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TCL Communication Brings Display Expertise to Smartphones with TCL PLEX Launch at #IFA2019

TCL Communication today announces the launch of TCL PLEX, a smartphone that brings the brand’s renowned display expertise to a mobile form factor. Featuring TCL NXTVISION™, a proprietary advanced display optimization and camera technology, you can see your screen come to life with enriched color, clarity and contrast enhancement in real- time and have an elevated camera experience. TCL PLEX will embody the brand’s new ‘Display Greatness’ philosophy to relentlessly pursue mobile innovation excellence leveraging its unique display heritage. It offers best-in-class imaging standards with an industry-leading camera with super low-light sensor and super wide-angle lens, as well as a fluid, intuitive interface to ensure efficient interaction between you and your smartphones at all times.

 

“TCL’s legacy in display technology is second to none. We are the No. 1 TV brand in China and No. 2 TV brand globally. With the launch of the TCL PLEX, we not only want to bring our display know-how to more consumers and deliver on the key smartphone experiences – display, camera, user interface and design. We also want to open doors to a whole new future by introducing an ecosystem of smart devices that help our consumers lead more connected lives,” said Peter Lee, General Manager, Global Sales and Marketing at TCL Communication. “The TCL PLEX is the first of a new range of devices we will be releasing from next year, including our 5G products and devices with foldable displays.”

 

Indulge in a cinematic immersion with dedicated display engine and real-time SDR to HDR video enhancement

Equipped with a dedicated display engine, you can now indulge in a cinematic immersion anytime you want. With cutting-edge color accuracy thanks to TCL NXTVISION, colors on the TCL PLEX’s screen are intensified with a 6-axis color enhancement for radiant images. Edges are honed with 2D edge enhancement for sharper pictures and visual contrasts are made more striking without being over-exposed with targeted contrast enhancement. With an SDR to HDR real-time conversion feature, the TCL PLEX offers a HDR-like video enhancement with increased contrast, amplified color, brighter highlights and darker shadows. Now, you can expect stunning HDR quality entertainment at all times.

 

With so much time spent on smartphones, it is imperative to protect your eyes from strain and ensure the best display clarity constantly. The TCL PLEX does just that with ‘Adaptive Tone’, ‘Reading Mode’ and ‘Eye Comfort Mode’. ‘Adaptive Tone’ automatically adapts display brightness and adjusts color temperature so you get the best viewing experience in any condition. ‘Reading Mode’ offers a paper-like reading experience and allows you to select a list of frequently used apps where this mode can apply automatically on startup. ‘Eye Comfort Mode’ reduces eyestrain by removing 66 percent of harmful blue light emitted from the screen.

 

Featuring an in-house 6.53-inch FHD+ TCL Dotch™ Display with 90 percent screen-to-body ratio1 and a discreet front camera, as well as a Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ processor, you can now enjoy more screen and afford an exceptional entertainment experience.

 

Capture like a pro even at night with impressive low-light photography capability

The TCL PLEX is equipped with a triple camera setup so you can capture like a pro. Sporting a main camera that utilizes a 48MP ultra high-res Sony sensor with 4k recording function and a separate dedicated video camera with an industry-leading 2.9μm big pixel low-light sensor, users can make every moment extraordinary even at night with the TCL PLEX. Equipped with an innovative algorithm, the TCL PLEX has the capability to integrate auto-brightness, denoising, super resolution, HDR and more into a single AI model in the camera’s auto mode. This results in a night shot capability of up to three times brighter2 in the darkest environments. Users may also choose to up- level the night photography experience with a dedicated ‘Super Night Mode’, producing exceptionally detailed images that have greater definition, clarity and color in the dark.

 

A 16MP 123° super wide-angle camera allows users to capture four times the content3 in a single shot so they can pack more details into their images in any environment. For those who prefer to slow things down, the TCL PLEX has a flagship-level slow motion feature capable of shooting 960fps super slow-motion HD videos, even in nighttime conditions. Smart video recording detects and tracks moving subjects, automatically zooming and stabilizing the capture to keep your subject sharp at all times. What’s more, you can also stay on top of your selfie game with brighter shots on the 24MP front camera made possible by a 4-in-1 big pixel technology that combines four pixels into one during image capture.

 

Seamless user experience made possible by fluid interface housed in a compact, elegant design Take efficient interaction with your smartphone to a whole new level on the fluid and intuitive TCL UI thanks to smooth folder browsing, automatic app organization by function and swipeable image deleting. Further personalize your smartphone with ‘Smart Panel’ that adapts to your navigation habits, so going through the different functions will be a breeze. Shortcuts to preferred shooting modes can be selected in camera quick access. You can also customize the ‘Smart Key’ in 3 convenient ways – single, double and long press to access various mobile apps or commonly used features. Battery life is often at the core of every smartphone experience. The TCL PLEX also supports Qualcomm’s quick charge feature, allowing you to juice up half your battery in 32 minutes so you will never be held back by a cable.

 

Seamlessly control selected TCL smart TVs with your smartphone with full integration through T- Cast, a universal remote control and smart TV assistant app, so you never have to reach out to find the remote again. ‘TV Remote Control’ allows you to control your TV with your smartphone via touchscreen or voice commands. ‘Content Casting’ lets you to cast videos, pictures and music to your TV. Connect up to four Bluetooth speakers4 to amplify your Bluetooth experience or pair with up to four Bluetooth headphones4 to multi-share music with your friends with the Super Bluetooth multi-streaming audio solution. That way, you would always be able to share your entertainment experience.

Availability

The TCL PLEX will be available in Obsidian Black and Opal White in Q4 2019 starting with select markets in Europe at a recommended retail price of €329 (pricing varies with local VAT).

To see all the latest mobile devices from TCL Communication at IFA 2019, please visit our booth at Hall 21, Stand 102 – Messe Berlin.

 For more information about TCL PLEX, please visit http://www.tcl.com/global/en/mobile/tclplex.html.

First look at Simplisafe, An unrivalled whole home security system. #Simplisafe #Security

SimpliSafe offers homeowners an unrivalled whole home security system. Its ecosystem of finely-tuned sensors works with 24/7 monitoring to safeguard against intruders, and to alert users to fires, floods, temperature changes, and power outages. For next level security, SimpliSafe also provides a Pro Premium interactive monitoring plan, which provides 24/7 professional monitoring plus police dispatch on video verification of criminal activity, text message alerts, smartphone app controls, and camera footage storage.

Ready-made kits range from The Starter – designed for small homes and flats at £279 – to the larger Windsor and Bamburgh kits (£454 – £504). Custom systems can also be created to fit more unique homes using the Build My System tool. SimpliSafe’s Pro Premium interactive monitoring plan is £19.99 per month, whilst the Pro level plan, which solely provides 24/7 monitoring services, costs £12.99 per month.

We have the product in with us now for review so stay tuned for that and check out the package below or simply head to http://www.simplisafe.co.uk/

Panasonic announces the new LUMIX FZ1000 II #Panasonic #LUMIX #Photography

The brand new FZ1000 II is a camera for every occasion. Boasting a large 1-inch sensor and a 16x optical LEICA certified zoom lens, it is the perfect bridge camera for photo enthusiasts. Taking high-quality photographs in a wide range of different conditions is easy with advanced specifications designed to help you get the best shot. When speed is of the essence, the FZ1000 II has you covered, while 4K Photo and Video give you added flexibility. Use either the free-angle rear screen, or the high-resolution Live View Finder (LVF) to compose your shots.

Key Features

The FZ1000 II is equipped with all the best specifications you need to help you get your shot.

At the heart of the camera is a large 1-inch 20.1-megapixel High Sensitivity CMOS sensor, which boasts a high signal to noise ratio – in other words, it’s the ideal choice for capturing clear images, even in low light conditions. The 16x optical LEICA zoom lens gives you a 35mm camera equivalent of 25-400mm, making it perfect for everything from scenic photography to distant subjects. The newly added Zoom Compose Assist assures, that you do not lose your subject when it suddenly leaves the frame. An aperture range of f/2.8-4.0 is available for creating beautifully blurred backgrounds, while a new minimum aperture of f/11 is useful for highly detailed landscape shots. Additional specifications include the following:

  • 5-axis Hybrid O.I.S.+ (Optical Image Stabilizer) to compensate for handshake to achieve blur-free images at every focal length.
  • Photo Styles for creative , including the newly added L.Monochrome D mode for enhanced monochrome images.
  • Bluetooth Low Energy (4.2) and Wi-Fi connectivity (IEEE802.11b/g/n) for instant sharing via Panasonic Image App.
  • Long-Life Battery with AC- or USB Power Charging on the Go.

Capture every moment with LUMIX FZ1000 II

  • Fast operation and Light Speed autofocus
  • High-speed burst shooting
  • 4K Photo and video to capture the fastest movements.

To complement the high sensitivity sensor, the FZ1000 II has been equipped with a quick start-up time and an ultrafast autofocus of approximately 0.09 seconds. A burst rate of 12fps (AFS), plus a high-speed (electronic) shutter sporting 1/16000 seconds round off this package.

LUMIX’s famous 4K Photo capabilities help you get the shot in difficult situations. Fleeting moments can be captured at a stunning 30 frames per second, giving you the option to choose the best frame later. A newly added Auto Marking feature helps you to find the right shot quickly and easily.

Other exciting 4K Photo functions include Post Focus, Focus Stacking and the ability to combine multiple images for a fun “stromotion” effect.

Video enthusiasts can record stunningly smooth, high-resolution QFHD in 3840×2160 pixel resolution at 30/25/24p.

Perfect design

The ergonomics of the FZ1000 II have been designed to make it a comfortable shooting experience. A high-speed and high-precision 0.39-inch OLED Live View Finder has a 2,360k-dot resolution and 0.74x magnification. The eyepoint of 20mm allows for high visibility – even for photographers wearing glasses. Meanwhile, the 3.0-inch, 1,250k-dot free-angle rear monitor includes touch-control and can rotate 180 degrees to the side and 270 degrees up and down for shooting from every conceivable angle. Intuitive controls, including a front/rear dual dial system and a total of 13 function buttons puts everything you need at your fingertips.

The Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 II has a recommended retail price of £769.99 (UK) / €849.99 (Ireland) and will be available from the end of March 2019.

For more information visit www.panasonic.co.uk.

What is a VPN and Is it legal to Use VPN in Ireland? #VPN #Internet #Ireland

GUEST POST by Kevin Austin VPN is one of the many techniques employed by internet users to mask their identity. However, several questions have been raised in regards to its use.  Some countries have moved to legalize the use of VPNs while others have legalized the use citing different reasons. It is vital that one gets to understand what a VPN is and the various laws that are in place concerning its use. There is also the need to ensure that while using a VPN, one does not engage in illegal activities.

What is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network or a VPN allows users to make online connections while remaining anonymous. This is by routing the traffic via a server that masks the users’ identities.  There are different reasons , why people may opt to use a VPN. One of the reasons is while accessing the internet over public connections which are not secured. The VPN service also helps people to access geographically restricted content from certain regions by using a VPN server. People who use peer-to-peer file-sharing services such as torrents also prefer the use of VPNs to prevent being tracked or caught while torrenting.

Is it safe to use a VPN?

Using a VPN is safe as it helps you to encrypt your online connection. However, there is the need to understand that the use of VPNs does not make illegal activities legal for you. Issues such as copyright infringement while torrenting might be raised, and therefore it is essential that you distinguish between the two. The other important thing that you must understand is to find out whether the use of VPNs is allowed or not in your country. Some countries allow the use of VPNs while others do not. Some of the things that users usually take into consideration when selecting the best VPN for torrenting are the costs, speed and the location of the servers.

Is a VPN Legal in the Ireland?

The use of VPNs is legal in the Ireland. This is due to the robust freedom of expression laws and values that the country has. However, it is essential to understand that the use of VPNs is only sanctioned while undertaking legal activities. The other important aspect to note is that the law does not require service providers to retain any information about the users.


Top legal VPN providers in the Ireland

Several companies offer VPN services in the Ireland. A user can choose any of the services depending on what they want. Some of the things that users usually take into consideration when selecting a VPN service provider are the costs, speed and the location of the servers.

  1.    ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is also another service that is recommended by many people. One of the benefits of the service is that it is fast. The company’s servers are also located outside the US in the Virgin Islands thus making it impossible for the government to retrieve the data. There is the need to understand that it is not illegal to have servers hosted in other countries.

  1.    PureVPN

This is another service provider that is recommended by many people due to its speeds. It is essential to note that service providers throttle internet speeds and PureVPN is fast enough to accommodate streaming services. The company hosts servers in over 140 countries including great UK and Irish VPN servers thus making it difficult for one’s identity to be found, and also make easier to access the geo restricted content of different regions.

  1.    Buffered

Buffered also offers IP masking services to its users. This is a premium service, and users must pay for its services. One of the benefits of this VPN service is that it is user-friendly to new users and that’s why many people prefer to use it.

  1.    Hide.me

Hide.me is also a high-speed VPN service provider that can be used in the Ireland. There is the need to understand that with the VPN service, users can comfortably stream geo-blocked content and services from anywhere in the world.

Countries where the Use of VPN is Illegal

Different countries have banned the use of VPNs citing various reasons. Most people believe that the use of VPNs fosters freedom of expression, but this is not the same in these countries.  Some of the countries that have prohibited the use of VPNs are:

  1.    China

This is one of the countries that has been able to deter people from using VPNs in order to block them from accessing overseas services. As a result of this, the state has been able to promote local products and services.

  1.    Russia

Russia has also prohibited the use of VPNs because of political reasons. The government had reasons to believe that their use resulted in the spread of extremist material and therefore there was the need to ensure that the same was prohibited.

  1.    Syria

The use of VPNs in Syria is also banned. This was after the Arab spring when the government felt the need to regulate the use of the internet to prevent the spread of propaganda.  

Conclusion

It is essential to understand that the use of VPNs is necessary for people who value their privacy while online. Although there are several countries that prohibit their use, the Ireland allows VPNs. However, this is only permitted when one is doing legal activities online and not otherwise. There are many VPN service providers, and one can opt to use their services depending on their services and preferences. This is in terms of costs, speed and location.

TCL Communication introduces the company’s newest #Alcatel 1 Series smartphones as part of #CES2019

Today, at the start of CES 2019, TCL Communication is officially unveiling the company’s newest Alcatel 1 Series smartphones. The Alcatel 1X (2019) and Alcatel 1C (2019) continue the Alcatel mobile brand vision of bringing modern smartphone features and making them accessible to consumers around the world. With new designs, features and software experiences, these all-new 2019 Alcatel 1 Series smartphones include the TCL-made Full View Display and are helping redefine the entry-level smartphone experience.

“We’ve always believed that quality devices with the latest technology should be accessible to all, regardless of your budget,” said Peter Lee, General Manager of Global Sales and Marketing at TCL Communication. “We’re proud that we’ve remained true to this commitment to our customers, and the all-new Alcatel 1X and 1C prove that having a modern smartphone doesn’t have to be determined solely by what you can spend.”

The Alcatel 1X (2019) provides one of the most immersive smartphone viewing experiences in the entry segment thanks to a 5.5” (18:9) HD+ IPS Full View Display. This is combined with two all-new organic finishes, Pebble Black and Pebble Blue, that provide a textured feel that is scratch and slip resistant. It will also come with a built-in fingerprint sensor (in select markets) and the company’s Face Key technology, which offers additional facial recognition security that enables you to easily unlock your device by simply glancing at the screen. Face Key breaks down each facial scan into over a hundred data points to ensure a more reliable match.

New camera experiences are also introduced in the Alcatel 1X (2019), which includes a dual rear camera (13MP + 2MP) with real-time bokeh and new capture modes that allow you to take portrait style pictures. The secondary depth-sensing lens, combined with post-shot editing software integrated into the device, allows users to re-focus photographs and blur the rest of the picture.

The Alcatel 1X will be available in select markets in North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa starting at under $120 USD/€120 EUR beginning in Q1 2019.

The emerging market smartphone no longer means a bulky design and tiny display thanks to the all-new Alcatel 1C (2019) featuring a 5-inch (18:9) Full View Display and modern design starting at under €70 EUR. It comes with a non-slip, textured finish available in Volcano Black, Enamel Blue and Blush Pink, ensuring a comfortable grip and sophisticated aesthetic. Coming to markets in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, the Alcatel 1C (2019) also includes photo capture options like Beautification mode and Instant Collage.

Alcatel 1C (2019) is powered by Android™ Oreo™ (Go edition), which creates an entry smartphone experience that is optimized to make sure billions more can have reliable access to mobile connectivity. This includes popular pre-installed Google apps designed for increased speed, less demand on storage, and efficient data use, such as Google Go, Files Go, Google Maps Go, YouTube Go and Gmail Go, as well as performance optimizations to Chrome, Google Play and Gboard. It also features the Google Assistant for Android (Go edition), so Alcatel 1C (2019) customers can experience the convenience of the Google Assistant, whether they’re asking it questions or telling it things to do.

You can visit TCL during CES 2019 by coming to Las Vegas Convention Centre, Central Hall, Booth 12929.

For more information on the all-new Alcatel 1X (2019) and Alcatel 1C (2019), as well as other mobility devices from Alcatel, please visit www.alcatelmobile.com.

Keep moving with the August SWB200 smart activity and fitness tracker. #Fitness #Tech

When it comes to fitness trackers there is an array of them out there but when it comes to features and price there is some limitations, Smartwatches can do all the things a fitness tracker can do but their inflated prices do them no justice and people are buying fitness trackers these days and today there is a new one on the market priced very well.

August International, a UK based consumer electronics company with a vision to inspire smart innovation, today announced the launch of the SWB200 smart activity tracker. Packed full of features, this sleek, app-enabled wristband accurately tracks a user’s daily activity including steps, distance, heart rate, blood oxygen and calories burnt. It also monitors sleep, providing information on quality, duration as well as the stages of sleep, all for £54.95.

Splash and dust proof and with an impressive 30-day battery life and OLED display, the August SWB200 is perfect for everyday use and is the ideal solution for anyone wanting to get into shape or simply have a better understanding of their overall health and fitness.

The August SWB200 works in conjunction with the dedicated ‘August Pulse’ app allowing users to keep track of all the data their lifestyle generates. Compatible with iOS and Android, the wristband simply connects to the app via Bluetooth to wirelessly sync all the information. The app enables users to configure reminders for getting active or upcoming appointments and set alarms. It also monitors daily targets and progress for steps, distance and calories burnt as well as manually measures heart rate and blood pressure and reviews sleep history.

 

Aside from its activity and fitness tracking abilities, the August SWB200 keeps users connected by alerting them to alarms, calls and texts as well as notifications from a range of apps including Facebook, Twitter and What’s App. It will also send alerts for long periods of inactivity, such as sitting, to help encourage people to move more. Additionally, the August SWB200 has a clever ‘Search Wristband’ function causing the device to vibrate so it can be located easily in the event it’s misplaced. The August SWB200 can also be used as a remote photo taker – by simply rotating or shaking it, users can control their smartphone and take photos.

Sleek and lightweight, the August SWB200 has an OLED display and adjustable flexible strap that is comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Ideal for any active individual, whether they are step counting or trail running, it is splash and dustproof. Its impressive 30-day battery life ensures the device will last around a month per charge meaning it’s always ready for use.

The August SWB200 RRP at £54.95 and more information can be found on http://www.augustint.com/en/productmsg-292-326.html

ISP Airwire in Ireland Boosts Network Speeds With RADWIN’s JET PtMP. #Radwin #Airwire

RADWIN (http://www.radwin.com), the global wireless broadband provider, today announced that Airwire, an ISP in the west of Ireland, has deployed RADWIN’s JET Point-to-Multipoint Beamforming solutions to connect towns and rural communities across Ireland.

Martin List-Petersen, CTO, Airwire: “We serve residential and business customers such as SOHOs that heavily depend on quality broadband services. 80% of our customers reside in rural Ireland and our aim is to provide them with similar speeds as delivered to customers in urban areas. With the AIR subscriber units we deliver 50 Mbps to customers willing to pay a premium price to get faster speeds, much higher than what our legacy network delivers. This also allows us to offload customers from our legacy network and improve service to all subscribers as there is less contention on the legacy network.”

Concluded List-Petersen: “What we appreciate about JET is that it operates in challenging environments and delivers fiber-quality broadband. This includes rural areas where heavy vegetation poses obstacles to direct line-of-sight, and in towns where the noise level is high due to multiple ISPs all working in the same area. Another major plus is that RADWIN’s professional support services are simply outstanding. From our experience, just buying a product is never going to do it in this business because issues always crop up, it’s unavoidable. Proper support after purchasing the product is a crucial component, and RADWIN’s support team makes all the difference.”

Raymond Forado, RADWIN GM Europe: “Our JET solutions are the optimal choice for service providers seeking to deliver high-speed services to underserved areas. Our mission is to provide people living in rural areas with high speed broadband that is as good as what’s available in urban areas.”

New LUMIX FT7: The Ultimate Rugged Camera for you Outdoor Adventures. #LUMIX #cameras #Tech #4K

With 4K video and 4 waterproof/shockproof protection launching in July for €449.99 the FT7 LUMIX is one to watch and also comes in several colours, orange, blue and black.

Announcement below.

The Lumix FT7 is waterproof (up to 31m / 102ft), shockproof (to 2m/6.6ft), freeze proof (to -10°C), dustproof and pressure resistant (to 100kg/220lbf) making it the perfect rugged companion for all your extreme experiences.
With a 20.4-megapixel high-sensitivity sensor which is joined by a 28mm wide angle 4.6x (28-128mm equivalent) optical zoom lens, the FT7 also features Power O.I.S (Optical Image Stabilisation) to help keep your shots steady even during rocky activities.
New for the FT7 is a 0.2-inch 1,170k-dot equivalent Live View Finder for composing your images when screen use is impractical. Use the LVF to compose your shots in strong sunlight, with the added bonus of saving and extending battery life in harsh conditions – such as the cold. Meanwhile, the 3.0-inch rear monitor boasts the highest-in-class 1,040k-dot resolution and uses tough, tempered-glass.
Never miss an opportunity with full-resolution high-speed burst shooting at 10fps*, which is coupled with Light Speed AF. What’s more, all your incredible exploits can be captured in stunningly smooth, high-resolution 4K Video. When 10fps isn’t enough, use 4K Photo to grab even fleeting moments by shooting at 30fps in 8-megapixel equivalent resolution, extracting the best frame from a 4K burst to save as a photo.
When you want to share the thrills and spills with those back at home, you can do that easily with Wi-Fi connectivity giving you the option to upload your photos and videos to Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and more. Images can also be GPS geo-tagged to ensure you always remember exactly where your adventures took place. Don’t worry about running out of juice while on the go, as the FT7 supports USB charging for instant power from battery packs when wall charging is out of bounds.
For something extra special, take advantage of special modes such as time-lapse shooting, 22 creative filters and panorama mode, which can capture both horizontal and vertical images. The FT7 can even help with your night-time escapades, such as rock climbing or cave walking, as it can be used as a torch light, without the camera function being activated.
Other super-handy tools on board the FT7 include a compass and altimeter – making it ideal for a huge range of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, diving, snorkelling, surfing, snowboarding, skiing and mountain climbing. This is a camera that is ready to capture the moments when you’d normally have to leave your other devices behind.
It’s not just thrill-seekers that will appreciate the FT7 – use it on your beach holidays, ensuring all those special memories are captured by a camera which isn’t fazed by sand, water and anything else you and your family want to chuck at it.

Get a FREE ZIESS ONE Plus #VR headset when you buy the Nokia8 #ZIESS #Nokia8

VR has took a bit of a nosedive this year but some good things have happened but the focus is mostly AR or Augmented Reality. If like me you like your VR coming from Samsung Devices and their standalone headsets which are excellent I have not delved much into the VR scene this year as much as I would liken to.. because im using the Nokia 3,5,6 and 8 so I was hoping something like this would happen sooner rather than later but this is not specifically for Nokia devices but its a step closer and being made by ZIESS it has to be pretty decent considering how good ZEISS are in general,we all know good how their smarthpone cameras are.

 

https://youtu.be/pHurStUnwLs

However now if you buy a Nokia 8 you can claim a VR headset which is made by ZEISS which costs £49.99 you buy from nokia mobile store you can get your free headset,the device as it stands sim free is €499 which is a really good price for the specs you get in a mobile phone today. If you already own a Nokia 8 and now feel a bit burned like what Samsung do from time to time offering free VR headsets  you can buy the headset on its own right HERE 

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