Tag: ASUS

  • Asus Launches ROG Gaming Laptop Updates for Performance Fixes

    Asus Launches ROG Gaming Laptop Updates for Performance Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is addressing stuttering and performance issues in certain ROG gaming laptops after community feedback.
    2. An independent review reveals that ROG Scar, ROG Strix, and ROG Zephyrus models from 2021 onward share performance problems due to poorly designed ACPI firmware.
    3. TUF Gaming laptops, like the TUF Gaming A14, are not affected by these performance issues, despite using similar components.
    4. Asus has provided fixes only for the ROG Strix Scar 15 and the Zephyrus M16, both released in 2023.
    5. BIOS updates to fix the issues are currently in beta, with more updates expected soon, but no specific timelines have been shared.


    Asus has taken steps to tackle the ‘stuttering and performance interruptions’ that have been reported in certain ROG gaming laptops. The company acknowledged receiving feedback from the community about these problems nearly two weeks ago.

    Investigation Findings

    In a recent independent review, Linus Sebastian highlights that ROG Scar, ROG Strix, and ROG Zephyrus gaming laptops made from 2021 onward are experiencing similar performance problems, no matter their specifications. The root cause of these issues is linked to poorly designed ACPI firmware, which does not efficiently manage APUs or CPUs, leading to increased latency.

    Unaffected Models

    According to the detailed technical investigation, TUF Gaming laptops, such as the TUF Gaming A14, seem to be unaffected by these issues, despite using many of the same components found in ROG Scar, ROG Strix, or ROG Zephyrus models. Currently, the TUF Gaming A14 is priced at $1,749 on Amazon. The tweet below points out that Asus has only provided fixes for the ROG Strix Scar 15 (G533ZW) and the Zephyrus M16 (GU604VI), both of which were released in 2023.

    Future Updates

    Asus has indicated that the available BIOS updates are still in beta. It is likely that more fixes for other laptop models will come soon, but unfortunately, Asus has not shared any specific timelines for these updates. For further information on the ACPI firmware issue, please refer to the Asus gaming laptop technical investigation.

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  • Asus ROG Raikiri II Wireless Controller Price Leak Revealed

    Asus ROG Raikiri II Wireless Controller Price Leak Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus and Microsoft are taking pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally X and the ROG Xbox Ally, priced at $599.99 on Amazon.
    2. Microsoft has launched official accessories for Asus’ new gaming handhelds.
    3. Sales for the ROG Raikiri II wireless controller have not started yet, despite its recent reveal at Gamescom 2025.
    4. A leaker predicts a launch price of $189.99 for the new ROG Raikiri II controller, marking a 26% increase from the previous model.
    5. The timeline for pre-orders of the ROG Raikiri II controller is currently uncertain.


    Asus and Microsoft have begun taking pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally X and the more affordable ROG Xbox Ally, which is currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon. In addition, Microsoft has recently introduced official accessories designed for Asus’ new gaming handhelds. Curiously, sales for the ROG Raikiri II wireless controller, which was officially revealed last month at Gamescom 2025, have not yet commenced.

    Pricing Expectations

    In the meantime, billbil-kun has leaked some pricing predictions for Asus’ upcoming wireless controller. To summarize, the leaker had previously anticipated that Asus would eventually roll out a Pro version of the ROG Raikiri II, similar to the earlier Raikiri and Raikiri Pro models. However, it seems that this might not be happening right away, at least not as initially thought.

    Launch Pricing Details

    Instead, billbil-kun now claims that Asus has decided on a launch price of $189.99 for the new controller in the US. For reference, this price is a 26% hike compared to the ROG Raikiri Pro, which comes with extra features like a 1.3-inch OLED display. Unfortunately, the timeline for when the ROG Raikiri II will be available for pre-order remains uncertain. For more details, refer to our launch article covering Asus’ latest wireless controller.

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  • Asus ROG Xbox Ally Price Leaked by UK Retailer – Cheaper Than Expected

    Asus ROG Xbox Ally Price Leaked by UK Retailer – Cheaper Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Xbox Ally is expected to retail for £499.99, according to a leak from UK retailer Argos.
    2. Pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally may begin soon, although details about the ROG Xbox Ally X’s pricing remain unclear.
    3. In Europe, the ROG Xbox Ally was previously listed at €599, while speculation places the ROG Xbox Ally X at around £799.
    4. In the U.S., potential prices are $549.99 for the Ryzen Z2 and $899.99 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme models, but tariffs complicate direct comparisons.
    5. Microsoft is likely to reveal confirmed prices for both devices soon, with a release date set for October 16th and possible announcements at the Tokyo Game Show.


    Microsoft’s delay in revealing the price for the Asus ROG Xbox Ally hasn’t stopped retailers like Best Buy from dropping hints. The newest leak from UK retailer Argos suggests that the gaming handheld will retail for £499.99. An employee who shared the promotional documents thinks that pre-orders could start very soon. While this isn’t surprising, the ROG Xbox Ally might actually be a bit cheaper than what was previously thought.

    Missing Information

    Sadly, the advertisement doesn’t mention the more robust ROG Xbox Ally X. However, a Reddit user speculated that it might retail for £799. Back in July, gaming magazine 3DJuegos got some pricing details from an Asus partner store in Spain, where the ROG Xbox Ally was listed at €599, and the ROG Xbox Ally X at €899. While direct currency conversions can be tricky, these prices would roughly translate to about £523 and £785 for customers in the UK.

    Pricing Uncertainty

    For those in the United States, YouTuber Destin Legarie revealed some images from Best Buy, showing price tags of $549.99 for the Ryzen Z2 and $899.99 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme handhelds. Due to tariffs, figuring out the MSRPs in USD is complex. In Europe, prices usually include VAT, while U.S. sales tax is an extra cost. Still, if the leaks turn out to be accurate, the prices for these gaming devices are on the lower end of what was expected.

    Skepticism About Leaks

    There are reasons to be cautious about the Argos promotional materials. In one image, there’s a picture of the ROG Xbox Ally X with the £499.99 price listed below it. The source of these images acknowledges that the retailer has made mistakes in the past.

    Even with these uncertainties, it seems unlikely that Microsoft can keep delaying the MSRP for Windows 11 devices for much longer. The release date for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X is scheduled for October 16th. There’s a chance that consumers will finally get confirmed prices at the Tokyo Game Show. The company plans to showcase demos of the handhelds at the event and might drop an announcement during a press event on September 25th.

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  • Asus Mainboards Deliver 250W PCIe GPUs Without Power Cables

    Asus Mainboards Deliver 250W PCIe GPUs Without Power Cables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched motherboards in its BTF line that provide up to 600 watts to compatible graphics cards without needing extra power cables.
    2. A new concept motherboard can deliver 250 watts directly through PCIe 5.0 x16, replacing the standard 75 watts, but requires an additional 8-pin connector.
    3. The new design keeps the power cable less visible, although it doesn’t eliminate the need for it entirely.
    4. The concept motherboard is backward compatible, allowing prototype GPUs to work with older motherboards using standard 8-pin cables.
    5. The release date and availability of the new PCIe connector product remain uncertain, but it indicates potential for future innovations.


    Asus has already released motherboards in its BTF (Back to the Future) line that can supply compatible graphics cards with up to 600 watts. This means there’s no need for an extra power cable. The method utilizes a special connector located next to the PCIe slot, allowing the GPU power cable to connect directly to the motherboard. However, this setup has the downside of being compatible only with a limited range of Asus products.

    New Power Transfer Method

    In response, the company has come up with a concept motherboard capable of delivering up to 250 watts of power directly through PCIe 5.0 x16, replacing the standard 75 watts. Although this motherboard does need an additional 8-pin connector for power, it doesn’t completely get rid of the need for a power cable; instead, it just relocates it to a less visible spot. For context, 250 watts is sufficient to power an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 Ti, which is currently priced at $369 on Amazon.

    Compatibility and Future Prospects

    This innovative design is backward compatible, meaning that Asus’s prototype GPUs can still function with older motherboards, although they would need the standard 8-pin power cables in that scenario. At this point, the motherboard remains just a concept, and it’s not yet known if or when a product featuring this updated PCIe connector will be available for purchase. Nevertheless, this concept shows that a feasible solution could be developed without requiring significant alterations to the PCIe connector.

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  • Asus ExpertCenter PB64: Mini PC with Core Ultra 7 & 64GB RAM

    Asus ExpertCenter PB64: Mini PC with Core Ultra 7 & 64GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ExpertCenter PB64 is designed for professional users and can handle advanced tasks with options for powerful Intel Core Ultra processors.
    2. It supports up to 64GB of memory and can accommodate three storage devices, including two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs and a 2.5-inch drive.
    3. The compact design (6.9 x 6.9 x 1.7 inches) allows for connection to four monitors, featuring multiple video output options including DisplayPort and USB-C.
    4. Users can customize the PC with additional ports like HDMI, extra DisplayPort, or COM port for specialized devices, along with various USB and audio connections.
    5. The ExpertCenter PB64 is not yet available on mainstream online shops, but similar models like the Asus ExpertCenter PN54 are available for around €900 in Europe.


    Asus is a popular name in the gaming world, but it also has a presence in other areas, like business. The Asus ExpertCenter PB64 is aimed at professional users who need to equip an entire office. Depending on how it’s set up, this mini PC can handle more than just basic tasks, as it comes with options for Intel Core Ultra processors, including the Ultra 5 225, Ultra 5 235, Ultra 5 245, and even the Ultra 7 265. You can install up to 64GB of memory across two RAM slots, and it supports up to three storage devices. The mini PC can take two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs and also has space for a 2.5-inch drive that’s a maximum of 0.28 inches tall.

    Compact and Versatile Design

    The dimensions of the ExpertCenter PB64 are 6.9 x 6.9 x 1.7 inches, and it can be connected to four monitors simultaneously. To facilitate this, the desktop comes equipped with two DisplayPort 1.4 ports and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, which is capable of delivering up to 100 watts through USB PD. Additionally, there’s a USB 4 port located on the front. Depending on your needs, you can also order the mini PC with an extra HDMI 2.1 port, another DisplayPort 1.4, an additional Ethernet port with 2.5 Gbps, or a COM port that could be used for connecting devices like a scale. There are also USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 and Gen 1 ports, along with a 3.5mm audio jack. It’s possible to mount the PC on a monitor using a VESA mount as well. So far, the Asus ExpertCenter PB64 hasn’t appeared on mainstream online shops. In the meantime, fans of mini PCs might want to look at our review of the similar Asus ExpertCenter PN54, which retails for around €900 in Europe.

    Targeting Professionals

    Asus has made a name for itself not just in gaming, but also in various other markets. The ExpertCenter PB64 represents their push into the business sector, catering to professionals who require robust performance for office tasks. Depending on how you configure it, this mini PC goes beyond just handling basic word processing needs. It offers a choice of powerful Intel Core Ultra processors, such as the Ultra 5 225, Ultra 5 235, Ultra 5 245, and the more advanced Ultra 7 265. Memory options reach up to 64GB across two slots, and it supports three different storage drives. You can equip it with two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs, or even a 2.5-inch drive that has a maximum height of 0.28 inches.

    The compact size of the ExpertCenter PB64, measuring 6.9 x 6.9 x 1.7 inches, allows it to connect to four monitors, making it ideal for multitasking. It comes with two DisplayPort 1.4 ports and a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port capable of delivering up to 100 watts via USB PD, plus a USB 4 port on the front. Users can customize their setup with options like an HDMI 2.1 port, an additional DisplayPort 1.4, or even a COM port for specialized connectivity, such as to scales. It also includes USB-A 3.2 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack. The PC can be mounted on a monitor using VESA. Currently, the Asus ExpertCenter PB64 isn’t available on common online platforms, but for those interested in mini PCs, you might want to check out our review of the Asus ExpertCenter PN54, which is priced at about €900 in Europe.

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  • Asus Explains 720p Mode for ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W Monitor

    Asus Explains 720p Mode for ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W is the first monitor with a 540 Hz Tandem OLED panel.
    2. The monitor can switch between 2K at 540 Hz and 720p HD at 720 Hz for user flexibility.
    3. There was confusion about the refresh rates, with Asus clarifying the true capabilities after initial announcements.
    4. Pricing and availability for the monitor are not yet confirmed, with a possible launch in October or Q4 2025.
    5. Asus showcased multiple new devices, alongside a major focus on video games at Gamescom 2025.


    The recent Gamescom 2025 event, held from August 20 to August 24 in Cologne, has come to a close. While the primary focus was on video games, companies like Asus took the opportunity to unveil a variety of new devices. Among these were three gaming monitors that caught the attention of many.

    ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W Steals the Spotlight

    The standout among these monitors was the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, which made waves as the first display featuring a 540 Hz Tandem OLED panel. This monitor also boasts a unique feature similar to other Dual Mode monitors, such as the LG UltraGear OLED 32GX870A, which is currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon. While the UltraGear OLED can achieve 480 Hz by switching from 4K to 1080p, the PG27AQWP-W impressively ramps up to an astonishing 720 Hz.

    Clarification on Specs

    However, there was a bit of confusion during the announcement last week, as Asus and LG Display seemed to have not communicated clearly. As reported by The Verge, both companies claimed that the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W could reach 720 Hz at 1080p. But, as anticipated, this turned out to be inaccurate. Asus has since clarified the situation, stating that:

    The ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W’s dual-mode technology allows users to choose between stunning 2K at 540 Hz or esports-focused 720p HD at 720 Hz, providing flexibility based on whether resolution or refresh rate is more important.

    Pricing and Release Date

    Details regarding pricing and availability are still not confirmed. TFT Central indicates a possible launch in October, with Asus hinting at a Q4 2025 release during Gamescom 2025. For more in-depth technical information about the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, please refer to our previous article.

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  • Asus ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2: 3 Key Upgrades Explained

    Asus ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2: 3 Key Upgrades Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2 monitor, confirmed during Computex 2025.
    2. The new model features a TrueBlack Glossy coating for improved black shades in various lighting conditions.
    3. It includes a Neo Proximity Sensor to reduce panel burn-in by switching to a black screen when not in use.
    4. The stand design is 30% smaller than the previous model.
    5. Key specifications like 1440p resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 1,300 nits peak brightness remain unchanged from last year’s version.


    Asus has officially launched the anticipated ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG refresh. To summarize, during Computex 2025 in May, TFT Central reported that the company confirmed this new release would happen. Although details about pricing and availability are still unclear, the new model is now recognized as the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2.

    New Offerings

    Alongside the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQWMG and ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2 does not feature a new WOLED panel like its siblings that were also unveiled today. However, this new monitor seems to have three primary benefits over last year’s ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG (currently priced at $699 on Amazon).

    Key Features

    One significant improvement is the adoption of the TrueBlack Glossy coating, which is also present in the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG, XG32UCWMG, and the new ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W. To summarize, Asus describes the TrueBlack Glossy technology as follows:

    The TrueBlack Glossy film combines a zero-haze optical layer with a sophisticated anti-reflective stack. The zero-haze layer ensures that black shades remain intact under various lighting conditions, enabling the monitor to present deep blacks even in well-lit spaces. For gamers who desire high-quality images throughout the day—not just during night hours—these monitors are excellent choices.

    Additional Technologies

    Furthermore, Asus has incorporated its Neo Proximity Sensor, which will switch the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2 to a black screen when it senses that you are not actively using the monitor. This Time of Flight (ToF) sensor is designed to help reduce panel burn-in, although the real effectiveness of this feature won’t be fully realized for a couple of years. Lastly, the Gen 2 model has a stand that is 30% smaller than the original ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG. All other specifications, including its 1440p resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 1,300 nits peak brightness, remain the same as last year’s version.

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  • Asus Launches Android 16 Beta for ROG Phone 9 & 9 Pro

    Asus Launches Android 16 Beta for ROG Phone 9 & 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has released the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro with Android 15, committing to only two OS updates for these devices.
    2. The Android 16 Beta Program is now open exclusively for the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro, but not for the ROG Phone 9 FE.
    3. The ROG Phone 9 series is priced at €999 on Amazon.de, with Android 17 expected as the second update next year.
    4. To join the Android 16 Beta, users must enroll through the Settings app, agreeing to the notice and privacy policy.
    5. The beta software may have bugs, and users cannot revert to a stable version until the official Android 16 release.


    The ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro have just been released with Android 15, and although other brands are offering more, Asus has committed to providing only two OS updates for these flagship devices. Recently, the first of those updates has been announced. Asus is now opening the Android 16 Beta Program, which comes shortly after the Zenfone 12 Ultra’s Android 16 beta launch.

    Beta Program Details

    This Beta program is exclusively for the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro. Unfortunately, the ROG Phone 9 FE, which was launched in February, is not part of this program and will also be limited to just two OS upgrades. Nonetheless, Android 16 represents one of the two updates for the ROG Phone 9 series, which is priced at €999 on Amazon.de, with the second update being Android 17 expected to arrive next year.

    How to Join the Beta

    Joining the Android 16 Beta program is pretty easy. First, open the Settings app, then go to System and choose System update. Click on the gear icon located in the top right corner, and select ‘Enroll in Android preview program.’ After that, read the notice and privacy policy before clicking ‘Agree.’ Just follow the remaining instructions to complete the process.

    Important Notes

    Keep in mind that this software is in beta, meaning you might encounter some bugs, which could be serious or minor. Asus has also stated that there won’t be a way to revert back to a stable version of Android, so you will remain on the beta until the official Android 16 is released. Asus hasn’t specified how long the beta testing will last, so stay tuned for updates!

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  • Asus Launches ROG NUC (2025) Gaming Mini-PC with RTX 5080 GPU

    Asus Launches ROG NUC (2025) Gaming Mini-PC with RTX 5080 GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has expanded the availability of the ROG NUC (2025) to the Eurozone and the UK, in addition to the US.
    2. The official price for the ROG NUC (2025) in the UK is now £1,999.99, down from higher import costs.
    3. In the Eurozone, the ROG NUC (2025) is priced at €2,156.90 directly from Asus.
    4. Asus has introduced the NUC 15 Performance, which features similar hardware but a simpler design compared to the ROG NUC (2025).
    5. Prices for Asus’ GeForce RTX 5080 laptop variant are being reduced, with some retailers offering it for €2,846 instead of the listed €3,415.


    Asus has recently broadened the reach of its ROG NUC (2025) after some retailers started selling the impressive mini-PC worldwide over a week ago. Interestingly, Asus has also introduced the NUC 15 Performance, which shares similar hardware but features a more simplified design compared to the ROG NUC (2025).

    Expanding Availability

    Now, both the Eurozone and the UK are joining the US in welcoming the official launch of the ROG NUC 2025 (curr. $2,799 on Amazon). Before this, customers could only import the mini-PC from Amazon US, resulting in significantly higher costs. For example, Amazon UK was offering the ROG NUC (2025) for £2,086 as an import from Amazon US, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, a Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti laptop GPU, 16 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD.

    New Pricing

    However, this model is now available directly from Asus for £1,999.99. In the Eurozone, the same model is priced at €2,156.90. Additionally, retailers have started to reduce prices on Asus’ GeForce RTX 5080 laptop variant. Although this SKU is listed at €3,415, it can already be found for €2,846 at Computer Universe and Cyberport. For more detailed information about the latest gaming-focused mini-PC from Asus, it’s best to check their official website.

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  • Asus Launches NUC 15 Mini-PCs with Nvidia RTX 5060 and 5070

    Asus Launches NUC 15 Mini-PCs with Nvidia RTX 5060 and 5070

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched the ROG NUC (2025) globally, priced at $2,799.
    2. The NUC 15 Performance mini-PC has been officially announced after a delay, featuring Intel Core Ultra 7 or 9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 or 5070 GPUs.
    3. Key specifications include multiple DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 ports, several USB Type-A ports, and dual SO-DIMM and M.2 2280 slots in a compact chassis.
    4. The NUC 15 Performance is available for order in the Eurozone, starting at €1,632 (~$1,895) for the Core Ultra 7 model and up to €1,955 (~$2,271) for the Core Ultra 9 version.
    5. Both NUC 15 Performance models are barebone units, and pricing details may vary by retailer.


    Asus has finally launched the much-anticipated ROG NUC (2025) worldwide after revealing it back in January during the CES 2025 event (curr. $2,799 on Amazon). The company has also revisited the NUC 15 Performance, a mini-PC that looks quite similar but skips some of the flashy features seen in the ROG NUC (2025).

    NUC 15 Performance Announcement

    To give a quick refresher, the NUC 15 Performance was first spotted on Asus’ global site around three months prior. For some unknown reason, it took until today for the official announcement to come through. In the time that has passed, it seems like there have been almost no changes to the device. The NUC 15 Performance still features either Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX or Core Ultra 9 275HX processors, along with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 or GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPUs.

    Specs and Features

    Asus has provided more information, stating that the NUC 15 Performance includes two DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 ports each. Furthermore, this mini-PC is equipped with several USB Type-A ports, consisting of two USB 2.0 ports alongside four USB 3.2 Gen2 ports. To top it all off, Asus has packed all this hardware plus dual SO-DIMM and M.2 2280 slots into a compact chassis measuring 282.4 x 189.55 x 56.6 mm and weighing 3.12 kg.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, the global pricing is still unclear. However, the NUC 15 Performance can be ordered in the Eurozone from retailers like Compute Universe and Cyberport. As of now, the price starts at €1,632 (~$1,895) for the Core Ultra 7 255HX model and goes up to €1,955 (~$2,271) for the Core Ultra 9 275HX version. Both options are barebone units. For additional details, it’s best to check Asus’ website.

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