Tag: Nintendo Switch 2

  • Nintendo Switch 3 May Feature Intel Lunar Lake GPU Amid Price Cuts

    Nintendo Switch 3 May Feature Intel Lunar Lake GPU Amid Price Cuts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has not yet started shipping the Switch 2, and updates for the Switch Lite and Switch OLED are still a few years away.
    2. Analyst John Vinh believes Intel has secured a deal with Nintendo for technology related to the upcoming console, using its 18A manufacturing method.
    3. Intel has cut prices of its Lunar Lake processors by up to 40% to improve market presence, leading to more affordable laptops.
    4. Price reductions for Lunar Lake processors are already reflected in current laptop prices, such as the Asus Zenbook S 14.
    5. The anticipated Switch 3 may use chipsets from various suppliers and is not guaranteed to feature an Intel-based GPU or Xe² architecture.

    Nintendo hasn’t begun shipping the Switch 2 yet. Similarly, likely updates for the Switch Lite and Switch OLED (currently priced at $346.99 on Amazon) are still a few years off at best. Despite this, analysts are already making predictions about the third-generation models.

    Analyst Insights

    Specifically, John Vinh from KeyBanc is quite sure that Intel has landed a deal with Nintendo for the technology behind the upcoming console. He mentions that Intel will utilize its 18A manufacturing method, which is set to enter mass production in the latter half of this year.

    Price Reductions

    Additionally, Vinh emphasizes that Intel has reduced the prices of its Lunar Lake processors by as much as 40% to enhance its market presence, even if it means lower profits. Normally, these price cuts take some time to reach consumers, but laptops using processors from the Lunar Lake series are already much more affordable than when they first came out. For instance, the Asus Zenbook S 14 is available with options ranging from the Core Ultra 5 226V to the Core Ultra 9 288V at reduced prices.

    Future Possibilities

    It’s important to note that this does not imply that the anticipated Switch 3 will come equipped with an Intel-based GPU, much less one that utilizes the Xe² architecture. Instead, Vinh suggests that Intel Foundry will produce chipsets for the Switch 3, which may come from suppliers like AMD, Nvidia, Qualcomm, or even Intel itself.

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  • Physical Switch 2 Edition Games Include Game and Upgrade Pack

    Physical Switch 2 Edition Games Include Game and Upgrade Pack

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces “Switch 2 Edition” games that include both the base game and an upgrade pack on the physical card, eliminating the need for downloads.
    2. A Nintendo spokesperson confirmed that Switch 2 Edition game cards will contain both the original Nintendo Switch game and its upgrade pack, allowing for resale and sharing.
    3. Some third-party publishers may offer Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games as download codes within physical packaging, but these will not include game cards.
    4. The Switch 2 will support exclusive titles designed for the new console, as well as compatible original Switch games and enhanced Switch 2 Edition games.
    5. A few announced Switch 2 Edition games include The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Kirby and The Forgotten Land, Super Mario Party Jamboree, Pokemon Legends: Z-A, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 was revealed on April 2, and the company introduced a slightly different way to categorize games that will be compatible with the new console. One of the new categories is the Switch 2 Edition games, which will come in physical form that includes both the base game and an upgrade page. Reports suggest that the upgrade pack will be included on the card itself, meaning no downloads will be necessary.

    Clarification on Game Cards

    After the announcement of the console, there was some uncertainty regarding what the Switch 2 Edition game cards would contain. Some sources indicated that the physical card would only feature the game itself, while the upgrade pack would only be available via a download code. However, a Nintendo spokesperson has since clarified to Vooks that the physical game card for the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will include “the original Nintendo Switch game and its upgrade pack all on the same game card (i.e. they are exclusively Nintendo Switch 2 game cards, with no download code).” As a result, customers who buy physical cards for Switch 2 Edition games will have the ability to resell or share the entire game with others, not just the original Switch game.

    Third-Party Releases

    The spokesperson also mentioned that some third-party publishers might choose to release Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games as download codes within physical packaging, but these would not include any game cards.

    The Switch 2 will support exclusive games designed for the Switch 2, along with compatible Switch games and Switch 2 Edition games. The Switch 2 Edition games are essentially enhanced versions of original Switch games, upgraded to utilize the greater power and visual capabilities of the new console. So far, only a few Switch 2 Edition games have been announced, including The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Kirby and The Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World, Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, Pokemon Legends: Z-A, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, among others.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison

    Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hybrid Design: The Nintendo Switch 2 features a hybrid design with three modes (handheld, tabletop, TV) and detachable JoyCons for multiplayer gaming.

    2. Display: Both the Nintendo Switch 2 and ASUS ROG Ally have 1080p screens with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the Switch 2 has a larger 7.9-inch display compared to the ROG Ally’s 7-inch screen.

    3. Performance: The ROG Ally is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, offering robust performance for a wide range of PC games, while the Switch 2 includes a custom Nvidia processor for 4K gaming when docked.

    4. Game Library: The ROG Ally provides access to a vast library of PC games, whereas the Switch 2 is known for its exclusive titles like Mario and The Legend of Zelda.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025, at a price of $449.99, while the ROG Ally is already available, with prices ranging from $600 to $700.

    The handheld gaming market is becoming more competitive with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Since the original Switch came out, many new models have appeared, like the ASUS ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. We’ve already compared the Switch 2 to the Steam Deck, so now it’s time to see how Nintendo’s new device measures up against the ROG Ally.

    Design and Display Features

    A major perk of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its unique hybrid design. It offers flexibility with three different modes: handheld, tabletop, and TV. The JoyCons can be removed, which makes multiplayer gaming more enjoyable. It features a 7.9-inch LCD screen, boasting a 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.

    ASUS ROG Ally Overview

    In contrast, the ASUS ROG Ally resembles the Steam Deck more as a traditional gaming handheld. It has a 7-inch display surrounded by a conventional controller layout. Unlike the Switch, these controls are not detachable and are designed for solo gameplay. The ROG Ally also features a 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Performance and Game Library

    The ROG Ally is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, making it one of the more robust handhelds that can handle a wide range of PC games. This chip includes RDNA 3 graphics, 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. Its 40Wh battery pack runs the device, which weighs in at 608 grams. While battery life was critiqued, newer models like the ROG Ally X have made significant enhancements. The Ally X includes an 80Wh battery, 24GB of RAM, better joysticks, and improved cooling. Being a Windows PC, it provides access to a vast library of games from popular platforms such as Steam.

    Nintendo Switch 2 Specifications

    Although details about the hardware are scarce, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a custom Nvidia processor that supports 4K gaming when docked for TV play. Docking boosts the console’s performance, but it can still be used in handheld mode thanks to its 5,220mAh battery. Nintendo is famous for its beloved exclusive franchises, including Mario and The Legend of Zelda, offering unique gaming experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.

    Pricing and Final Thoughts

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for a release on June 5, 2025, priced at 449.99 US Dollars. In comparison, the ROG Ally comes in various configurations ranging from 600 to 700 US Dollars. However, unlike the Switch 2, it’s already on the market, including the upgraded Ally X model.

    Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the ASUS ROG Ally largely hinges on your gaming preferences. If you love Nintendo’s exclusive games and want the versatility of a hybrid console, the Switch 2 is a strong contender. On the other hand, the ROG Ally offers access to an extensive PC game library and includes Windows 11 features as well.

    Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison
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  • Lenovo, HP, Dell Halt US Shipments for Two Weeks Due to Tariffs

    Lenovo, HP, Dell Halt US Shipments for Two Weeks Due to Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Razer will stop selling products in the US due to tariffs imposed by President Trump.
    2. Nintendo has postponed pre-orders for the Switch 2 for similar tariff-related reasons.
    3. Major companies like Lenovo, HP, Dell, and Asus are delaying shipments to the US by at least two weeks.
    4. PC hardware components, including high-end Nvidia graphics cards, may face shortages and increased prices.
    5. Some manufacturers are negotiating tariff-sharing arrangements, while others plan to continue shipping as usual.

    Razer has announced that it will stop selling its products in the US due to tariffs imposed by President Trump. Prior to this, Nintendo also postponed pre-orders for the Switch 2 for similar reasons. If you were considering switching your Razer Blade for a comparable model from another manufacturer, you may find it difficult. According to Commercial Times, several other significant companies have chosen to halt shipments to the US.

    Major Companies Affected

    This list includes well-known brands such as Lenovo, HP, Dell, and A-Share (which seems to be a misinterpretation of Asus). Shipments have been delayed by two weeks, and they could be postponed further if the situation does not improve soon. The affected items encompass laptops, smartphones, and various network communication devices. However, not everything is bleak. A few manufacturers are negotiating tariff-sharing arrangements with their customers, while others plan to continue shipping as usual.

    Impact on PC Components

    It remains uncertain whether PC hardware components will be impacted, but there is a strong likelihood that they will. High-end Nvidia graphics cards are already difficult to find, and their availability may diminish even more. Mid-range models will also eventually run low on stock, leading to increased prices for what is left. Regardless, for tech enthusiasts in the US, the upcoming weeks could prove to be challenging.

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  • Hollow Knight Silksong Switch 2 Physical Edition Release in 2025

    Hollow Knight Silksong Switch 2 Physical Edition Release in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Teaser Reveal: Hollow Knight: Silksong was showcased at the recent Nintendo Direct event, marking its return since 2019.

    2. Physical Release Confirmed: A Polish retailer listed a physical version of the game for Switch 2 with a release date set for 2025.

    3. Switch Compatibility: The game’s marketing team confirmed that both Switch and Switch 2 versions will be available.

    4. Potential Early Release: There are hints that Hollow Knight: Silksong could be released before fall and possibly on Xbox Game Pass by June.

    5. Legacy of Success: The original Hollow Knight was a major success, and expectations for Silksong’s performance are high, especially after its initial popularity on the Switch.

    It’s been a really tough time waiting for any news about Hollow Knight: Silksong since it was first shown in 2019. At the recent Nintendo Direct event for the Switch 2, the game finally made a comeback with a teaser video. Interestingly, a well-known Polish retailer has put up a listing for a physical version of the game for Switch 2, stating a release date in 2025.

    Big News for Gamers

    After Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2, fans felt sure that Hollow Knight: Silksong would arrive in 2025. Soon after the announcement, the marketing team for the game confirmed that both Switch and Switch 2 versions would be made. However, there was still uncertainty about whether the new console would have a potentially expensive physical version. The RTV Euro AGD page for the Switch 2 indicates that there will be a cartridge release. Sadly, no pricing info or specific availability details were provided.

    Hints of Hope

    There have been times when retailers like Amazon have listed games that ended up being postponed or even canceled. But now, six years later, it seems that this title is finally set to make its long-anticipated launch. Some leaks suggest that we might get a more exact release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong.

    The game was also featured in an advertisement for Game Worlds, an Australian gaming event, back in September. This event primarily showcases games that are already out, so there is optimism that Hollow Knight: Silksong could be released before fall. Additionally, there are rumors that it might be available on Xbox Game Pass by June. PC gamers have also noticed updates on Steam, including mentions of GeForce Now and a new copyright date for 2025.

    The Legacy of Hollow Knight

    The original Hollow Knight is a non-linear 2D platformer famed for its stunning artwork and satisfying combat. While Team Cherry’s game was launched on various platforms, it found significant success on the Switch handheld. After selling over 250,000 copies within its first two weeks, Hollow Knight: Silksong could very well achieve similar success when it releases.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed in Canada to Align with US

    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed in Canada to Align with US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the US and Canada have been delayed due to tariffs.
    2. Canadian pre-orders, originally set for April 9, have been put on hold indefinitely to align with the US schedule.
    3. The launch date for the Switch 2 is still confirmed for June 5, despite the pre-order delays.
    4. The US pricing is $450 for the console and $500 for the Mario Kart World bundle; Canadian prices are 630 CAD and 700 CAD, respectively.
    5. Despite tariff challenges, the Switch 2 is expected to be the fastest-selling console, with a projected 15 million units to be sold in 2025.

    Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the US have been pushed back due to tariffs, and Canada is now facing a similar situation. The handheld device was supposed to be available for pre-order in Canada starting April 9, the same as in the US, but this has now been put on hold indefinitely. Nintendo hasn’t given any updates on when the Switch 2 will be available for pre-order in either country.

    Pre-Order Timing Adjustments

    As reported by Mobile Syrup, Nintendo stated that pre-orders for the Switch 2 in Canada will not launch on April 9 “to align with the timing of pre-orders to be determined in the U.S.” More details will be shared later, but the launch date of June 5 is still set in stone, for the moment.

    Understanding the Delay Reasons

    The hold-up in pre-orders for the US is due to tariffs, as the company believes it needs to “assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions.” Canada’s delay in pre-orders isn’t much of a shock since it is one of the major countries affected by the tariffs that were put in place by President Trump’s administration.

    Pricing and Expectations

    The price for the Nintendo Switch 2 is set at $450 in the US, whereas the Mario Kart World bundle is priced at $500. In Canada, the console costs 630 CAD, and the bundle is at 700 CAD. The company is maintaining the June 5 launch date, suggesting that they anticipate the issues caused by tariffs and pricing concerns to settle by then.

    Even with the tariffs, the Switch 2 is projected to become the fastest-selling console ever, with an estimated 15 million units expected to be sold in 2025, even though sales will only start halfway through the year.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Expected to Sell 15 Million Units by Year-End

    Nintendo Switch 2 Expected to Sell 15 Million Units by Year-End

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo Switch 2 will be available for purchase starting June 5, following its reveal on April 2.
    2. Early projections estimate sales of 15 million units by the end of the year, making it potentially the fastest-selling console ever.
    3. Sales forecasts were revised down from 17 million to 15 million due to tariff concerns and pricing strategies.
    4. Key factors driving demand include a sub-$500 price, improved specifications, and strong third-party game support.
    5. Consumer sentiment is largely positive, with 61% of surveyed PlayStation and Xbox users showing interest in the Switch 2, although pre-orders have been postponed due to market evaluation.

    Nintendo Switch 2 was revealed on April 2 and will be available for purchase starting June 5. Early projections indicate that this handheld console may become the quickest-selling console in history, surpassing the original Switch, PlayStation 4, and the Wii. Interestingly, the sales forecasts have been adjusted downward in light of tariff concerns.

    Sales Expectations

    According to the research and consulting agency DFC Intelligence, the Nintendo Switch 2 is predicted to sell 15 million units by the end of this year, even though it will only be on the market for part of the year. This achievement would establish it as the fastest-selling console ever. Initially, the firm had projected 17 million units, but this number was revised down to 15 million due to worries about tariffs and pricing strategies.

    Reasons for Demand

    Several factors contribute to these impressive sales figures, including the sub-$500 price tag, improved specifications compared to the original Switch, and strong third-party support. This support includes various games set to launch with the Switch 2 or arrive shortly after, such as Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Hogwarts Legacy, Project 007, Borderlands 4, Street Fighter 6, and others.

    Consumer Sentiments

    Additionally, the firm examined how PlayStation and Xbox users feel about the Nintendo Switch 2 by gathering feedback from over 600 individuals. They discovered that 61% expressed a positive view, while only 30% showed disinterest. Among the favorable respondents, 20% indicated they would be early adopters, while 41% said they were cautiously optimistic about the Switch 2.

    However, soon after the US pre-order date of April 9 was announced, a Nintendo representative shared that pre-orders were postponed to “evaluate the possible impact of tariffs and changing market conditions.” No new date has been established yet. The Switch 2 is set at a price of $450, while a bundle including the Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World is priced at $500.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Confirmed with Nvidia DLSS and Ray Tracing Support

    Nintendo Switch 2 Confirmed with Nvidia DLSS and Ray Tracing Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will use potentiometer-based Joy-Con sticks instead of Hall Effect-based ones.
    2. The console features an Nvidia GPU capable of DLSS and raytracing, allowing for 4K output to TVs.
    3. Software developers have the flexibility to choose between native 4K resolution or upscaling.
    4. Speculation suggests the Switch 2 may use DLSS 2.0 or a custom version developed with Nvidia.
    5. There is uncertainty about the inclusion of frame generation, with more details expected from Nvidia in the future.

    Nintendo has shared a lot about the Switch 2 since it was launched. First off, the Joy-Cons will continue using potentiometer-based sticks instead of the more durable Hall Effect-based ones. Thanks to an interview with IGN, we’ve learned a little more about what’s inside this new console. The company has confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2’s Nvidia GPU can handle DLSS and raytracing, as stated:

    “We incorporate DLSS upscaling technology, and it’s essential for us in our game development. Regarding the hardware, it can output to a TV at a maximum resolution of 4K. It’s up to the software developers to decide whether they will use that as a native resolution or upscale it, which provides a lot of flexibility for them.”

    Speculation on DLSS Version

    There’s no specific mention of which version of DLSS it uses, but it’s reasonable to guess that it’s DLSS 2.0 (or a specially made version) since the speculation suggests that the Switch 2’s SoC is based on Nvidia’s Ampere architecture. Alternatively, it might be a custom DLSS version developed by Nintendo in collaboration with Nvidia, similar to what Sony and AMD did for PSSR on the PlayStation 5 Pro.

    Good News for Gamers

    In any case, this is encouraging news for those looking to buy a Nintendo Switch 2 because the somewhat underwhelming Nvidia chip will need all the support it can get to achieve the desired 4K at 60 FPS or 1080p at 120 FPS. The only missing detail right now is frame generation. It’s unclear if this feature is enabled since Nintendo has been intentionally vague about specifics, but they mentioned that Nvidia might provide more information about the Switch 2’s hardware in the future.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 USB-C Port Lacks Video Output for Display Glasses

    Nintendo Switch 2 USB-C Port Lacks Video Output for Display Glasses

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features an additional USB-C port on the top, allowing charging and accessory connections in tabletop mode.
    2. The top USB-C port does not support video output, limiting its use for third-party docks.
    3. Video output is only available through the bottom USB-C port of the Switch 2.
    4. There is uncertainty about the Switch 2’s compatibility with display glasses like the Xreal Air 2, as they are not official Nintendo products.
    5. Players may not need a dock with the Switch 2, as they can charge through the top port and connect accessories directly to the bottom port.

    Among the improvements found in the Nintendo Switch 2 compared to the earlier model is an additional USB-C port. Located on the top of the console, this port enables players to charge the Switch 2 while in tabletop mode or connect accessories like the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera or the Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera. However, it’s important to note that this USB-C port does not support video output.

    Details from Nintendo

    This information was shared by Koichi Kawamoto from Nintendo during a question and answer session. When asked whether the two USB-C ports on the Nintendo Switch 2 could deliver image output, he clarified that video output is only available through the USB-C port located on the bottom of the device. As a result, Switch 2 users won’t be able to utilize a third-party dock with the top USB-C port.

    Compatibility Concerns

    In addition to the lack of video output from the top USB-C port, Koichi Kawamoto mentioned that he can’t confirm the Switch 2’s ability to work with display glasses like the Xreal Air 2 Glasses, which are currently listed on Amazon for $299, since they are not official Nintendo items.

    The original Nintendo Switch is compatible with the display glasses, but it requires some extra hardware to operate in docked mode without the official dock. With the introduction of two USB-C ports on the Switch 2, players may not need a dock anymore, as they can connect a charger to the top port while plugging the glasses directly into the bottom USB-C port. The only potential issue could arise if Nintendo has limited docked mode to only allow charging through the bottom port.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Costs $80

    Nintendo Switch 2: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Costs $80

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Game Pricing: Nintendo Switch 2 games like Mario Kart World will cost $79.99 for physical copies and $69.99 for digital versions.

    2. Older Game Pricing: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will also be priced at $79.99, while Breath of the Wild is $10 less than that, maintaining a higher price than its original Switch 1 version.

    3. Upgrade Option: Players who own Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for $10, which includes improved graphics and smartphone app integration.

    4. Variable Pricing Strategy: Not all new games will have a $79.99 price tag; pricing will vary based on what Nintendo believes is appropriate for each title.

    5. Example of Lower Pricing: Donkey Kong Bonanza is priced lower at $59.99 for digital and $69.99 for physical, showing that Nintendo has flexibility in game pricing.

    Just a few days ago, Nintendo made an announcement about prices for certain Nintendo Switch 2 games. For instance, Mario Kart World will be available for $79.99 if you buy the physical game cartridge. The digital version, on the other hand, will cost $69.99. Interestingly, this new pricing strategy also affects older games. Nintendo confirmed that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom in its physical form for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $79.99 or €89.99 in Europe.

    Pricing Details

    In comparison, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is priced $10 less, making it still $10 more than the original price for the Switch 1. Other titles like Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Super Mario Party Jamboree will also see a price tag of $79.99 for the Nintendo Switch 2. For gamers who already possess The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom, there’s an option to get an upgrade pack for $10. This upgrade gives access to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which features improved graphics and better integration with the Nintendo Switch smartphone app.

    Upgrade Fees and Game Pricing

    It’s still a bit unclear if the same upgrade cost will apply to games that have new gameplay features, such as Kirby. Nevertheless, Nintendo points out that not every new game will carry a price of $79.99. Instead, the cost of each title will be individually determined based on what Nintendo thinks is suitable. This pricing method is already shown with Donkey Kong Bonanza, which has a price of $59.99 for the digital version and $69.99 for the physical one, making it $10 cheaper than Mario Kart World.

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