Tag: T-Mobile

  • Ukraine Carrier First in Europe to Launch Starlink Cell Service

    Ukraine Carrier First in Europe to Launch Starlink Cell Service

    Key Takeaways

    1. Kyivstar is the first major carrier outside the US to implement Starlink’s cellular service for standard handsets, aiming for a launch by the end of the year.

    2. The initial Starlink service will focus on text messaging and chat applications, with plans for satellite internet and voice services by early 2026.

    3. Current testing includes compatibility tests for SIM cards and messaging trials in Ukraine, with an anticipated launch of SMS and OTT messaging by Q4 2025.

    4. Pricing for the Starlink service in Ukraine is yet to be determined, although T-Mobile’s service in the US starts at $10/month.

    5. Starlink’s mobile service may initially be slower and less functional than traditional services, but future V3 satellites launching in 2026 are expected to enhance speed and capacity.

    The top mobile cellular technology provider in Ukraine, Kiyvstar, is set to be the first significant carrier outside the US to implement Starlink’s cellular service for standard handsets.

    They have reached an agreement with SpaceX to introduce a mobile Starlink service by year’s end. Similar to T-Mobile in the US, this service will initially focus on text messaging and chat applications like Signal or WhatsApp, with plans to roll out satellite internet and voice services for phones in Ukraine by early 2026.

    Testing Phase Underway

    Initial compatibility tests for the carrier’s SIM cards with Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite system have already occurred in the US, and messaging trials are currently taking place in Ukraine.

    According to Kyivstar’s parent company, “The anticipated launch of D2C services featuring SMS and over-the-top (OTT) messaging is set for Q4 2025 and aims to significantly improve Kyivstar’s ability to deliver crucial connectivity for Ukraine, particularly in areas affected by infrastructure damage and in rural locales, as well as during emergencies.”

    Pricing Details

    In the US, the T-Satellite with Starlink service is priced at $10/month starting July 23, available on both older devices and newer ones like the iPhone 16 Pro. However, it remains unclear how much this service will cost for users in Ukraine.

    Kiyvstar is now the first European carrier to become a customer of Starlink’s direct cell phone service, aiming “to ensure constant communication for our clients, no matter the situation.” The service provides an alternative for connectivity in areas impacted by natural or human-made disasters, as it operates without the need for traditional cell tower infrastructure by transmitting signals directly from space.

    Functionality and Speed

    However, it’s important to note that Starlink’s mobile service is expected to be slower and less functional compared to terrestrial services, at least initially. In the US, T-Mobile plans to start with text messaging in July, and will then expand to data through certified apps like X or WhatsApp by October.

    SpaceX has plans to begin launching its V3 satellites, which will provide ten times the capacity of the current satellites, in 2026. This means the direct-to-cell network should become faster and offer more bandwidth in the future, too.

    Source:
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  • T-Mobile Offers Starlink Satellite Internet for iPhone 13 and More

    T-Mobile Offers Starlink Satellite Internet for iPhone 13 and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile will launch its satellite communication service, T-Satellite, in partnership with Starlink on July 23, expanding access to older mobile phones.
    2. The FCC approved a waiver allowing almost all mobile phones, regardless of age, to register for the T-Satellite service, enhancing emergency communication capabilities.
    3. The waiver was justified as it supports the public interest by allowing consumers and first responders to access vital services in emergencies or remote areas.
    4. Older phone models face challenges in obtaining necessary certifications for satellite messaging, as manufacturers are reluctant to invest time and resources for devices over four years old.
    5. The FCC has encouraged manufacturers to certify older devices for the service while granting waivers to T-Mobile and SpaceX to facilitate satellite connectivity without additional licensing requirements.

    T-Mobile is set to introduce its satellite communication service, T-Satellite, in partnership with Starlink on July 23. They’ve received approval for a waiver that allows users with older phones to register for the service.

    Expanded Access for Users

    Initially, T-Mobile Starlink’s beta service was limited to newer devices that were authorized within the last four years. Eligible models included iPhone 14 through iPhone 16, Samsung Galaxy S21, and Google Pixel 9 and later versions. Interestingly, even basic models like the Galaxy A14 were permitted, but older devices like the iPhone 13 were excluded.

    Recently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given T-Mobile the go-ahead for its exemption request. This means that T-Satellite will now be available for almost all mobile phones, regardless of their age.

    Justification for the Waiver

    The FCC determined that there was a valid reason to approve the waiver request, agreeing with T-Mobile and SpaceX that strict adherence to the rules could hinder the Commission’s objective. This objective is to ensure that consumers and first responders can access vital services, like emergency alerts and limited texting, during emergencies or in remote locations without traditional service. T-Mobile and SpaceX pointed out that enforcing the rules would prevent subscribers and first responders from using SCS due to the failure of certain device manufacturers to seek waivers for their equipment. Granting access serves the public interest by enabling T-Mobile customers to communicate where they otherwise could not, despite the Commission’s efforts to authorize new services.

    The rationale behind T-Mobile’s exemption request stemmed from the FCC’s rules requiring each phone to be certified for its Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) service, which includes Starlink satellite messaging and data.

    Challenges for Older Devices

    It’s worth noting that phone manufacturers have little motivation to tackle the extensive paperwork and testing for devices older than four years, just for T-Mobile to offer satellite messaging. This situation also applies to Verizon and AT&T phones, which can use T-Satellite for the same $10 per month fee.

    Initially, the service will provide text and voice messaging, but starting October 1, it will also enable satellite Internet access for specific optimized Android and iOS applications, like chat, social media, or weather services.

    The FCC acknowledges this issue and has granted the waiver for T-Mobile’s Starlink service, stating that neither the carrier nor users should be blamed for the necessary software updates from manufacturers.

    Manufacturer Responsibilities

    The FCC recognizes that T-Mobile and SpaceX are not primarily responsible for updating device certifications for the phones on their networks. They urge T-Mobile and SpaceX to remind their suppliers about the importance of getting handsets authorized after June 29, 2024, into compliance. They expect manufacturers to take the necessary actions, yet considering the limited number of consumer devices involved and users’ inability to update certifications independently, the benefits to the public are deemed to outweigh potential drawbacks in this case. Therefore, the waiver for sections 2.805(a), 25.125(c), and 25.125(d)(3) of the rules is granted. Additionally, the FCC has waived section 25.115(q)(1) to allow T-Mobile users to connect with SpaceX satellites without needing extra earth station licenses, aligning with the rule’s purpose.

    The FCC continues to “encourage” manufacturers of older Galaxy and iPhone models to certify them for the SCS option, although the associated paperwork can now be submitted voluntarily.

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  • T-Mobile Announces Starlink Data Service Launch for X and WhatsApp

    T-Mobile Announces Starlink Data Service Launch for X and WhatsApp

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile will launch its Starlink satellite voice and text messaging service on July 23, with Starlink Internet available in October.
    2. The T-Satellite feature requires no special gear and is compatible with T-Mobile and select devices from other carriers, including Verizon and AT&T.
    3. Initially, users can send texts, image messages, and short audio clips from areas lacking cellular service.
    4. Starting October 1, T-Mobile Starlink subscribers will have access to optimized apps for iOS and Android, including popular messaging and social media platforms.
    5. The service will cost $10 per month, with a free trial available in beta; T-Mobile will offer it for free to customers on the Experience Beyond unlimited 5G data plan.

    T-Mobile is set to launch its Starlink satellite voice and text messaging service on July 23, with Starlink Internet rolling out in October.

    T-Satellite Details

    This new T-Satellite feature doesn’t need any special gear and is available for T-Mobile phone models from 2021 onwards, like the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It’s also compatible with devices from other carriers, including Verizon and AT&T.

    Initially, the T-Satellite with Starlink will allow users to send texts and image messages. Additionally, customers can send short audio clips from over 500,000 square miles that currently lack Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T cellular service.

    Availability of Apps

    Beginning October 1, subscribers to T-Mobile Starlink will have access to optimized apps for iOS and Android. These apps will function even in areas without cell phone towers and will include popular messaging and social media platforms like WhatsApp and X.

    To provide the best user experience for satellite connectivity, T-Mobile is collaborating with a select group of widely-used app providers in areas most important for those traveling to remote locations. We expect to see satellite-enabled applications from AccuWeather, AllTrails, Apple, Google, WhatsApp, and X, among others, in the near future.

    Pricing and Free Trials

    On July 23, the T-Mobile Starlink data and messaging service for remote areas will be priced at $10 per month, even for users on Verizon and AT&T. The Starlink satellite connectivity is currently in a beta trial, allowing anyone to test it without any cost, with over 1.8 million users already participating.

    T-Mobile will continue to offer Starlink for free to customers on the Experience Beyond unlimited 5G data plan, while they also work on making it available for phones older than four years.

    Source:
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  • T-Mobile Cuts Starlink Satellite Service Price 50% for Verizon, AT&T

    T-Mobile Cuts Starlink Satellite Service Price 50% for Verizon, AT&T

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile will reduce the monthly fee for Starlink connectivity to $10, significantly lower than AT&T and Verizon’s rates.
    2. The service currently offers limited messaging functionality, primarily for emergency texts, but is expected to expand to voice and data services in the future.
    3. T-Mobile’s Starlink service will be available to customers of AT&T and Verizon, not just T-Mobile users.
    4. Virtual eSIM cards will allow users to access Starlink connectivity while using multiple carriers simultaneously.
    5. T-Mobile will offer free Starlink connectivity to premium plan subscribers at the official launch in July.

    At the recent earnings call for T-Mobile, the company revealed important details about the pricing for its Starlink satellite service, which is set to exit its beta phase in July.

    Pricing Details for Starlink

    T-Mobile plans to lower the monthly fee for Starlink connectivity to $10. This is a significant reduction compared to the fees for AT&T and Verizon customers, who would pay double that amount, and $15 for T-Mobile users. Although this service currently provides limited functionality—mainly messaging when users are outside T-Mobile’s coverage—it has been highlighted by the carrier as potentially “lifesaving” for emergency texts. This was part of their argument for an FCC exemption to speed up the service’s rollout to older mobile devices.

    Future Capabilities

    Additionally, the growth of SpaceX’s direct-to-cell satellite network will enable T-Mobile’s Starlink users to access voice and data services, including the ability to stream podcasts and videos. T-Mobile’s CEO, Mike Sievert, confirmed that the $10 monthly Starlink service will also be available to customers of AT&T and Verizon, just like it is currently offered during its beta phase.

    How Connectivity Works

    To enable Starlink connectivity for users of Verizon or AT&T, T-Mobile uses virtual eSIM cards available in devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, allowing customers to utilize two carriers simultaneously. While in beta, T-Mobile has also made the service available for free to those who switch from AT&T or Verizon to their network, although it is uncertain how many individuals have taken up this offer.

    For T-Mobile subscribers who are on premium plans such as Experience Beyond and Go5G Next, the Starlink connectivity will also be offered at no cost when the service officially launches in July.

    Source:
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  • T-Mobile Offers Starlink Coverage for Older Phones for Emergency Messaging

    T-Mobile Offers Starlink Coverage for Older Phones for Emergency Messaging

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile seeks FCC waiver for easier device approval for its Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) service.
    2. The SCS service currently supports a range of devices, including newer iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Pixel models.
    3. Users with older phones, like the iPhone 13 series, may face challenges due to extensive FCC paperwork for access during the beta phase.
    4. T-Mobile argues that device-specific approvals hinder access to critical services and emergency alerts in remote areas.
    5. The partnership with Starlink currently offers messaging, with plans to expand data services as satellite coverage grows.

    T-Mobile has asked the FCC to allow a waiver for its requirement to approve each device for the Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) service.

    Current Offerings

    The SCS list features the Starlink satellite messaging service, which T-Mobile is providing for free in beta to all phone users, even those on Verizon or AT&T, ahead of its full launch in July. The current compatibility includes devices from the iPhone 14 to iPhone 16, as well as the Samsung Galaxy 21 and Pixel 9 series and newer. It even extends to older models like the Galaxy A14 that have been approved in the last few years.

    Legacy Devices and Challenges

    However, users with older phones such as the iPhone 13 series may face a daunting amount of FCC authorization paperwork if they wish to access Starlink satellite messaging during the beta phase. Those who still use these devices might find themselves in a tough spot when trying to enjoy the free service.

    T-Mobile argues to the FCC that forcing companies or their SCS partners to restrict access based on individual device approvals—when it’s not a technical barrier—goes against public interest. They believe this approach would help people receive vital services and emergency alerts in hard-to-reach areas, especially in emergencies.

    Life-Saving Services

    The carrier emphasizes that the burdensome FCC authorization process for each device hinders access to “life-saving” services on older phones and is urging the regulator to fix this issue. Right now, T-Mobile’s partnership with Starlink only provides a messaging service, but as SpaceX’s satellite network expands, the service is expected to also deliver data to remote locations without cell tower coverage.

    Source:
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  • Free Starlink Service for T-Mobile Users Seeking SpaceX Coverage

    Free Starlink Service for T-Mobile Users Seeking SpaceX Coverage

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile is offering a year of free Starlink satellite coverage to new customers who join the beta service.
    2. The Starlink service is currently available for free to all users but will cost $20 per month for Verizon and AT&T customers starting in July.
    3. Existing T-Mobile customers will need to pay $15 per month for the service after the beta period, except for those on the Go5G Next plan, who will continue to receive it for free.
    4. The current Starlink service only supports low-data activities like messaging and is compatible with select devices, primarily newer Apple models.
    5. Future plans include expanding device compatibility and adding features like video streaming, particularly for remote areas lacking cell coverage.

    T-Mobile is providing a complimentary Starlink satellite coverage offer in emails to subscribers who joined the beta service announced back in January.

    Launch of Starlink Coverage

    After SpaceX deployed its network of 330 Starlink satellites capable of direct-to-cell communication with standard cell phones on the ground, T-Mobile initiated its dead zone coverage service in beta mode.

    The Starlink satellite coverage is currently available for free to anyone, including Verizon and AT&T customers. However, starting in July, the service will cost $20 per month for them. To encourage users to make the switch, T-Mobile is promoting a year of free Starlink satellite service for new customers through an email that states:

    An exclusive offer for beta registrants. Switch to T‑Mobile today, and you’ll receive a free year of satellite coverage for every line you register in the beta. Up to 12 lines.

    Restrictions for Current Subscribers

    Sadly, the complimentary Starlink offer is not accessible to existing T-Mobile customers, who will need to start paying $15 per month for the service in July. Only those on T-Mobile’s Go5G Next plan will continue to enjoy free Starlink satellite coverage once it leaves beta.

    It’s unclear how many customers will switch from Verizon or AT&T solely for the free Starlink connectivity offer. The current direct-to-cell constellation supports low-data activities like messaging, image sharing, and podcast streaming. Elon Musk has mentioned that the second generation will also include video streaming capabilities, particularly in remote areas lacking cell towers and coverage.

    Current Limitations and Future Plans

    At this time, T-Mobile’s Starlink beta supports only messaging via satellite coverage and is compatible with “optimized” devices, including newer Apple models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

    Once the Starlink service transitions out of beta later this summer, the variety of supported devices is expected to grow. Customers switching from other carriers will also have the chance to enjoy a year of free satellite coverage for testing purposes.

    Source:
    Link

    Free Starlink Service for T-Mobile Users Seeking SpaceX Coverage
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  • RCS Support for Major MVNOs in iOS 18.4 Update

    RCS Support for Major MVNOs in iOS 18.4 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 18 introduces Rich Communication Services (RCS) support for iPhones, expanding messaging features.
    2. The second developer beta of iOS 18.4 includes RCS support for T-Mobile MVNOs like Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Tello, and U.S. Mobile.
    3. RCS support is also being rolled out in Europe, with carriers like Sosh and Orange gaining access in the iOS 18.4 beta.
    4. RCS enhances text messaging by providing features like read receipts and high-quality media sharing, similar to iMessage.
    5. RCS addresses messaging challenges between iPhone and Android users, easing the “green bubbles vs. blue bubbles” issue.

    With the launch of iOS 18, iPhones started to support Rich Communication Services, commonly known as RCS. Nonetheless, not every carrier has adapted to this feature. It seems that the upcoming iOS 18.4 will expand RCS support to iPhones on several well-known MVNOs.

    Developer Beta Updates

    The second developer beta of iOS 18.4 is now being released, and reports indicate that T-Mobile MVNOs are getting RCS support. Some of these MVNOs are well-known options like Google Fi, Mint Mobile, Tello, and U.S. Mobile. It’s important to note that this functionality seems to only be accessible in the developer beta, and not in the public beta.

    Expanding to Europe

    In France, carriers including Sosh and Orange have also gained RCS support in this iOS 18.4 beta, hinting at a wider rollout of RCS for certain European mobile providers as well.

    RCS enhances standard text messaging, bringing it closer to Apple’s iMessage and other messaging platforms. Instead of relying on the old SMS standard, RCS offers improved features like read receipts, high-quality video and image sharing, audio messages, and more. With the introduction of RCS in iOS 18, there has been a sort of truce in the ongoing “green bubbles vs. blue bubbles” conflict between Android and iPhone users.

    Addressing User Needs

    Although RCS may not be as feature-packed as iMessage, it does offer functionalities that solve many previous challenges faced by iPhone users when messaging friends on Android devices.

    Source:
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  • US Smartphones May Soon Connect to Starlink Satellites for Free

    US Smartphones May Soon Connect to Starlink Satellites for Free

    Key Takeaways

    1. SpaceX and T-Mobile announced free internet access via Starlink satellites as part of a beta test, starting in July with fees afterward.
    2. The service is open to all users, not just T-Mobile customers, through a sign-up form.
    3. Starlink’s Direct to Cell technology allows phones to connect for broadband service where cellular coverage is lacking.
    4. Initially, the service will support text messaging, with plans to expand to picture messaging, data, and voice calls after the beta period.
    5. Pricing will vary: free for Go5G Next plan users, $15 per month for others, and $20 per month for customers of other providers post-beta.

    SpaceX and T-Mobile revealed at the Super Bowl that users can get internet through the Starlink satellites at no charge. They confirmed during the event that this access will be part of a beta test, which will start charging from July. After that, users will need an eSim smartphone to use the service, which will be priced accordingly.

    Access for All Users

    This complimentary access isn’t only for T-Mobile customers; anyone who signs up via the T-Mobile form can join the trial.

    Starlink has deployed 451 satellites known as Direct to Cell, which enable phones to link up and get broadband when cellular service is out of reach. This means users in the US can maintain a steady connection.

    How It Works

    The company explains, “Direct to Cell technology—functions like cellphone towers in space—enabling connections almost anywhere you can see the sky,” according to the T-Mobile website. However, the beta services are quite limited to text messaging through users’ native apps. In the future, after the beta period, services will expand to include picture messaging, data, and voice calls.

    Currently, roughly 500,000 square miles in the US lack coverage from any wireless provider, making this service a significant advantage, as noted by T-Mobile.

    Pricing Details

    Starting in July, the service will be free for those on the Go5G Next plan and other plans will cost $15 per month. Early testers who aren’t on the free plan will benefit from a $5 monthly discount. Additionally, customers of Verizon, AT&T, and others can access T-Mobile Starlink without switching providers for $20 per month once the beta concludes in July.

    Source:
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  • iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity

    iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity

    Back in 2022, Apple introduced the iPhone 14 series, which came equipped with a crucial satellite connectivity feature aimed at saving lives. This capability has continued with the release of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models. Now, it appears that Apple is enhancing this technology through a confidential collaboration with SpaceX and T-Mobile.

    Partnership for Enhanced Connectivity

    According to a recent report from Bloomberg, the company from Cupertino is quietly collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones. This initiative likely utilizes the partnership that T-Mobile and SpaceX announced in 2022. The report also indicates that T-Mobile has started testing this feature with a limited group of iPhone users.

    Current Status of the Feature

    At this moment, the feature is still in beta testing, so it may not provide a seamless experience just yet. However, users with iPhones running iOS 18.3, which was launched earlier this week, can access the feature. T-Mobile noted in their official communication regarding the Starlink beta that, “You can now stay connected by texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”

    Future Plans and Expectations

    For those who might not know, T-Mobile previously announced that Samsung Galaxy phones would also gain support for Starlink communication. Currently, the collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink for Apple devices focuses solely on sending messages via satellite. Nonetheless, there are intentions to introduce voice calls and data services in the future. Earlier, there had been rumors of Apple working with GlobalStar for its satellite features, but now it seems the partnership with T-Mobile is expanding, with expectations that all users will gain access to this feature by the end of the year.

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  • Get Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 for $0 + Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Offer

    Get Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 for $0 + Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Offer

    Samsung presents an enticing trade-in offer for the latest Galaxy Z Flip 5 in the United States. Through a collaboration with T-Mobile, consumers can acquire the phone at a minimal cost and even receive complimentary Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.

    Trade-In Deal Details

    Customers engaging in this deal may notice an offer of $50 in-store credit upon adding the phone to their cart.

    How to Redeem the Offer

    To benefit from this promotion:

    1. Visit Samsung’s official website and opt for the locked Galaxy Z Flip 5 (256GB) designed for T-Mobile.
    2. During the checkout process, select the T-Mobile Trade-In alternative. The credit amount varies based on the phone being traded in. For instance, exchanging a Samsung Galaxy S22 5G results in an immediate credit of $120 and a bill credit of $880 distributed over 24 months.
    3. Upon adding the phone to the cart, a $50 in-store credit offer should also be visible. This credit can be utilized for purchasing new accessories such as the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro (priced at $49.99).
    Get

    Phone Specifications

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 unfolds to showcase a sizable 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED capacitive touchscreen display. Additionally, a smaller 3.4-inch Super AMOLED display adorns the cover when the device is closed. Both screens are safeguarded by Gorilla Glass Victus+. The device operates on a non-removable 3700 mAh battery supporting 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging for compatible gadgets. Constructed with a plastic front, a glass back fortified by Gorilla Glass Victus+, and an aluminum frame, the phone boasts an IPX8 water resistance rating, enabling it to endure submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for half an hour.

    Device Features

    Available in assorted colors like Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is offered in 256GB or 512GB storage capacities but lacks a microSD card slot for expansion. It features 8GB of RAM, a dual rear camera system (12MP wide + 12MP ultrawide), and a single 10MP front-facing camera. Running on the Android 13 OS with Samsung’s One UI 5.1.1 overlay, the device measures 165.1 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm when unfolded and weighs 187 grams.

    Is the Deal Worth It?

    The decision on whether to capitalize on this trade-in offer hinges on your current phone’s value and carrier preference. If you possess a phone eligible for substantial trade-in value and are contemplating a switch to T-Mobile, this deal could be a splendid means to save on a new device. Act swiftly to seize this opportunity before it expires!

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