Tag: Source: 9to5mac.com

“AirTag 2 Encounters Higher Anticipations Compared to Other Apple Offerings”

# Apple AirTag 2: Anticipations for the Next Tracker

Apple is said to be preparing for the release of the AirTag 2 in 2024, roughly four years after the initial AirTag was launched. While the first model of this tracking device garnered positive feedback, there are greater expectations for the upcoming version, especially concerning privacy and security functionalities. Here’s a detailed overview of what we can look forward to in the AirTag 2 and the considerable challenges it faces.

## Major Updates in AirTag 2

The AirTag is a device that doesn’t typically see yearly revisions due to its simple operational nature. Nevertheless, as time progresses and new issues arise, Apple seems set to bring forth significant upgrades. Sources in the industry reveal that the AirTag 2 will uphold a design similar to the original but will incorporate several important enhancements:

1. **Better Range**: Users should look forward to improved connectivity, which will provide more dependable tracking across larger distances.

2. **Advanced Wireless Chip**: The forthcoming version will come with a more powerful onboard wireless chip, which is expected to enhance overall effectiveness and efficiency.

3. **Strengthened Privacy Features**: This aspect might be the most vital for the new AirTag 2, as Apple seeks to tackle the privacy issues that have affected the first version.

## Privacy Issues: A Significant Hurdle

Since the initial AirTag’s introduction, numerous cases of abuse have emerged, notably in instances of stalking. The device has been misused to track people without their permission, resulting in severe breaches of privacy. In light of these problems, Apple has rolled out various modifications to alleviate such risks, but the company acknowledges that further actions are necessary.

Mark Gurman, an eminent technology journalist, indicates that Apple intends to make it more difficult to detach the speaker from the AirTag 2. This change is aimed at ensuring that any AirTag misused for harmful purposes will still produce sound, aiding victims in recognizing and finding the device.

Moreover, there are aspirations that Apple will enhance the internal speaker’s functionality, making alerts louder and harder to ignore. The ultimate objective for Apple should be to construct a device that is as hostile to stalkers as feasible.

## The Significance of User Privacy

Apple has consistently promoted user privacy as a fundamental principle, yet the AirTag has unintentionally turned into a tool for some significant privacy infringements. Therefore, the company faces an exceptional challenge with the AirTag 2: it needs to enhance the technical specifications while also affirming its dedication to user safety and privacy.

To accomplish this, Apple will probably need to introduce both hardware and software upgrades that tackle the weaknesses of the original AirTag. This could involve features that notify users if an unfamiliar AirTag is nearby, along with more effective tracking and reporting systems for individuals who suspect they are being monitored.

## Conclusion: Elevated Expectations for AirTag 2

As Apple gears up to unveil the AirTag 2, the stakes are considerable. The company must strike a careful balance between boosting functionality and safeguarding user privacy. With insights gained from the inappropriate uses of the original AirTag, Apple has a chance to redefine the product and establish a new benchmark for privacy in tracking gadgets.

What modifications do you wish to see in AirTag 2? Leave your feedback in the comments below.

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Overcast Unveils Updated Listening Metrics and 48-Hour Reversal Feature

# Overcast Podcast Player Unveils Thrilling New Additions in Recent Update

The well-known podcast player, Overcast, has officially launched a major update that upgrades user experience with two highly awaited features: **Listening Stats** and a **48-hour History and Undo** capability. These enhancements not only elevate the app’s performance but also furnish users with important insights into their podcast listening behaviors.

## Fresh Listening Stats Feature

Among the key improvements in this update is the **Listening Stats** feature. Overcast users can now monitor their podcast listening patterns across different periods—daily, monthly, or annually. This feature enables users to identify which podcasts they’ve tuned into the most over the past two years, offering a thorough summary of their audio journey.

### Key Highlights of Listening Stats:
– **Top Podcasts Overview**: Users can check their most-listened-to podcasts by year, month, or day, with data accessible from the beginning of 2023.
– **Social Sharing**: The feature comes with the ability to create images of your favorite podcasts, simplifying the process of sharing your listening stats on social networks.

This fresh functionality not only injects an element of enjoyment into podcast listening but also motivates users to discover new shows based on their listening trends.

## 48-Hour History and Undo Functionality

In addition to the Listening Stats, Overcast has launched a **48-hour History and Undo** feature. This upgrade is especially beneficial for users who might accidentally skip a podcast or delete an episode they wanted to retain.

### Key Highlights of the 48-Hour History and Undo Feature:
– **Accidental Seeks**: If you inadvertently seek too far ahead in a podcast or leave your device playing overnight, you can easily reverse those actions.
– **Episode Recovery**: Users can retrieve deleted episodes, podcasts, or playlists within a 48-hour timeframe, ensuring errors can be corrected without losing content.

This feature expands upon the **undo seek** capability that was added earlier this year, further improving the app’s functionality.

## Premium Subscription Revision

While these new features are accessible to Overcast Premium users, it’s crucial to note that the price of the subscription has risen from $9.99 to $14.99 per year. This marks the inaugural price hike in Overcast’s eight-year existence, effective for new subscribers starting November 21, and for existing subscribers upon renewal.

Marco Arment, the creator of Overcast, shared the reasoning behind the price adjustment:

> “My business model is to deliver a substantial surplus of value to you over time, significantly exceeding what I charge, so when I eventually request more, it’s an obvious choice. I trust I’ve accomplished that for you.”

Numerous users, including loyal fans of the app, feel that the previous price was overly generous considering the continuous upgrades and new features being implemented.

## Conclusion

Overcast continues to reinforce its status as a premier podcast player with these new functionalities. The Listening Stats and 48-hour History and Undo features not only enhance user experience but also offer valuable insights into listening patterns. While the price increase may be a factor for some, many users recognize the ongoing value that Overcast provides.

For those eager to explore these new features, Overcast is available for download on the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857). You can also hear more about the update from Marco Arment on the latest episode of the

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“Investigating the Potential for Apple to Venture into the Television Market: A Survey for Feedback”

# Handling Push Notifications: An In-Depth Guide In the current digital environment, push notifications have emerged as a vital means of engaging users and providing timely updates. However, the ease of push notifications carries the obligation of managing them properly. This article delves into the management of push notifications, the advantages of personalization, and the

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UK Carrier O2 Creates AI Grandmother Called Daisy to Distract Scammers [Video]

### O2’s Daisy: The AI Grandma Battling Phone Scammers

In a world increasingly inundated with phone scams, the UK mobile carrier O2 has launched a groundbreaking solution: Daisy, an AI-driven grandmother crafted to engage and distract phone scammers. This initiative seeks to safeguard consumers by keeping fraudsters preoccupied, thereby diminishing their likelihood of targeting unsuspecting individuals.

#### The Idea Behind Daisy

Daisy is a component of a larger initiative to fight phone scams via technological means. The concept is straightforward yet impactful: the longer a scammer remains on the line, the fewer potential victims they can approach. By using an AI that imitates the traits of a slow-talking, tech-inept elder, O2 aims to establish a barrier against these unscrupulous calls.

This idea was popularized by a similar application called Lenny, a voice chatbot that employs pre-recorded audio snippets to interact with unwanted callers. Lenny’s effectiveness has been proven in several instances, where it has managed to keep scammers engaged for long durations, sometimes even up to an hour.

#### How Daisy Functions

Daisy works in real-time, responding to calls from fraudsters and engaging them in dialogue. The AI is engineered to let the scammer know that they are not speaking to an unsuspecting target, thus thwarting their attempts to commit fraud. O2 urges its customers to stay alert and leave the “scambaiting” to AI experts like Daisy.

To report a scam call or message, individuals can text the number 7722. This service checks the reported number and adds it to a database of known scam targets, further bolstering the community’s defenses against fraud.

#### The Significance of Reporting Scams

O2 highlights the necessity of reporting suspected fraudulent calls and texts. By doing so, users aid in a collective effort to combat phone scams. The more information is accumulated about these scams, the better positioned authorities and service providers are to take action against them.

#### See Daisy in Action

O2 has released a demonstration showcasing Daisy in action, illustrating how the AI engages with scammers. This not only serves as a deterrent to fraudsters but also raises consumer awareness about the methods used by scammers and the importance of being cautious when receiving unsolicited calls.

#### Conclusion

The launch of Daisy by O2 represents a pivotal advancement in the battle against phone scams. By harnessing AI technology, O2 is not only safeguarding its customers but also contributing to a broader movement aimed at diminishing the incidence of fraud. As consumers grow more knowledgeable about the strategies employed by scammers, initiatives like Daisy remind us to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

In a digital landscape where scams are becoming increasingly advanced, creative solutions like Daisy provide hope and protection for consumers everywhere.

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Shazam Reaches Landmark of More Than 100 Billion Songs Identified

# Shazam Marks a Significant Achievement: More Than 100 Billion Songs Identified

Shazam, the well-known music recognition platform purchased by Apple in 2018, has accomplished an impressive feat: users have now identified over 100 billion songs. This extraordinary milestone highlights the app’s extensive usage and its essential function in how individuals discover and engage with music in the digital era.

## The Most Recognized Song: “Dance Monkey”

Among the multitude of tracks identified via Shazam, “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I emerges as the most identified song, with over 45 million recognitions. This infectious melody, which soared to the top of charts globally, illustrates Shazam’s ability to connect listeners with music that resonates with them.

## Seamless Integration into Apple’s Ecosystem

While the independent Shazam app remains accessible for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, its integration within Apple’s ecosystem has become progressively effortless. Users can now directly tap into Shazam’s song recognition features through various Apple services and devices.

### Features for Control Center and Action Button

One of the most prominent integrations is the option to add a Song Recognition widget to the Control Center on iPhones. This functionality enables users to effortlessly identify songs playing in other apps or via the microphone with just a few taps. Moreover, users with iPhone 15 and newer models can designate the Shazam Music Recognition feature to the Action button, further enhancing the convenience of identifying songs on the move.

### Improvements for Apple Watch Users

With the launch of watchOS 11, Apple has made further enhancements to the Shazam experience for Apple Watch users. The watch now automatically incorporates a Music Recognition shortcut into the Smart Stack when it senses loud music in the vicinity. This feature guarantees that users can swiftly identify tracks without having to take out their phones.

## Shazam Insights in Apple Music

Apple Music is also utilizing Shazam’s extensive data to improve its playlists and offerings. For instance, the platform has launched features like “Radio Spins,” which monitor the songs that are most frequently broadcasted on radio stations. This integration not only enriches the listening journey for Apple Music subscribers but also delivers valuable insights into musical trends and listener preferences.

## Final Thoughts

Shazam’s achievement of identifying over 100 billion songs stands as a reflection of its lasting acclaim and the changing dynamics of music discovery. As it continues to integrate more profoundly into Apple’s ecosystem, Shazam is set to remain an essential resource for music enthusiasts worldwide. Whether through its standalone application or its functionalities integrated into Apple devices and services, Shazam is transforming how we relate to music in our everyday lives.

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“Revealing the Best-Selling iPhone Models from Apple: Unexpected Selections and Their Justifications”

# A Deep Dive into iPhone Model Sales: An In-Depth Analysis

In the early stages of the iPhone’s existence, Apple presented a singular model designed to meet the needs of all users. Fast forward to the present day, and the company now boasts four flagship models annually, in addition to the iPhone SE and various older iterations. This array of options can be daunting for both consumers and analysts, yet recent studies have illuminated which models are excelling in the marketplace.

## Analysis of iPhone Model Sales

Recent research conducted by CIRP highlights intriguing trends in Apple’s iPhone sales over the last few years, revealing insights into consumer choices. The report provides a thorough comparison of the various models, focusing on their sales percentages for the current year (2024), excluding the iPhone SE:

– **Base Model:** 42%
– **Plus Model:** 13%
– **Pro Model:** 19%
– **Pro Max Model:** 26%

At first glance, these statistics might be unexpected, particularly given the widespread belief that premium models would prevail in sales. However, a deeper dive into the data presents a more complex narrative.

## Important Insights That Clarify the Sales Figures

One of the most notable elements of the sales data is the striking success of the base iPhone model. While many may presume that the base model’s lower price point enhances its appeal, those who monitor iPhone sales trends understand that the Pro and Pro Max models frequently take the lead in annual sales.

So, how is it that in 2024, the base model eclipsed the Pro model by more than double its sales and nearly equaled the combined sales of the Pro and Pro Max? The key lies in how Apple classifies its models.

Apple typically launches one Pro and one Pro Max model at once, while consumers can select from multiple base models. Currently, the Apple Store lists three different base models at various price tiers, which significantly elevates their total sales figures.

For example, if you visit the

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Apple Defends Elimination of Musi from App Store as Fans Boycott New iPhones

### The Legal Dispute Involving Musi: A Free Music Streaming Platform

The current legal conflict concerning the free music streaming service Musi has piqued the interest of both users and industry analysts. With Apple recently taking down the app from its App Store, a court hearing is scheduled for January 2024. This article explores the nuances of the matter, scrutinizing the app’s appeal, the legal claims involved, and the potential effects on its user community.

#### What is Musi?

Musi is a complimentary music streaming platform that enables users to listen to music sourced from YouTube. Its popularity has ballooned, especially among adolescents, thanks to its distinctive feature: seamless music streaming following an initial advertisement upon app launch. In contrast to Spotify’s free version, which inundates listeners with audio advertisements, Musi offers a more fluid listening experience, making it a preferred option for many.

#### The Legal Dispute

The essence of the legal conflict revolves around YouTube’s claim that Musi breaches its terms of service by using music without appropriate licensing agreements. Conversely, Musi contends that it operates like a web browser, simply facilitating access to content that is publicly available online.

This conflict has created a convoluted legal environment, with experts split on which party presents the more compelling legal argument. In light of YouTube’s grievances, Apple opted to remove Musi from the App Store while the case remains unresolved, a decision that Musi has challenged. The app’s creators assert that this action could threaten their business before any court decision is made.

Apple has asserted that it remains neutral in such disputes but must safeguard itself against potential legal consequences. The company has claimed that Musi has not presented adequate proof of its financial viability, despite reports suggesting that the app earned over $100 million in advertising revenue from January 2023 to spring 2024.

#### User Feedback and Consequences

For current users, the situation is especially frustrating. While they can keep using Musi on their devices, purchasing new iPhones will hinder their ability to reinstall the app. This has spurred a wave of dissatisfaction among Musi enthusiasts, many of whom have turned to platforms like Reddit to voice their grievances. Some users have even pledged to postpone upgrading their iPhones until the legal matter is settled.

Musi’s distinctive features, such as the capability to assemble playlists with an unlimited number of videos—far surpassing YouTube’s limitation of 5,000—are mentioned as factors contributing to its uniqueness. One user remarked, “Musi is the only playback system I have to play all 9k of my videos/songs in the same library,” underlining the app’s specialized functionality that transcends merely being a free substitute for paid services.

#### Conclusion

As the legal confrontation regarding Musi progresses, the ramifications for both the app and its user base continue to be substantial. The verdict in the court case will not only influence the future of Musi but may also establish a precedent for how music streaming applications engage with content providers like YouTube. For the time being, Musi users are left in a state of ambiguity, wishing for a favorable outcome that would permit them to keep enjoying their beloved music streaming service uninterrupted. The case reflects the complexities present in the digital content domain, where innovation and legality frequently find themselves in conflict.

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Graykey iPhone Hacking Tool Gains Limited Access to iPhone 16, As Beta Releases Improve Security Protocols

### Graykey Tool’s Limited Access to iPhone 16 Models: Essential Insights

Recent disclosures have indicated that the Graykey iPhone hacking tool, created by Magnet Forensics, can provide “limited” access to iPhone 16 models. However, this access depends on the device not operating on any iOS 18 beta versions. This situation prompts serious concerns about the security of Apple devices and the ongoing conflict between law enforcement bodies and technology firms prioritizing user privacy.

#### Insights into Graykey and Its Rivals

Graykey is primarily intended for law enforcement, allowing agencies to retrieve data from locked iPhones. It rivals Cellebrite, another significant entity in the mobile forensics sector. Both firms offer hardware and software solutions that take advantage of vulnerabilities in iOS to access data. These tools are commonly used in criminal investigations, but they also bring forth ethical questions surrounding privacy and security.

Graykey and Cellebrite acquire zero-day vulnerabilities—security weaknesses unknown to Apple—from hackers. This fosters a perpetual cycle of discovering vulnerabilities and patching them, as black-hat hackers aim to capitalize on their findings while Apple and the security research community strive to close these loopholes.

#### Graykey’s Functionality with iPhone 16 Models

As per leaked documents secured by **404Media**, Graykey can achieve full access to iPhone 11 models and “limited” access to iPhone 12 through iPhone 16 models. The term “limited” is somewhat vague, potentially suggesting restricted access to unencrypted files or metadata associated with encrypted files. Notably, the last major hardware barrier seems to have been introduced with the iPhone 12.

Apple consistently upgrades its security measures, increasingly hindering tools like Graykey from accessing user data. A recent update introduced a Before First Unlock (BFU) state that activates after four days of inactivity, encrypting all user data and complicating access for law enforcement further.

#### The Consequences of iOS 18 Betas

One remarkable finding from the leaked documents is that Graykey cannot access any devices that are running the iOS 18 beta versions, irrespective of the iPhone model. This suggests that Apple’s most recent software updates are effectively impairing Graykey’s functionalities. However, it remains uncertain whether Magnet Forensics is seriously exploring methods to breach these beta versions or if the lack of access is due to inadequate motivation.

#### Safeguarding Your iPhone from Vulnerabilities

While the likelihood of Graykey or Cellebrite obtaining access to your device is fairly low—considering that both tools necessitate physical access and are exclusively available to law enforcement—there are measures you can adopt to strengthen your security:

1. **Maintain Updated iOS**: Regularly updating your device to the latest iOS release, whether stable or beta, is your foremost defense against vulnerabilities. Apple consistently patches security flaws, making it more difficult for tools like Graykey to operate effectively.

2. **Activate Robust Security Features**: Implement features like Face ID or Touch ID, in conjunction with a strong passcode, to provide multiple layers of security to your device.

3. **Understand Inactivity Configurations**: Be aware that your iPhone will enter a BFU state after four days of inactivity, which encrypts user data. If you expect to need access to your device, it’s advisable to use it regularly.

4. **Stay Updated**: Keep informed about news concerning mobile security and vulnerabilities. Awareness can empower you to make knowledgeable choices regarding your device usage.

#### Final Thoughts

The findings regarding Graykey’s capabilities with iPhone 16 models highlight the ongoing cat-and-mouse dynamic between tech companies and those aiming to exploit weaknesses. While the tools accessible to law enforcement can threaten privacy, remaining informed and taking proactive steps regarding device security can significantly reduce these threats. As technology continues to advance, so will the strategies employed to safeguard user data.

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Apple Requests Court to Dismiss DOJ Antitrust Case Today

### Understanding the DOJ Antitrust Case Against Apple

Recent events indicate that attorneys representing Apple are likely to ask a federal judge to dismiss the antitrust case brought by the Department of Justice (DOJ) against the tech corporation. This case has attracted significant attention within the tech sector, prompting debates regarding market control and equitable competition.

#### Background of the Case

The DOJ has been examining Apple for a number of years, investigating whether the firm has breached antitrust regulations by exploiting its leading position in the U.S. smartphone sector. In March 2024, the DOJ formally charged Apple, claiming that the company engaged in actions that hindered competition and negatively impacted consumers.

The lawsuit, consisting of 88 pages, has been described as extensive and somewhat lacking in focus. Detractors have referred to the DOJ’s method as a “spray and pray” approach, where multiple accusations are thrown into the process in hopes that some will resonate during proceedings. The DOJ has collected a variety of past antitrust grievances against Apple, along with fresh allegations, into a single comprehensive case.

#### Apple’s Response

In reaction to the DOJ’s claims, Apple has categorically rejected all accusations and has pledged to robustly challenge the charges. The company maintains that its operations are not only lawful but also crucial for promoting innovation. Apple argues that its limitations on developers’ access to its technology are justified and that requiring competitors to share its technology would ultimately stifle innovation instead of encouraging it.

#### The Motion to Dismiss

As a component of its defense approach, Apple plans to argue for the case’s dismissal. The firm will claim that the DOJ’s allegations lack substance, asserting that the accusations do not accurately represent the competitive landscape of the smartphone industry. Apple’s legal team is expected to highlight that its business practices aim to enhance user experience and ensure security, rather than suppress competition.

#### Implications of the Case

The resolution of this case could bring significant consequences for both Apple and the wider tech industry. Should the court rule in favor of the DOJ, Apple may have to modify its business practices, potentially allowing for increased competition within its ecosystem. This could result in changes regarding app distribution on iPhones and the manner in which developers engage with Apple’s technology.

On the other hand, if the court dismisses the case, it could uphold Apple’s existing business model and establish a precedent for the handling of similar cases in the future. The tech giant has already encountered scrutiny in the European Union, where it was found guilty of antitrust infringements, leading to operational changes there.

#### Conclusion

The DOJ antitrust case against Apple represents a multifaceted legal conflict that underscores the ongoing friction between large tech entities and regulatory agencies. As Apple gears up to contest the allegations, the outcome will impact not only the company itself but could also influence the future of competition within the technology industry. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the developments of this case, as it may establish crucial precedents for antitrust legislation in the digital era.

In the mean time, Apple’s tactic of pushing back against the DOJ’s accusations demonstrates its commitment to sustaining its business model while navigating the increasingly intricate landscape of global antitrust examination.

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“Control Ultimate Edition for Mac Scheduled to Launch on February 12, 2025”

### Control Ultimate Edition Arriving on Mac: Key Information

The gaming world is buzzing with enthusiasm as Remedy Entertainment has announced that the highly praised action-adventure title, *Control Ultimate Edition*, will be releasing on Mac starting February 12, 2025. This revelation signifies a major achievement for Mac gamers, who have patiently awaited the opportunity to enjoy this award-winning game on their systems.

#### A Brief Synopsis of Control

First introduced in 2019, *Control* swiftly drew attention due to its distinctive combination of supernatural powers, an engaging storyline, and an immersive atmosphere. Players assume the role of Jesse Faden, the new Director of the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC), as she confronts an extraterrestrial menace that has invaded the agency’s headquarters in New York City. The game features a third-person viewpoint and a gameplay style that encourages players to leverage a mix of psychic abilities, customizable gear, and dynamic settings to tackle obstacles.

The *Ultimate Edition*, launched a year later, encompasses all previously released expansions and improvements, establishing it as the ultimate version of the game. It has garnered multiple awards for its groundbreaking gameplay mechanics, breathtaking visuals, and captivating narrative.

#### What to Anticipate from the Mac Version

Though specific system requirements for the Mac version have not yet been revealed, it is believed that the game will be optimized for Apple’s M-Series processors. Consequently, players will probably need a Mac equipped with an M1, M2, or a newer chip to effectively run the game. The shift to M-Series architecture is expected to boost performance, offering smoother gameplay and enhanced graphics.

#### Recent Announcements from Remedy

The announcement was made during Remedy’s Capital Markets Day, where the company revealed exciting updates about their current and future projects. Alongside the news of *Control Ultimate Edition* making its way to Mac, Remedy disclosed that *Alan Wake 2* has exceeded 1.8 million units sold and hinted that *Control 2* will be developed as an action RPG. Furthermore, a free update for the original *Control* is scheduled for early 2025, unlocking previously available content for players.

#### Conclusion

The impending release of *Control Ultimate Edition* on Mac is an exhilarating progression for gamers eager to immerse themselves in this supernatural realm. Boasting a rich narrative, innovative gameplay, and stunning visuals, the game is set to provide an unforgettable experience. As the release date draws nearer, more information regarding system requirements and gameplay features is expected to surface, ensuring players are fully equipped to face the challenges awaiting them in the FBC headquarters.

For additional information and updates, stay tuned to Remedy’s official channels and gaming news websites.

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