request is for Valve to require publishers to include Denuvo disclaimers before accepting orders. There have been similar complaints about generative AI-related notifications. In several instances, the presence of machine-generated assets wasn’t known until after launches. The call for upfront notices aligns with a wider demand for honesty in how games are marketed and protected on launch day.

      Outlook

      Some observers question why companies are still embracing the DRM. By the 007 First Light release date, it’s possible pirates will crack the title. The hypervisor bypass requires disabling certain Windows security settings, limiting its appeal. On the other hand, recent arrivals like Pragmata have seen the protection cracked without needing the workaround. The ongoing tension between anti-piracy measures and user experience remains unresolved as the release nears.

       


    • Forza Horizon 6: Popular Mod, But Installation Fails

      Forza Horizon 6: Popular Mod, But Installation Fails

      Key Takeaway

      – Spotify Radio mod for FH6 streams Spotify through the in-game Streamer Mode station, displaying live metadata on HUD and functioning like a native radio station.
      – Requires Spotify Premium and uses Spotify Connect to integrate with the game’s radio.
      – The mod has been quarantined on Nexus Mods due to a DLL that tweaks game launch, leading to blocked downloads until safety review is completed.


      Overview

      It’s only been two days since the general global launch of Forza Horizon 6, and the game has smashed multiple records for Microsoft. The latest instalment in the long-running franchise is seeing massive concurrent player peaks with an active community around it. That includes the modding community, and among many interesting mods is one that makes the game even more fun. There must be some buzz around it that keeps players talking and exploring new tweaks, even with some risks involved.

      Spotify Radio Mod

      The mod in question is Spotify Radio by BigJohn0. It’s exactly as it sounds, and those who use Spotify for their music can integrate it into Forza Horizon 6’s radio. It uses Spotify Connect to stream music through the Streamer Mode station. With the mod installed, Spotify interprets your PC as “FH6 Radio,” which sends music to the in-game Streamer Mode station. This linkage creates a novel way to customize in-game audio using familiar music accounts, which fans find particularly appealing for long play sessions.

      HUD and Native Feel

      What’s even cooler is that the game shows live titles and artist metadata on the HUD. On top of that, because it’s integrated into the game’s radio station, it behaves like a native radio station with volume controls, menu fades, and more. It should be noted that you do need Spotify Premium for this to work. The experience tries to mimic a seamless radio experience, while pulling real-time data from Spotify, which adds a layer of immersion that some players find very appealing despite the setup steps required.

      Limitations and Safety

      But the massive downer, you can’t install it. The mod has been quarantined on Nexus Mods because it uses a ‘.dll’ file that tweaks the game’s launch, which is how some malware attacks happen. Therefore, Nexus Mods has blocked downloads for the general public. The platform will review the file, and if it is deemed to be safe, the files will be available once again. Till then, you’ll have to stick with the in-game radio stations. This kind of risk and security concern is not unusual with powerful mods that touch core game behavior, so players weigh convenience against potential safety issues.

      BigJohn0 on Nexus Mods, Steamdb


      Sources

    • Zerowriter Fold: Modern e-ink Typewriter with 100-Hour Battery

      Zerowriter Fold: Modern e-ink Typewriter with 100-Hour Battery

      Key Takeaway

      – Focused writing device: minimizes distractions by prioritizing long-form writing on a 6″ e-ink foldable screen with up to 100 hours of battery life.
      – Customizable typing experience: replaceable low-profile keyboard switches and USB keyboard compatibility to tailor feel and workflow.
      – Practical features for writers: SD card storage, QR code export to smartphones, bookmarks, and configurable text types/sizes.


      Overview of the Zerowriter Fold

      the Zerowriter Fold is presented as a modern typewriter aimed at people who want to write longer texts with minimal distractions. it emphasizes focus over multitasking, positioning itself as a device that reduces the pull of a computer or laptop. the description keeps a casual, somewhat promotional tone, and notes that the appeal lies partly in its simplicity and dedicated writing experience.

      Display and form factor

      unlike many devices that rely on bright LCDs, this gadget uses an e-ink panel. the display size is listed as 6 inches diagonally, and the screen is part of a foldable design, which supposedly adds portability and protection when folded. power efficiency is highlighted as a benefit of e-ink, with the expectation that it helps with longer writing sessions without frequent recharges.

      Hardware and connectivity

      the Zerowriter Fold includes a low-profile keyboard with switches that can be swapped out, offering a way to customize the typing feel. it can function as a USB keyboard, and it supports saving texts to an SD card. there’s also a feature to export text to a smartphone via a QR code, suggesting an integrated ecosystem for moving content between devices.

      Software features and navigation

      configuration options cover text types and sizes, among other things, and bookmarks are supported to aid navigation through longer documents. the combination of adjustable settings and bookmarking hints at a system designed for lengthy writing projects rather than quick notes.

      Pricing and timeline

      as part of a crowdfunding campaign, the current price starts at roughly 239 dollars. buyers should be aware of the financial risks common to crowdfunding. shipping costs are added on top, and delivery is not scheduled until January 2027, indicating a long lead time before product availability.

      Manufacturing and campaign notes

      the text notes that this is a crowdfunding effort, which implies potential buyers may face uncertainties associated with product development, manufacturing delays, and fulfillment timelines. the folding design and focus on a distraction-free writing experience are highlighted as core selling points, while the overall package remains focused on writing rather than general computing tasks.

      Sources
    • Disco Elysium Studio’s Second Game Launches, Sparks Steam Controversy

      Disco Elysium Studio’s Second Game Launches, Sparks Steam Controversy

      Key Takeaway

      – The game released on Windows via Steam for $39.99, with a PS5 version planned later this year; Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch 2 versions are not planned.
      – Early reception is mixed: about 2,300 concurrent Steam players and a Metascore of 83, below Disco Elysium’s 91, with 111 Steam reviews currently labeled “balanced.”
      – Controversy surrounding the developer studio (ZA/UM) and a hostile takeover in 2021–2022 is a major factor in the negative sentiment toward the game, not necessarily the game itself.
      – The game closely echoes Disco Elysium in art style, perspective, and emphasis on dialogue, creative problem-solving, and the main character’s psyche over combat.


      Zero Parades: For Dead Spies was released today for Windows PCs, and can be purchased on Steam for $39.99. A version for Sony PlayStation 5 will follow later this year, versions for Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch 2 ($449 on Amazon) are currently not planned.

      Overview Snapshot

      As a look at SteamDB shows, the game already has over 2,300 players playing the title at the same time. That’s pretty good for an indie adventure, even if the record of 8,081 players set by Disco Elysium is a long way off. In general, Zero Parades: For Dead Spies is not yet as well received as ZA/UM’s first game, as the Metascore of 83 out of a possible 100 points shows – Disco Elysium scored 91 points.

      Reception and Controversy

      Even more shocking: the 111 Steam reviews are currently “balanced” – not a result that developers would want for a new game. However, the negative reviews are largely not due to the game itself, but to a controversy involving the developer studio. The investors at ZA/UM forced the minds behind Disco Elysium out of the company in 2021 and 2022.

      Despite the hostile takeover of the studio, Zero Parades: For Dead Spies is inevitably reminiscent of Disco Elysium due to its unusual graphic style and isometric perspective. There are also overlaps in the gameplay, as the single-player role-playing game places more emphasis on dialog and creative solutions than on combat, while the psyche of the main character once again plays a central role.