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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Siri Now Able to Perform Samsung SmartThings Routines
    Siri Now Able to Perform Samsung SmartThings Routines

    **Samsung’s Announcement: Connecting Galaxy and Apple Devices**

    Samsung has unveiled a major update designed to improve interoperability between Galaxy and Apple devices, tackling the issues encountered by households using different operating systems. This effort is part of a larger industry trend aimed at fostering a more unified Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, where devices from various manufacturers can operate in harmony.

    ### The Progress of IoT Compatibility

    The drive for interoperability has accelerated with the introduction of new protocols and standards, including Thread and Matter. These innovations, along with supportive regulations, have facilitated the creation of effective smart home systems for consumers. Samsung’s recent update is a pivotal move in this effort, aiming to streamline connectivity for users who possess both Galaxy and Apple devices.

    ### Notable Features of the Update

    Among the standout features is the integration of Siri Shortcuts with SmartThings Routines. This linkage enables users to initiate SmartThings automations via Siri voice commands, enhancing convenience for iOS users managing their smart home gadgets.

    #### Routines Available for Users

    Samsung has detailed several useful routines that can be configured for both iOS and Android users:

    – **Morning Routine**: Automatically adjusts lighting, activates the coffee maker, and opens window coverings when the first person rises.
    – **Leaving Home Routine**: Secures doors, switches off lights, and engages the security system when the last individual departs the residence.
    – **Bedtime Mode**: A simple command, “Goodnight,” can deactivate all devices or establish a soothing environment by dimming lights and closing window coverings, while also modifying thermostats for sleep.

    ### Compatibility with Apple Watch

    The update further extends its capabilities to the Apple Watch, permitting users to access groups of devices created in the SmartThings app directly from their wrist. This function allows Apple Watch users to oversee their full list of devices, issue commands, and carry out routines while on the move, enriching the overall user experience.

    ### Improved Support for Live Activities

    Moreover, Samsung has augmented its iOS Live Activities support, allowing users to view up to five of their recently utilized devices at a glance. This encompasses key devices like air purifiers, air conditioners, and robot vacuums, facilitating easier management of their smart home settings.

    ### Conclusion

    Samsung’s latest update signifies a major step forward in connecting Galaxy and Apple devices, encouraging a more unified smart home experience. With features crafted to enhance usability and convenience, users can now experience a more interconnected lifestyle, irrespective of the devices they opt to utilize. For additional details on Samsung SmartThings, please visit their official website.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on RayNeo Launches the Most Luminous XR Glasses Featuring a Major Enhancement
    RayNeo Launches the Most Luminous XR Glasses Featuring a Major Enhancement

    With double the luminosity compared to its predecessor, the Air 3s Pro represent the pinnacle of XR eyewear currently on the market.

    There’s no doubt that XR glasses are rapidly gaining traction, and it’s clear to see why. Devices like the RayNeo Air 3s make it incredibly convenient to carry a massive display anywhere, and the incorporation of Micro-OLED technology ensures excellent visuals while on the move. I evaluated the Air 3s when they launched earlier this year, and having tried all prior RayNeo versions, I found the Air 3s to be more comfortable and to offer superior image quality.

    With the Air 3s Pro, RayNeo isn’t introducing many modifications — which is a positive aspect. The eyewear maintains the same design and craftsmanship, ensuring they remain comfortable to wear, with equivalent adjustability options. Weighing in at 76g, they’re quite light, and you won’t experience any discomfort, even after several hours of use. The Air 3s Pro are currently available for $299 on Amazon, just $30 above the standard model.

    If you’re considering XR glasses and wish to see how they perform, I highly endorse opting for the Air 3s Pro over the regular version. The reason for this is clear: brightness. The standard Air 3s delivers a respectable 650 nits, and while RayNeo employs a similar imaging engine in the Air 3s Pro, they have managed to enhance brightness to an impressive 1200 nits, which makes a significant impact.

    In fact, the Air 3s Pro are the most luminous XR eyewear available at this time, and there’s a noticeable difference compared to other brands, including devices like the Rokid Max 2. RayNeo mentions it’s utilizing a newly developed HueView 2.0 Micro-OLED engine this time, enabling much improved brightness.

    Fortunately, all the other features remain unchanged; you still receive 3,840Hz PWM dimming, and the glasses are not in the least bit tiring. The default refresh rate is 60Hz, but you can switch to 120Hz, and there are six distinct color modes available, providing considerable customizability for adjusting the color balance to your preferences.

    To compare with the Air 3s, I utilized the Steam Deck while wearing the glasses for an hour, then switched to the Air 3s Pro. The difference using the Air 3s Pro is immediate, and it’s clear that these glasses offer considerably greater brightness. While I typically increase the brightness to 80% on the Air 3s, I found it sufficient to keep it at 50% with the Air 3s Pro.

    A more significant advantage is that the increased brightness minimizes light bleed, making the Air 3s Pro a far superior option for outdoor use. Although there isn’t a photochromatic outer lens, so some light bleed occurs in bright ambient conditions, it’s not nearly as problematic as with the Air 3s or older models.

    This alteration alone is compelling enough for me to choose the Air 3s Pro over any other glasses during gaming sessions. Additionally, connecting to devices is just as simple via USB-C, and I encountered no difficulties pairing the XR glasses with my Find X9 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro. Due to the distribution of weight, there’s notably no strain when wearing these glasses, and the 76g weight feels evenly balanced.

    Other specifications are identical to the standard model; you benefit from detailed onboard audio courtesy of a dedicated quartet of audio drivers. There’s also virtualized spatial audio this time, enhancing the perception of dimensional audio. The glasses project a 201-inch image from a distance of six meters, producing excellent contrast levels alongside vibrant colors.

    RayNeo has revamped the packaging, and instead of the typical hard shell case, you now receive a fabric one. While it still offers reasonable protection for the XR glasses, I would have preferred a hard shell case, as the one that accompanied the Air 3s has superior durability — especially if you plan on tossing these glasses into a bag. Besides the case, you receive a USB-C angled cable, which I utilized to connect the glasses to various smartphones and handheld devices.

    As seen in past models, the glasses are constructed from plastic, and there are no issues with the build quality. I’ve used these glasses for over three months now, and they remain in excellent condition.

    With the Air 3s Pro, RayNeo is providing nothing less than the finest XR glasses currently available. The glasses are easy to wear, boast impressive color vibrancy and unparalleled brightness levels, deliver good onboard sound, and offer hassle-free connectivity. If you’re looking to expand the screen of your handheld console or need a way to enjoy entertainment

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on B&H Marks HomePod Mini as ‘Discontinued,’ Suggesting Potential Update
    B&H Marks HomePod Mini as ‘Discontinued,’ Suggesting Potential Update

    ### HomePod Mini Revamp: Key Details to Consider

    If you’re thinking about buying a HomePod mini, it might be beneficial to hold off for a bit longer, as signs of an upcoming refresh are increasingly evident.

    #### Unavailable at B&H, Restricted Stock Elsewhere

    In recent weeks, speculation has surged regarding a potential refresh of the HomePod mini, although the original model is still out there. A notable change has taken place: B&H, a key retail partner for Apple’s audio and video products, has officially marked the HomePod mini as discontinued.

    Furthermore, various color options of the HomePod mini are presently sold out at major retailers like Target and Walmart. Even Apple Stores are facing restricted stock, with certain colors available only at flagship locations. The original HomePod mini debuted in 2020, with additional color releases in 2021, but no significant hardware revisions have occurred since its launch.

    #### Speculation About an Upgrade

    There have been ongoing rumors about possible upgrades to the HomePod mini. Significantly, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg indicated that the next version of the smart speaker is anticipated to incorporate a new chip that enhances Siri and Apple Intelligence functionalities. There are also mentions of advancements in wireless technology, sound quality, and possibly new color variations, including red.

    Gurman further noted that Apple is gearing up for a refresh of Apple Stores, potentially set for November 12, which could align with the holiday shopping period.

    #### Final Thoughts

    Considering the dwindling stock and B&H’s recent discontinuation announcement, it might be wise to refrain from purchasing a HomePod mini at this moment. The expected enhancements could offer considerable benefits that justify the wait.

    Do you think an update for the HomePod mini is forthcoming? Share your opinions in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Best Monitors Suitable for Your New Mac
    Best Monitors Suitable for Your New Mac

    # Top External Displays for Mac

    If you’ve recently bought a new Mac, such as the new M5 MacBook Pro, you may also be considering some of the top display choices available. Below are suggestions that span different product categories, pricing tiers, and more.

    **Last Updated November 10, 2025**: Revised pricing and availability information, along with added insights on the ASUS ProArt Display 6K and the LG UltraFine 6K.

    ## Apple Studio Display

    A list of the finest displays wouldn’t be complete without including Apple’s Studio Display. Although it comes at a higher price point, it showcases an exquisite Apple design with a 27-inch 5K display. It includes one Thunderbolt 3 port for Mac connections and three additional USB-C ports.

    – **Display**: 27-inch 5K Retina display (5120×2880 resolution) at 218 pixels per inch
    – **Brightness**: 600 nits
    – **Color Support**: Wide color (P3) with capability for 1 billion colors
    – **Webcam**: 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage feature
    – **True Tone Technology**: Modifies the display’s color temperature based on surrounding light
    – **Ports**: One Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port for host connection (delivering up to 96W host charging) and three USB-C ports (up to 10Gb/s) for connecting devices, storage, and networking

    The Studio Display is offered in various configurations at a range of prices. If you desire an iMac-like experience with your Mac, the Apple Studio Display stands out as the premier choice.

    ## LG UltraFine 6K (New)

    The LG UltraFine 6K has been eagerly awaited since LG showcased it at CES in January. This display offers an economical alternative to Apple’s Studio Display and Pro Display XDR.

    – **Display**: 31.5″ 16:9 IPS Black Panel
    – **Resolution**: UHD 6K 6144 x 3456 at 60 Hz
    – **Brightness**: 450 Nits, 600 Nits in HDR
    – **Contrast Ratio**: 2000:1
    – **Color Coverage**: 98% DCI-P3 & 99.5 Adobe RGB
    – **Ports**: Built-in USB-C Hub & KVM, 1x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI, 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) with USB PD 140 W, 3x USB-C

    ## Asus ProArt 5K Display (New)

    The Asus ProArt (PA27JCV) Display 5K offers the same 5K resolution (5120×2880) in a comparable 27-inch design to the Studio Display, but at a fraction of the cost.

    – **Display**: 27-inch 5K resolution (5120×2880 pixels) at 218 PPI with a matte finish to minimize reflections
    – **Brightness**: Standard brightness of 400 nits and peak brightness of 500 nits
    – **Ports**: USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and a regular DisplayPort 1.4

    ## Asus ProArt 6K Display

    For those seeking a larger and higher-resolution option, Asus provides the solution. The new Asus ProArt Display 6K (PA32QCV) features a 32-inch screen with a native resolution of 6016 x 3384.

    – **Display**: 31.5-inch 6K (6016 x 3384) IPS display
    – **PPI**: 218 PPI
    – **Viewing Angle**: 178° wide viewing angle
    – **Refresh Rate**: 60Hz
    – **Connectivity**: Dual Thunderbolt 4
    – **HDR**: HDR10 and VESA DisplayHDR™ 600
    – **Color Gamut**: 98% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB
    – **Ergonomics**: Tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments

    ## Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K

    Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 5K presents another attractive choice to accompany your new Mac, and it’s also significantly less expensive than Apple’s Studio Display.

    – **Display**: 27-inch 5K resolution (5120×2880 pixels) at 218 PPI with a matte finish
    – **Brightness**: 600 nits
    – **Webcam**: Removable 4K camera
    – **Ports**: One Thunderbolt 4 port, one Mini DisplayPort, and three USB-C ports

    ## BenQ 27″ 5K PD2730S Thunderbolt Monitor

    The BenQ PD2730S 27″ 5K

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How AI Improvements Are Advancing NASA’s James Webb Telescope
    How AI Improvements Are Advancing NASA’s James Webb Telescope

    James Webb Space Telescope in 2021, experts celebrated the mission as the foremost achievement of its kind in more than thirty years. Nevertheless, scientists soon identified a significant issue with the globe’s most exquisitely calibrated camera: its images were out of focus. To rectify this dilemma, a duo of Australian scientists created an artificial intelligence program named AMIGO (Aperture Masking Interferometry Generative Observations) to tackle resolution challenges in Webb’s most advanced telescope cameras.

    This development illustrates how the vast distances of satellites such as the James Webb Space Telescope can hinder maintenance and repairs. Positioned a million miles away from Earth, the telescope is not as easily serviceable as its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope. For context, when NASA launched Hubble in 1990, lens alignment problems prompted a specialized mission from the Space Shuttle Endeavour to install new optics. In contrast, with JWST, manual adjustments are not feasible. AMIGO serves as an innovative solution for researchers to modify how JWST interprets and processes data, instead of traveling across the solar system to adjust the lenses directly. It accomplishes this by restoring the camera’s aperture masking interferometer (AMI), a slender metal piece punctuated with holes that enables researchers to assess whether the camera is experiencing optical misalignments based on the light it filters.

    JWST is capable of capturing images of the universe’s earliest galaxies, fundamentally altering how scientists perceive the cosmos. In less than five years, the telescope has documented galaxies formed over 13.5 billion years ago, revealed what some theorize to be stars fueled by dark matter, uncovered supermassive black holes, and even transformed how scholars view the formative phases of the universe. With the modifications provided by AMIGO, the James Webb Space Telescope could potentially illuminate humanity’s most ancient inquiries.

    Repairing the world’s priciest telescope

    To comprehend how AMIGO addressed the globe’s most costly photographic problem, one must first grasp the operating principles of the James Webb Space Telescope. Essentially, Webb employs a sequence of mirrors to reflect infrared light into the telescope’s imaging instruments. The dimensions of these mirrors, the largest of which weighs over 1

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Essential iPhone Applications for Hikers”
    “Essential iPhone Applications for Hikers”

    utilize ChatGPT as your travel aide; however, it won’t prove very useful if you find yourself disoriented in the wilderness without an internet connection. This is when dedicated hiking apps become essential. They can assist in navigating through thrilling paths or the classic road less traveled, both accurately and securely. Explore the options below and take them with you on your upcoming hiking excursion.

    AllTrails: Hike, Bike & Run

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/essential-iphone-applications-for-hikers-1.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2016296/essential-iphone-app-hikers/" data-post-id="2016296" data

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Launches Improved Sleep Score Evaluation System
    iOS 26.2 Launches Improved Sleep Score Evaluation System

    ### Enhancements to Sleep Score in iOS 26.2 and watchOS 26.2

    Recently, Apple launched the initial betas of iOS 26.2 and watchOS 26.2, bringing noteworthy updates to the Sleep Score evaluation system. Sleep Score, a vital feature introduced in iOS and watchOS 26, has been refined in response to user feedback, resulting in a more impartial evaluation of sleep quality.

    #### Modifications to the Evaluation System

    Apple acknowledged that the former top grade of ‘Excellent’ carried a quality judgment connotation instead of an objective standard. Consequently, this designation has been substituted with ‘Very High.’ The overall evaluation system has also been modified, making it somewhat more difficult to attain higher scores. Below is a side-by-side comparison of the evaluation systems prior to and following the update:

    | Grade | iOS 26.2 | iOS 26 |
    |—————|———-|———|
    | Very High | 96-100 | 90-100 |
    | High | 81-95 | 70-89 |
    | OK | 61-80 | 50-69 |
    | Low | 41-60 | 30-49 |
    | Very Low | 0-40 | 0-29 |

    Despite these modifications, the Sleep Score still depends on the same three metrics: Duration, Bedtime, and Interruptions, with no changes to how these metrics are computed.

    #### Personal Insights on the Updated Sleep Score

    After a week of engaging with the revised Sleep Score, numerous users, including myself, have discovered that the new evaluation system offers a more precise representation of sleep quality. While it might be disheartening to observe a drop in scores, the updated system resonates more with personal assessments of sleep quality.

    For example, I usually perform well in Duration and Bedtime categories. However, my Interruptions score can vary widely, particularly with a toddler at home. In the previous version, I often achieved ‘High’ grades even when my sleep was disrupted. For instance, one night I got a 0/20 on Interruptions yet still ended up with a ‘High’ overall score. With the updated grading in iOS 26.2, that same night would now have produced an ‘OK’ score, which I consider to be more accurate.

    Though the updates in iOS 26.2 are not revolutionary, they are likely to resonate more with users, offering a more genuine evaluation of sleep quality. As the official release nears next month, many are enthusiastic about observing how these updates will affect their sleep tracking journey.

    #### Conclusion

    The enhancements to the Sleep Score in iOS 26.2 and watchOS 26.2 demonstrate a thoughtful approach to user feedback, aiming to improve the precision and significance of sleep evaluations. As users acclimate to the new grading system, it will be intriguing to see how these adjustments shape their perception of sleep quality and overall well-being.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday
    Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday

    November has officially arrived, and we all know what that signifies! A plethora of deals! Best Buy barely waited for the calendar to change before launching a range of discounts on everything from smartphones to tablets and of course, Chromebooks.

    The retailer is presently running an assortment of “Early Black Friday Deals,” along with a selection of “Doorbusters” for even greater savings. This is truly advantageous as it means you don’t have to wait a few more weeks if you’ve been considering a new Chromebook, as there’s a solid chance it’s discounted right now.

    This time, several early Black Friday Chromebook deals caught my attention, each aiming at a different demographic.

    – **Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus (8GB/256GB)**: $749.99 $599.99 at Best Buy. If you are searching for a conventional Chromebook with a sleek design and a large screen, your search can end here. The Galaxy Chromebook Plus stands out as one of the finest Chromebooks you can buy, featuring a stunning 15.6-inch AMOLED display, and it’s so lightweight that you might hardly notice it in your bag. Additionally, this was the first Chromebook to come with the new “Quick Insert” key when it launched last year.

    – **Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11 (4GB/128GB)**: $399 $249 at Best Buy. What if you’re looking for something versatile? The Chromebook Duet 11 is virtually flawless, owing to its 11-inch touchscreen display, which is also compatible with the best USI pens. Moreover, since the Duet 11 doubles as a tablet, we’re grateful that Lenovo includes the Keyboard Cover in the package, allowing you to utilize it as either a tablet or a laptop.

    – **Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (8GB/128GB)**: $479 $299 at Best Buy. Sometimes, it’s just refreshing to have a Chromebook that’s dependable, supports the latest features, and has a classic appearance. Enter Acer’s Chromebook Plus 516, which showcases the same timeless design we’ve seen repeatedly. It boasts the largest screen in this group with its 16-inch display, making it excellent for working with side-by-side app windows or relaxing while watching a movie.

    – **ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus (8GB/128GB)**: $429 $249 at Best Buy. Completing the lineup is yet another “under-the-radar” choice, as the ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus sees a $180 reduction, dropping the price to just $249. This is probably going to be a hot seller at this price, as it provides a capable Chromebook that simply fulfills its role, while remaining lightweight and compact. Honestly, I might just pick one up as an early Christmas gift because who can say it’ll be this affordable on Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

    It’s well-known that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are among the best times of the year to get new technology, and this period often sees Chromebooks reaching their most competitive prices. However, if you happen to miss these deals, don’t worry. I believe Best Buy and other retailers will be running numerous promotions throughout the month and into December.

    Another nice aspect of these retailers competing for our holiday spending is that if a specific sale ends at one store, you’re likely to find it at another. Of course, this isn’t always guaranteed, but it’s something worth considering as you start to check items off your gift shopping list.

    **Black Friday 2025 – quick links**

    – **Best Buy:** up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
    – **Amazon:** early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
    – **Walmart:** early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
    – **Samsung:** new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
    – **Verizon:** free phones with new line, trade-in
    – **T-Mobile:** free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
    – **Mint Mobile:** 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
    – **AT&T:** get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line

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    What makes this appealing?

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/this-unique-usb-stick-will-never-leave-your-computers-usb-port/why-would-you-want-something-like-this-1762242503.webp

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Vince Gilligan Highlights the Role of Humanity in the Development of Pluribus
    Vince Gilligan Highlights the Role of Humanity in the Development of Pluribus

    ### The Role of AI in Entertainment: Vince Gilligan’s Perspective

    The entertainment sector is currently wrestling with the consequences of artificial intelligence (AI) as it becomes more embedded in different facets of production. Vince Gilligan, the renowned showrunner behind legendary series like *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul*, has articulated a clear position regarding the use of AI in his new project, the Apple TV series *Pluribus*. He underscores that AI plays no part in the creative workflow of his show, underscored by a disclaimer in the credits stating: “This show was made by humans.”

    #### Concerns Regarding AI in Creative Sectors

    Gilligan’s observations mirror a wider concern within the industry about the potential effects of AI on creativity and job security. The emergence of generative AI has ignited discussions about job loss and the ethical ramifications of utilizing AI-generated material. Numerous creators fear that dependence on AI may compromise the artistry and human touch that are crucial to storytelling.

    In a conversation with *Deadline*, Gilligan voiced his doubts about AI’s capability to enhance the creative domain. He remarked, “As this technology advances, I don’t see how it will make the world a better place.” His viewpoint implies that while technology can furnish new tools, it should not supersede the human component that is essential to creating engaging narratives.

    #### A Nuanced Perspective on AI’s Possibilities

    Even with his apprehensions, Gilligan concedes that there could be a role for AI in the creative process, provided it isn’t treated as a replacement for human ingenuity. He holds that the genuine worth of storytelling stems from the distinct insights and experiences that only people can offer. This balanced perspective shows that while he is receptive to the opportunities that AI might present, he remains wary about its application in creative projects.

    Gilligan’s approach to *Pluribus* acts as a definitive statement against the intrusion of AI in storytelling. By guaranteeing that his show is wholly produced by humans, he emphasizes the significance of human creativity in a time when technology is swiftly advancing.

    #### Conclusion

    As the entertainment industry keeps navigating the intricacies of AI, Vince Gilligan’s position serves as a reminder of the necessity to uphold human creativity in storytelling. While AI may introduce new potentials, the core of exceptional storytelling is still grounded in human experience and creativity. As audiences connect with offerings like *Pluribus*, they can value the commitment and artistry that originate from human creators, untainted by AI influence.

    For individuals eager to delve into *Pluribus*, it is accessible for streaming on Apple TV, which also showcases a range of other distinguished shows and films.

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