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Accessing the Internet with Cell Phones: Getting Started
Cell Phones as International Travel Companions
Cell Phones for All: Accessibility for Those with Hearing Impairment
Cell Phones for An Aging Population:
The Problem
Potential Solutions
Current Contenders to Consider
Cell Phones: Text Messaging as a Second Language
Tips for Staying Safe on the Road
Cell Phones with the Most
Parting with Your Cell Phone
The Birth of Cell Phone TV
Return to current cell phone articles
Access to the internet has been available via cell phones for quite a number of years and in many countries, especially in
The popularity of using cell phones for internet access in the
How to Connect
WAP, or Wireless Application Protocol, was developed specifically to provide internet access for mobile phones and PDAs. Because WAP was designed differently than the World Wide Web, users can best view sites designed specifically for WAP and therefore get a smaller, revised version of what is on the web. Many WAP based services offer the ability to retrieve e-mail, check stock quotes, obtain movie listings, flight times, and similar types of information. Services such as 4INFO and even Google offer a wireless search service designed specifically for mobile/cellular devices.
To use the wireless internet, a cell phone can either be used as a modem with a laptop computer to connect to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) or it can connect to a cellular provider's data service. For instance, Verizon, Cingular, and Sprint all offer data service plans allowing internet access.
What is Needed
To make a connection to the internet, a cell phone must be web enabled. It should be either dual mode or tri mode so that it can handle both voice calls and data transmission. In addition, the cellular service provider must transmit via digital signals versus analog. Users will also need to become familiar with the data service plans to be well acquainted with any charges associated with the service. When necessary the cellular service provider should also be able to provide any needed cables and software to make the phone to laptop connection
Other considerations
As is true with almost any new service or product, those new to internet services via their cell phone should try it on for size at the store before buying. Not all service providers offer equal connection speeds. The display size on a cell phone is generally small which makes browsing of websites somewhat tedious but newer PDA phones offer screens that are significantly larger and certainly connecting to a laptop makes viewing easier as well. For users who just want to check e-mail and obtain information on the weather, stock quotes, sports scores, etc. the smaller screen of the average cell phone should not be a problem however. Smaller key pads, less memory, occasional connection disruption, and less power can be drawbacks of using a cell phone for internet access but improvements continue to occur. Overall, for those who like to stay connected the affordability and convenience make using a cell phone for internet activity an excellent option.
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As citizens of the
Unfortunately, cell phones/cell phone services in the various countries can use different types of radio frequencies and encoding. While in the majority of European, Asian, and African nations GSM is the standard, this is not so in the
There are a few options for travelers in assuring that they have a compatible cell phone but probably one of the more affordable is to purchase an unlocked GSM cell phone or an international/world phone. T-Mobile and Cingular are the largest providers of GSM phones in the
Travelers can check http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/index.shtml to determine what frequencies are used in various countries around the world.
It is possible for travelers to use International Roaming if they simply have a GSM cell phone that will operate on the appropriate frequency and their
If a traveler wants to avoid some of the more highly priced International Roaming charges they can obtain an unlocked GSM phone or world phone and install a SIM card which is compatible with the service in the country they will be visiting. Service in the country of destination would then need to be purchased, but luckily it is often possible to purchase a set number of pre-paid minutes to use rather than committing to a lengthy agreement or monthly plan. As with any purchase it is wise to compare pricing of the various options and to become knowledgeable about fees and what will and will not be covered in the pre-paid minutes. On the upside for US travelers, most other countries do not charge cell phone users for incoming calls.
Once a traveler has a compatible GSM phone, SIM card, and service is arranged then they are set to be able to make and receive calls while away. Before boarding the plane however, it is also important to remember to take along an appropriate adapter to assure that the new phone can be charged when needed.
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Cell phones are an integrated part of the lives of most Americans. They are used for both personal and business purposes. Even more importantly however, cell phones play a role in safety based on their portability. In many situations, cell phones are the only immediate access to emergency services such as 911. For this reason, the accessibility of cell phones is critical for all citizens, including those with hearing impairment.
There are over 6 million individuals in the
In 2003, the FCC set forth regulations for the telecommunications industry in an attempt to assure access to the products and services offered for individuals with hearing impairment. The aim of the regulations is to assure that those with hearing impairment are able to learn about and operate products and services effectively. The regulations are being phased in over a period of a few years and will reach an important milestone on
By the September deadline, Tier 1 cellular service providers such as Cingular, Sprint-Nextel, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless must provide at least 5 cell phones, or 25% of their models, which meet ANSI U3T or M3T ratings. This would assure the availability of cell phones that emit lower radio frequency and could provide telecoil coupling capability; both of which would reduce or eliminate unwanted noise. In addition, these cell phone models will need to be present in retail stores so that they can be tested by consumers. By
For those seeking additional information about the FCC regulations, more information can be obtained at: www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/section255.html
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Technological gadgets have become more prevalent in the lives of the average person in recent years. In addition, these same devices have expanded their individual repertoire of capabilities becoming far more complex. No longer is a cell phone a cell phone; it is a camera, a television, a computer, and MP3 player among other things.
Despite the burgeoning functions of cell phones and other devices, they continue to be further miniaturized to meet the market demands of a certain segment of the population. This headlong race for the smallest and most complex device has given many increased connectivity and efficiency, but has completely ignored a huge portion of the world's consumers; the elderly as one example. Although there are many well over the age of 65 who have no difficulty using modern gadgets including the cell phone, there are far more who are cut off from important products and services that been designed for an entirely different group of people.
There are a number of physical changes that occur as people age and certainly a number of physical disorders that are more common among the elderly which make the use of smaller and more complex cell phones either difficult or impossible for a significant number of those in the upper age categories. This issue with accessibility is particularly problematic in a population which could greatly benefit from the immediate and easy communication that cell phones are supposed to provide.
A number of physical disorders that tend to strike the elderly can limit motor abilities. Tremors, general weakness, and coordination problems can be among the results of these diseases but the reduced range of movement from arthritis is the most prevalent. Per the Center for Disease Control, the prevalence of physician diagnosed arthritis in adults is estimated to be 33% in the
Hearing impairment is another condition that has high prevalence in the elderly. Research reported in the August 2005 issue of the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, indicated that an estimated 40-45% of all individuals over 65 years of age and greater than 83% of those over age 70 experience hearing loss. This can explain why high pitched ring tones, low volume headsets, and incompatibility with hearing aids limit the usefulness of cell phones for a significant portion of older individuals.
Certainly, for the vast majority of those over 40 the ability to focus on objects and print in close proximity degrades over time making tiny screens with small fonts and small print on the keypad difficult to see. For other individuals, add to this the issue of macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy that are significantly more prevalent in those over 65, and the average cell phone is rendered useless.
Although there is great variability within the over 65 demographic, another factor which can make modern cell phones difficult for some of these individuals is their unfamiliarity with more recent technologies and the complexity of using the device. The feature laden cell phone models that are highly coveted by the younger, often more technologically savvy population can be too complex to operate for those who have less experience with similar gadgets.
In addition to the increasing complexity and physical requirements necessary to operate modern cell phones, the features they offer are geared more toward a younger crowd as well. Although there are certainly exceptions, frequent text messaging, downloading, and listening to popular songs and movies for instance are generally features that hold greater value for a youthful audience.
For an aging population that wishes to maintain their independence and to utilize tools that simplify rather than complicate their lives, cell phones that better accommodate older users will need to be designed to meet the different abilities, needs, and desires of these individuals. The older population is a significant portion of the market and should drive some of the future design and development of cell phone products and services.
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Cell phones have become the primary method of voice communication. These devices are credited with saving lives based on their easy, immediate access at all times. As cell phones have evolved however, they have taken on a multitude of other functions; acting as cameras, MP3 players, computers, television, and so forth. Increased complexity has been the result of these expanding functions while the physical size of the devices has been shrinking steadily. For a significant portion of the population, this has created problems in using cell phones.
At some point in middle age, people begin to experience a gradual decline in physical/motor skills, hearing, and vision. This occurs in part because of aging and is exacerbated at times due to certain illnesses that are more prevalent in the elderly. Because their abilities differ from that of the population targeted by tech developers, "advancements" have actually hindered the accessibility for older individuals. The independence and safety of this portion of the population could be significantly increased by technology products that were designed with their needs in mind. With the 2000 US Census reporting nearly 27% of the population to be 50 years of age or older and 12% over age 65, there would seem to be a significant market need for cell phones of different design.
Certainly surveying the potential market would be a good starting point to identify design needs. Such a market survey should include not only individuals in the upper age categories but also the millions of family caretakers and health care providers who have a vested interest in the well being of older individuals. A list of just a few of the potential beneficial features might include:
· An increase in the overall size of the cell phone
· A change in shape or material to assure an easy, secure grasp
· Materials and construction to resist damage when dropped
· Larger LCD screens with larger fonts; color and contrast to enhance visibility
· Functions/features that can be accessed/used with fewer keystrokes
· Larger keypad, larger buttons/keys with larger print
· Lower pitched ring tones with adjustable volume
· Hearing aid compatibility
· Greater ability to increase speaker volume.
Other models might be designed for those with more significant motor or hearing problems. Use of a flashing light to alert the user to a call received in addition to the ring tone could reduce missed calls and phones with voice activation and a "loudspeaker" could reduce the motor demands and better ability to hear callers.
Although not everyone over the age of 65 would wish to forgo all of the bells and whistles, in many instances a more simplified cell phone with fewer functions would be welcomed. There is certainly a portion of the population over 65 and well under it also, that would prefer a phone that allows them to make and receive phone calls exclusively; with a minimum of button pushing. At one extreme, the ability to access just a few preprogrammed numbers with a single button, including 911 is the only need. Obviously cell phones, with these limited features should be supported by cellular plans that offer less talk time and lower costs.
Even for those who do opt for multi-functioning cell phones, different features might rank higher on the list of wants and needs for this segment of the population. Perhaps a feature to act as a medication reminder, the ability to monitor blood sugar or blood pressure, or even as a GPS device for eyes that have difficulty with focusing on maps might be preferred over the ability to download and listen to music.
Another consideration that might make cell phones more marketable and useful to an older population is to assure the quality of the signal and voice reception. Hearing aid compatibility can reduce unnecessary noise that occurs for those with hearing aids but boosting overall signal quality would benefit all users as distortion, break up, and dropped calls affect everyone.
Finally, it would also be important to assure that any model cell phones developed should be available locally in brick and mortar businesses or should offer a trial period of 30 days. Having the ability to put hands on these devices and operate them is important for anyone who is apprehensive or unsure of their ability or desire to operate them. Many of these individuals may be reticent to order their cell phone via telephone or online sight unseen.
Certainly, the physical skills, interest level, and needs of older individuals will vary significantly from person to person, but to target this population in marketing research would do much to reveal the features that would make a more "senior friendly" cell phone a successful and highly useful device.
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The utility of cell phones have made them extremely popular devices. However, as cell phones have advanced in recent years with increasing functions and features, their rising complexity and declining size have made them difficult to access for those with decreased motor, auditory, and visual skills. Included among those who have difficulty with access are a significant number of those people over the age of 65.
Most recent developments with cell phones have clearly focused on a younger population. Tiny multi-tasking devices that allow taking photos, downloading and listening to music, viewing video, and so forth are often more highly valued by a more youthful audience.
Modern cell phones also demand excellent eye sight and fine motor skills to be able to operate them reliably. Although there are certainly many exceptions, vast numbers of older individuals either do not possess the visual and motor skills to operate such devices, are overwhelmed by the complexity, or simply do not desire the multiple functions offered on today's cell phones.
Clearly, cell phone designs should be offered to the public which are "friendly" to a broader audience. The critical functions of a cell phone are important to more than just one particular segment of the population. In this area, the cell phone industry has much work yet to accomplish, however there are some models currently available which offer at least some of the features that could be useful for older individuals.
There are a number of products on the market to boost/amplify volume. All of the major cellular providers offer individual cell phone models which are hearing aid compatible and possess speakerphone capabilities while others offer one button dialing for a handful of pre-programmed numbers. However, if the user wants more function, the screen and button size on these phones would be problematic and the phones still tend to be somewhat complex. Other models such as the Samsung t719 offer voice activated dialing but the screen and keypad are still quite small. Some retailers recommend the Firefly which is simpler and allows for one button dialing of preprogrammed and emergency numbers. However, older adults would need to overlook the bright colors, flashing lights, and glow as this cell phone is designed for young children.
Jitterbug is currently the phone that seems to offer many of the features necessary. These phones offer large buttons, easy to read text with a backlit display, louder volume, and speaker phone capabilities. Models with a regular numeric keypad or simplified one button dialing with direct access to 911 are available.
These phones have a padded ear piece to reduce outside noise and are hearing aid compatible. Voice Dialing is possible for any number in the user's phone list. Assistive services allow users to dial directly or to use operators to place calls. The phone arrives with frequently called numbers pre-programmed into it and updates to the phone list can be assisted or done independently. The phone allows users to pre-program up to 50 phone numbers.
Jitterbug service plans are affordable and simplified but still offer nationwide coverage. These phones are probably the strongest current competitor in the market for a simplified but adult appropriate cell phone. These phones are currently available online only (jitterbug.com), but offer a 30 day money back guarantee.
There is some hope that other cell phones will enter the market which will prove useful. Austrian maker
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Recent news stories have reported a phenomenon that most knew existed: there is a gap in the use of text messaging between younger and older cell phone owners. Reports vary but indications are those 12 to 30 years of age account for 80% of text messaging usage.
Because of the instantaneous nature of texting and the tiny keypads and screens on a cell phone, an entire language has developed around text messaging. For those cell phone owners who do not make use of text messaging, the intricacies of this language can make messages almost incomprehensible. This language is abbreviated for speed and ease of use. It is a rather phonetic language where single letters or numbers may stand for entire words, such as "Y" for "why" or "8" for "ate". Vowels may be omitted to further reduce keystrokes, such as "btwn" for "between" and capitalization and punctuation are rare. Acronyms are used for phrases and whole sentences such as "ADBB" for "all done, bye, bye". Symbols are also common in text messaging language.
Non-verbal communication such as facial expression and tone of voice have been said to express more meaning than words themselves in a spoken message. In any form of written communication this is lacking. This is particularly true in text messaging. Knowing whether the phrase "thts gr8t" (that's great), is expressing something positive or sarcastic is important when communicating. Texting allows the user to create "emoticons" or "smileys" to add the tone to a comment. For instance, "thts gr8t :)" would give the statement a positive meaning while typing "THTS GR8T" would indicate a shout for excitement.
Because of the uniqueness of the communication, those who do not make use of messaging on their cell phone are at a loss then for understanding or communicating in this texting language: the language of their children, grandchildren, younger co-workers, and many others. Certainly knowing the language of those with whom there is a need to communicate is a tremendous advantage.
Text messaging with a cell phone can offer other advantages that non-users might want to consider as well. Text messaging is less expensive than talk time and allows the user to communicate basic messages without incurring unnecessary expense. Text messaging can also be a great way of remaining accessible without creating a disturbance. Obviously, when taking a cell phone call in a meeting or in a crowded area, all those nearby are disrupted as the call is answered and conversation ensues. With text messaging others are seldom aware that an interruption has even occurred. One other distinct advantage of text messaging over voice calling can be the ease of communicating via cell phone with a person who has hearing impairment.
There are a number of ways to dive into the world of cell phone texting. One method used by many parents is to consult a child who is a habitual user of text messaging. However, for those on their own in the endeavor there are many resources to consult. Online, netlingo.com and webopedia.com provide references to assist cell phone owners in learning the vocabulary of text messaging. Another site, lingo2word.com offers a translator to assist cell phone owners in composing a text message or to translate a text message they receive into plain English. Other sites can assist with texting in other languages such as Transclick.com which, for a fee, will translate text messages in real time. A visit to the local bookstore or to Amazon.com will also reveal a number of reference books that can be invaluable for beginners.
Certainly, use of text messaging can be a challenge for those who are unaccustomed to what at first glance appears to be a more impersonal method of communication or for whom it may merely be a foreign or unnecessary concept. However, learning and using text messaging can certainly open the doors of communication to a broader audience just as learning any second language.
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As most people would agree, operating a motor vehicle requires attention to avoid a catastrophe such as a crash. Obviously, there are numerous things that can distract a driver and create a potentially disastrous lapse in attention: retrieving an item that is dropped, holding a conversation with a passenger, or simply daydreaming while behind the wheel. Studies in the past 10 to 15 years however have consistently indicated that use of cell phones while driving is particularly risky. Undoubtedly, with well over 200 million cell phone users in the
Although initial studies probed issues related to the use of hand held devices which forced drivers to take their eyes off of the road while dialing, or use their hands to support the phone while talking, studies in more recent years have focused on examining the effects of distraction caused simply by talking on cell phones; even in the case of hands-free devices. The results of most of these studies concluded that although hands-free phones reduced the visual and mechanical distraction, the "cognitive" distraction of simply being involved in the cell phone conversation was still present and was more critical in impairing driver performance. Thus, switching to a hands-free device does not appear to reduce the risk of accident.
The benefits of having a cell phone available when driving is not in question. Cell phones have proven their utility in countless situations where emergencies have arisen. Safety issues instead center on how these devices can be safely and responsibly used by drivers. It is not the intent of this brief article to review the multitude of studies conducted but instead, to simply offer a few suggestions on how to reduce driving risks related to cell phone use. Obviously, merely switching to a hands-free device is not the all encompassing answer.
For those cell phone user's who rely on their driving time to conduct business by telephone or to hold conversations with family members and friends who are always on the go, the answers may seem discouraging at first glance but when considered in light of the possible risk of life are rather minimal.
Cell phones continue to play an important role in our society and, in a number of instances, can do much to protect lives. However, like any significant distraction when driving, they can create potentially life-threatening situations. Drivers should carefully evaluate the risks to themselves and others when choosing to engage in any activity that takes away from the focus of operating a car. Responsible use of a cell phone when driving can possibly be the difference between life and death.
So, you're in the market for a new cell phone. There are so many to choose from, where do you begin? We've all seen the buying guides helping to assess your needs, the numerous features, and the pros and cons of the various models. But what if you just want the most, whether it's the most expensive, the most popular, or whatever. Well, conversations with retailers, online searches, informal surveys, and even a few formal surveys were conducted to identify five of the cell phones with the most, and here they are:
So there you have it, the current cell phone stand outs. Although not the ultimate buying guide, it's food for thought in an industry with seemingly endless features and a market that changes every few months.
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Americans love their cell phones but we are a fickle group. Although certainly some phones cease to function, many of us simply want the latest and greatest. The average person uses a cell phone approximately 18 months before replacing it. With 200 million plus users in the
It is currently estimated that there are 500 million cell phones sitting on shelves or in landfills in this country with an additional 2 million phones being added to this total weekly. The EPA has designated mobile phones as hazardous waste due to their lead, mercury, cadium, and arsenic content. Thus, we are faced with the environmental/health issues that arise as well as the economic impact of wasted resources.
So, what are we to do when the time comes to part with a beloved cell phone? There are of course numerous options when you are ready to “trade up” or trash your phone. For those of you who are wishing to rid yourself of not only your cell phone but also a current cellular contract, it may pay to investigate the option of trading your phone and contract via subleasing. One such site that can assist with this is www.celltradeusa.com. CellTradeUSA basically connects individuals who wish to get out of a contract with people wanting to get in. You can post a free ad indicating the monthly fee, the minutes, and the remaining contract period that would be assumed. There is a single fee of $19.99 to gain unlimited access to responses from your posting. Once someone is found to assume the contract, the process is brief and simply involves a credit check by the cellular provider and signing a transfer contract. This system allows users to get out of contracts early, pass along their phone to another user, and avoid any early termination fees.
If you are among those cell phone owners who simply wants to trade up without guilt and with less expense than paying full price for the new phone with all the bells and whistles, you might want to check out sites that allow you to “trade”. One such site is www.trademyphone.com. This site allows you to send in your old phone and obtain a new phone at a reduced cost. The other option offered is simply taking cash for your phone. (www.cashmyphone.com) Users are able to determine the value of their phone via a search of the site. Not all models are accepted but their list is extensive. Another program that readily offers cash for old phones is www.simplysellular.com.
If you want to support charitable organizations you can investigate other options. The www.grcrecycling.com program allows users to sell or donate phones to their choice of several charitable programs. Another program, www.collectivegood.com refurbishes donated cell phones to provide affordable wireless service throughout the
One other option for your old cell phone of course is checking for available programs through your wireless service provider. For instance, Verizon Wireless offers the Hopeline program which collects phones from any provider to assist victims of domestic violence. They also conduct a battery recycling program. Similarly, T-Mobile has a “Get More, Give More” program for recycling batteries, PDAs, accessories, and phones to benefit charities.
Once you’ve decided it’s time to part with your cell phone there really are numerous options. You can simply search on line for the recycling or disposal program of your choice, terminate services for your phone, clear the memory, remove the SIM card, and move on.
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In 2005, multimedia cell phones which provide the streaming video necessary for viewing television became a market force. More than a year later, the use of cell phone TV is still quite small but definitely growing in the
What Is the Video Quality Like With Cell Phone TV?
For anyone considering the purchase of a multimedia phone to view TV, it is important to understand that the technology is still new and under development. The quality of the video is still evolving. The video on cell phones that is currently offered is not always fluid and sound can sometimes be muffled. However, for those investigating the service it's important to understand that the quality can vary quite a bit by carrier as they utilize different digital technology to deliver the signal. Therefore, consumers should be sure to test out the different carriers before making a choice. As cellular carriers continue to upgrade technologies in the coming years, it would be logical to assume that video quality on cell phones will be greatly enhanced as well.
What Is It Like Watching TV on a Small Cell Phone Screen?
For many people, one of the primary questions about the ability to actually enjoy watching cell phone TV, is in regards to viewing entertainment and news on a tiny 2" or 3" screen. There are a couple of differences with cell phone TV that make the tiny screen quite tolerable although not a replacement for the great room TV. First, is the simple fact that users view the screen from only 10-12" inches versus from 10 feet or so. The difference in viewing distance makes the tiny screen much more comfortable than many people would imagine.
Another difference with watching cell phone TV is that the programming being viewed generally is not full length episodes. Much of what viewers see with cell phone TV are mini-television episodes, original content developed specifically for cell phones and other mobile devices. This prevents users from having to sit for extended periods of time holding their cell phone within 12 inches of their face. The brief episodes can provide good entertainment or information that fits nicely within a short subway commute or break in the work day.
What Are the Cost Consideration of Cell Phone TV?
Another question that often arises is the cost of cell phone TV. Obviously cell phones that support yet another feature generally have a higher price tag although certainly free multimedia phones can be had when committing to a 1 or 2 year cellular plan. Another cost factor is battery life. Obtaining good video consumes a lot of battery power. Manufacturers are of course continuing efforts to develop energy sources that can support the multitude of functions on our multi-tasking cell phones so this should become less of an issue over time. The other cost inherent with cell phone TV is the charge associated with the programming offered or the data plan for that carrier. Most data plans will run between $10 and $25 per month in addition to the regular calling plan however the time spent watching the video usually does not count against the air time allotted within the calling plan.
What Programming Is Available on Cell Phone TV?
Many cellular providers now offer some form of cell phone TV, such as Verizon's Vcast, but there are other options as well. One service that is currently popular is MobiTV which offers viewers channels such as MSNBC, ABC News Now, CNN, Fox News, Fox Sports, ESPN, 3GTV, NBC Mobile, CNBC, CSPAN, TLC, The Discovery Channel, Weather Channel, music videos and more.
Currently, cell phone TV can offer a good diversion during long waits and can keep busy people up-to-date. As with all technology, advancements with the video quality will continue in the coming years but this is the birth of cell phone TV and you are there.
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