Author: sparta

    • 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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    • 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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    • 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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    • 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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    • 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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    • Comments Off on 5 Unexpected Electronics You Can Buy at Ikea
    5 Unexpected Electronics You Can Buy at Ikea

    USB gadgets from Ikea, along with lesser-known smart devices and sensors that can be beneficial for both home and personal use. Thus, if you find yourself at Ikea and are looking to purchase some electronics, here are five items you likely weren’t aware you could acquire there.

    Symfonisk Floor Lamp with Wi-Fi Sonos Speaker

    No home entertainment system is truly complete without speakers, but they often present two challenges. First, they can occupy significant space, particularly the larger, more powerful models. And second, they frequently clash with your living room’s decor, easily standing out in an undesirable way. If you’re seeking something elegant that doesn’t compromise on performance, consider the Symfonisk Floor Lamp with Wi-Fi Sonos Speaker from Ikea.

    Developed in collaboration between Ikea and Sonos, the Symfonisk is a combination of a floor lamp and a Wi-Fi speaker. The floor lamp is designed with a bamboo shade to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the speaker delivers 180-degree sound and is rated at 15W. Like other Wi-Fi speakers, the Symfonisk Floor Lamp Speaker can stream your selected content from major platforms on your phone and continues to play even when you receive calls or notifications. The speaker is compatible with AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect as well.

    If you have

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Microsoft Terminates Support for Established Office Application Following 35 Years
    Microsoft Terminates Support for Established Office Application Following 35 Years

    integrating AI into current software like the Paint app. This transformation has resulted in significant changes that have left Microsoft users cautious about the new path, ranging from the unfortunate closure of Skype to AI-fueled increases in Microsoft 365 pricing. Predominantly, these modifications mirror a scenario where technology firms are reallocating resources toward budding technological markets. One alteration that disappointed longtime users was Microsoft’s announcement of the upcoming end of one of its oldest programs, Microsoft Publisher. Per Microsoft’s lifecycle webpage, the company will officially stop supporting the application on October 1, 2026. In the meantime, users are urged to convert all Publisher files to alternate formats, like PDFs or Word documents. Microsoft’s support site offers useful guidelines on how to transition Publisher documents into new formats, including a PowerShell script to streamline the process.

    Launched in 1991 and initially bundled with Office 97 Small Business Edition, Microsoft Publisher was developed in response to programs such as QuarkXPress, PageMaker, and InDesign. It allowed small businesses, students, and the publishing sector to create promotional materials with easily templated options, ranging from brochures and business cards to newsletters, magazines, and newspapers. Over the years, the product has seen numerous updates, introducing web publishing tools, PDF exports, and cloud collaboration features in a bid to adapt to the evolving publishing environment. Nevertheless, recent changes have pushed Publisher out of a saturated market. Fortunately, for supporters of the application, a variety of alternatives can readily fill the gap.

    Alternative software to Microsoft Publisher

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.b

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    • Comments Off on Apple Postpones Launch of iPhone Air 2 Indefinitely, Based on Reports
    Apple Postpones Launch of iPhone Air 2 Indefinitely, Based on Reports

    Apple is said to be postponing the introduction of the iPhone Air 2. A report from The Information states that Apple has notified engineers and suppliers that the upcoming iPhone Air has been removed from the schedule without a new launch date. This choice is linked to sales of the current iPhone Air being lower than anticipated, resulting in considerable cuts in production.

    The second iteration of the iPhone Air was originally slated for release in the fall alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold. It was expected to be lighter than the previous version and to boast a larger battery capacity. Furthermore, Apple was developing a vapor chamber cooling system, which was first introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro, for the iPhone Air 2. There were also speculations that the device may feature dual cameras.

    Despite the delay, Apple has not entirely scrapped the iPhone Air 2. Certain engineers and manufacturers remain involved in its development, but there is no concrete release date at this time. The decision to remove the iPhone Air 2 from the timeline is considered unusual and without precedent.

    The drop in sales of the existing iPhone Air has been notable, with reports suggesting that Foxconn has decommissioned most of its production lines for the device and anticipates completely ceasing production soon. Luxshare, another manufacturing partner, has also halted the assembly of the iPhone Air.

    Consequently, Apple is now projected to roll out three new iPhones in the fall: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold. The entry-level iPhone 18 and the budget-oriented iPhone 18e are expected to arrive in spring 2027.

    There is a chance that the iPhone Air 2 is undergoing a major redesign, with speculation it might still debut in spring 2027 alongside the standard iPhone 18 and the 18e.

    In general, the news regarding the delay of the iPhone Air 2 has disappointed its fans, particularly those who value its sleek and lightweight design. The iPhone Air has received accolades for blending a large display with a slim profile, making it a distinctive addition to Apple’s product range.

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    • Comments Off on Apple TV Removes Advertisements While ‘Pause Ads’ Rise on Other Platforms
    Apple TV Removes Advertisements While ‘Pause Ads’ Rise on Other Platforms

    **The Growth of Pause Ads in Streaming Platforms**

    Last week, Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president, mentioned that the company has “no intentions” for an ad-supported version of Apple TV. However, a recent report underscores a rising trend among major streaming services to adopt ‘pause ads’—advertisements that display on-screen when a viewer halts a show or film.

    ### Netflix, Amazon, Disney, and Others Are Establishing ‘Pause Ads’ as Standard

    Pause ads are becoming more prevalent across various streaming platforms. These ads are shown each time a viewer pauses their content, creating a novel advertising opportunity for services. According to Brian Steinberg from *Variety*, Peacock has delivered full-screen pause ads since its inception, while Netflix has rolled out commercials that take up either half or the entire screen during pauses. Warner Bros. Discovery is experimenting with full-screen pause ads globally, while Disney is examining a format called “Pause+,” which enlarges to full-screen only if the viewer chooses to do so.

    Leading streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and Peacock are acknowledging the advantages of pause ads. Reports suggest that both Amazon and Netflix have experienced heightened user interaction with pause ads in contrast to traditional video advertisements.

    ### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

    This trend distinguishes Apple TV as it remains ad-free for the time being. Eddy Cue’s confirmation of the lack of plans for ads is reassuring for subscribers who favor an uninterrupted viewing experience. For other streaming platforms, pause ads may appear as a sensible strategy to persuade users to sign up for pricier ad-free tiers or to create additional revenue from current subscribers.

    While certain viewers might find pause ads unappealing, the truth is that as long as ad-free choices are presented, streaming services may persist in seeking methods to optimize their advertising income.

    ### Conclusion

    The advent of pause ads signifies a noteworthy transformation in how streaming platforms handle advertising. As competition escalates, services are in search of innovative strategies to engage viewers and boost revenue. While Apple TV sustains its ad-free condition, the streaming landscape keeps evolving, and it remains uncertain how long this will persist.

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    • Comments Off on Important Update: watchOS 26 Might Continuously Modify Your Apple Watch’s Volume
    Important Update: watchOS 26 Might Continuously Modify Your Apple Watch’s Volume

    # watchOS 26: New Features and Improvements for Your Apple Watch

    watchOS 26 brings a variety of enhancements aimed at improving the user experience on the Apple Watch. Noteworthy updates include fresh watch face hints, an exclusive Notes app, and major upgrades to the Control Center. A prominent feature is the automatic volume adjustment, which is designed to facilitate a smoother interaction with notifications and alerts.

    ## Automatic Volume Adjustment: A Revolutionary Change

    A standout feature in watchOS 26 is the automatic volume adjustment. This capability enables the Apple Watch to automatically alter the speaker volume in response to the surrounding ambient noise. According to Apple, this means that alerts, timers, alarms, incoming calls, and Siri will be tuned to ensure they are perceivable without being intrusive.

    For users accustomed to Silent Mode, this feature may prompt a new approach to managing notifications. Many users, especially those who prefer haptic-only alerts, might still opt to keep Silent Mode activated. However, for those who favor audible notifications, this enhancement could greatly enrich the experience, especially in settings where noise levels vary.

    ### Advantages of Automatic Volume Adjustment

    1. **Improved Usability in Different Settings**: The feature is especially advantageous in noisy environments, guaranteeing that alerts are heard without being overpowering. In contrast, in quieter surroundings, the volume will be reduced to prevent disturbing others.

    2. **User Customization**: Users can enable or disable this feature via the Watch app on their iPhone under ‘Sounds & Haptics’. This adaptability allows for a tailored experience aligned with personal preferences.

    3. **Model Compatibility**: It is crucial to highlight that automatic volume adjustment is available only on select Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and 11, along with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3.

    ### Final Thoughts

    The rollout of automatic volume adjustment in watchOS 26 marks a significant advancement in making the Apple Watch more user-friendly and versatile across different contexts. While some users may still favor haptic alerts, the new feature offers an intriguing alternative for those who value audible notifications. As users engage with these enhancements, their feedback on effectiveness will be essential in informing future updates and features.

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