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HUAWEI nova 15 Max Review: More Battery and Value for Your Money

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Evolution of the “Power-User” Smartphone: Why Battery Life is the New Gold Standard

For years, the smartphone industry chased thinner profiles and higher megapixel counts. But as we move further into 2026, the narrative is shifting. Consumers are no longer impressed by devices that need a mid-day top-up. The arrival of the HUAWEI nova 15 Max, with its massive 8500mAh battery, signals a broader industry trend: the “Power-User” era is here to stay.

The Evolution of the "Power-User" Smartphone: Why Battery Life is the New Gold Standard
Huawei South Africa retail event

The 8500mAh Milestone: Redefining Daily Reliability

We are entering an age where a smartphone is no longer just a communication tool. it is a portable office, a media hub, and a navigation system. With the nova 15 Max offering up to 23 hours of continuous video playback, the psychological “low battery anxiety” that plagues most mobile users is finally being addressed.

This trend toward high-capacity energy storage is a direct response to 5G connectivity and high-refresh-rate displays, both of which are notoriously power-hungry. By integrating reverse charging, devices like the nova 15 Max act as portable power banks, a feature that is becoming essential for the modern, multi-device ecosystem.

Pro Tip: To maximize your phone’s battery lifespan over the years, avoid letting it drop below 20% frequently. Modern “Super Battery” technology handles deep cycles better, but consistent, moderate charging is still the gold standard for long-term health.

Durability Meets Design: The New Standard for Rugged Sophistication

Gone are the days when “durable” meant bulky, industrial-looking handsets. The industry is now perfecting the marriage of aesthetics and resilience. The 5-Star Drop Resistance certification—seen in the nova 15 Max—shows that manufacturers are finally prioritizing real-world protection.

As smartphone prices climb, consumers are holding onto their devices for longer cycles (often 3+ years). This shift makes dust-sealing and impact resistance not just premium features, but essential requirements for protecting an investment.

Photography in the Dark: The Rise of RYYB Sensors

Hardware innovation is currently focused on light sensitivity. The shift from standard RGB filters to RYYB (Red-Yellow-Yellow-Blue) arrays allows sensors to capture significantly more light. This is a game-changer for night photography and indoor environments where flash often ruins the mood.

HUAWEI Nova 15 Max Review – 8500mAh on a PHONE?! 😳

Expect to see more mid-range devices adopting flagship-level sensor technology to compete with the high-end market. As AI processing continues to evolve, the combination of raw hardware light-intake and computational photography will make professional-grade images accessible to everyone.

Did you know? The human eye struggles to distinguish between high-end displays beyond a certain threshold, but the move toward 4000 nits of peak brightness is specifically designed for outdoor visibility, ensuring your screen remains readable even under the harsh midday sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a smartphone battery “Super”?
A “Super” battery typically refers to high-density cells—like the 8500mAh unit in the nova 15 Max—that provide significantly higher capacity without requiring a massive increase in physical device size.
Is reverse charging bad for my battery?
No. Modern smartphones are designed with intelligent power management systems that regulate temperature and voltage, ensuring that reverse charging is safe for both the host device and the accessory being charged.
Why is the RYYB sensor better than standard sensors?
The RYYB filter array replaces green pixels with yellow ones, which are more sensitive to light. This allows the camera to absorb up to 40% more light, resulting in clearer, brighter photos in low-light conditions.

Stay Ahead of the Tech Curve

The smartphone market is moving toward a future where hardware durability and battery longevity are the primary indicators of quality. Whether you are a professional needing all-day connectivity or a casual user who hates carrying a charger, these advancements are designed to keep you moving.

Frequently Asked Questions
Huawei nova 15 Max device

What is the most important feature you look for in a new phone? Battery life, camera quality, or durability? Join the conversation in our comments section below and let us know your thoughts!

For more in-depth reviews and the latest tech news, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

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Business

Missed SASSA Postbank Deadline: What Happens Now?

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Digital Shift: Why South Africa’s Grant System is Evolving

The transition from legacy SASSA Gold Cards to the modern Postbank Black Card represents more than just a plastic upgrade; it is a fundamental shift in how social security is managed in the digital age. As technology evolves, financial institutions worldwide are pivoting toward systems that prioritize biometric security and fraud mitigation to protect the most vulnerable populations.

Securing the Future of Social Grants

Financial inclusion is a cornerstone of economic stability. By moving away from older card systems, Postbank is aligning with global banking standards that utilize enhanced encryption and stronger protection against unauthorized deductions. This migration is designed to ensure that grant money reaches the intended recipient without the risk of exploitation.

From Instagram — related to Pro Tip
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the final hour. By switching your card early, you avoid the inevitable month-end rush at retail outlets, ensuring your grant access remains uninterrupted when you need it most.

Addressing the Barriers to Financial Inclusion

Despite the benefits, the shift has highlighted significant challenges, particularly for rural and elderly beneficiaries. Long queues and the need for physical travel to replacement sites remain a hurdle. Industry experts suggest that the future of social welfare lies in “mobile-first” banking solutions, where biometric verification could eventually replace the need for physical cards entirely.

SASSA Card Migration | EC moving steadily along with process

The Impact on Vulnerable Communities

For millions, social grants are a lifeline for food and basic survival. When infrastructure fails or systems are upgraded without adequate community support, the impact is felt immediately in household budgets. Organizations are now calling for more decentralized distribution points to ensure that those with limited mobility are not left behind in the digital transition.

What You Need to Know: Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is the card being replaced? The new Postbank Black Card offers superior security features and is part of a national effort to modernize the social grant payment infrastructure.
  • Is there a cost to switch? No, the replacement of the SASSA Gold Card with the Postbank Black Card is free of charge at designated sites.
  • What documents are required? You only need to bring your valid South African ID or a temporary ID document.
  • Can I use my old card after the deadline? No. Once the transition period concludes, the old Gold Cards will no longer function for withdrawals or retail purchases.
Did you know? The global trend in social welfare is moving toward “Direct Benefit Transfers” (DBT). This method uses digital ledger technology to reduce administrative overhead and ensure that 100% of the allocated grant amount reaches the beneficiary’s account instantly.

Looking Ahead: The Path Toward Digital Sovereignty

As South Africa continues its journey toward a digital economy, the successful migration of grant recipients is a vital step. Future trends indicate that interoperability between banks and government departments will become seamless, allowing beneficiaries to manage their finances via mobile apps or USSD codes, reducing the reliance on physical branches.

To stay updated on changes to social grant policies and financial security tips, subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Have you successfully migrated your card yet? Share your experience in the comments section below to help others in your community navigate the process.

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Business

Rising Home Loan and Credit Costs: What Consumers Need to Know

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Great Debt Squeeze: Navigating Life in a High-Interest Era

For many households, the dream of financial freedom is currently being tested by a shifting global economic landscape. With central banks—including the South African Reserve Bank—moving to hike interest rates, the cost of borrowing has hit a critical inflection point. Whether you are managing a mortgage, vehicle finance, or credit card debt, the math of everyday living is changing rapidly.

The Great Debt Squeeze: Navigating Life in a High-Interest Era
Rising Home Loan

Recent data indicates that the prime lending rate has climbed to 10.50%, a move designed to combat inflation fueled by volatile global oil prices and geopolitical instability. For the average indebted household, this isn’t just a headline; it’s an immediate reduction in monthly disposable income.

Why Your Debt-to-Income Ratio Matters More Than Ever

The latest reports from the DebtBusters Debt Index paint a sobering picture: consumers earning over R50,000 monthly are increasingly finding that their entire take-home pay is required just to service existing debt. When your debt-to-income ratio climbs above 300%, you lose the “financial buffer” necessary to handle unexpected life events, such as medical emergencies or home repairs.

Why Your Debt-to-Income Ratio Matters More Than Ever
Financial
Pro Tip: Before taking on new credit, calculate your “debt service coverage ratio.” If your debt repayments exceed 30% of your gross monthly income, focus on aggressive debt reduction rather than new purchases.

The Hidden Cost of “Lifestyle Creep” and Credit Dependence

Financial strain often leads to a reliance on unsecured lending. When real salaries—what your money can actually buy after inflation—stagnate or decline, the temptation to bridge the gap with payday loans or credit cards becomes overwhelming. However, this creates a vicious cycle. With the average number of credit agreements per person reaching record highs, many families are essentially “borrowing from tomorrow” to pay for today.

Strategic Moves for Financial Resilience

While the macroeconomic environment is largely out of our control, your personal financial strategy is not. Adapting to a “higher-for-longer” interest rate environment requires a shift in mindset:

Strategic Moves for Financial Resilience
South African Reserve Bank headquarters
  • Prioritize High-Interest Debt: Always pay down credit cards and personal loans before allocating extra funds to lower-interest debt like home loans.
  • Audit Your Subscriptions: In an era of shrinking real salaries, “micro-leaks” in your budget—like forgotten streaming services or unused memberships—add up quickly.
  • Build a Liquidity Buffer: Aim for at least three months of living expenses in a high-yield savings account. This prevents you from needing to use high-interest credit when an emergency strikes.
Did you know? Financial stress is one of the leading causes of decreased productivity and sleep loss. Improving your debt management isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s essential for your mental well-being.

Expert Outlook: Looking Toward 2027

Economists suggest that businesses and consumers alike are adopting a “wait-and-see” approach. Investment in new ventures is slowing, and workforce expansion is being tempered by caution. For the individual, So job security should be a priority. Focus on upskilling and maintaining a lean, flexible budget that can withstand potential further tightening of monetary policy.

Interest rate announcement by Lesetja Kganyago

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do interest rate hikes specifically affect my home loan?
A: If you have a variable-rate mortgage, your monthly repayment will increase directly in line with the prime rate hike. Even a 25-basis point increase can add significant costs over the remaining life of the loan.

Q: Should I consolidate my debt?
A: Debt consolidation can be a useful tool to lower your monthly payments by combining high-interest debts into one lower-interest loan. However, it only works if you stop adding new debt to the mix.

Q: Is inflation expected to cool down soon?
A: While central banks are acting pre-emptively to curb inflation, factors like global oil prices and supply chain disruptions mean that price volatility is likely to persist for the remainder of the year.

Are you feeling the impact of rising interest rates in your household budget? Share your strategies for staying afloat in the comments section below, or subscribe to our weekly financial newsletter for more expert insights on managing your wealth in changing times.

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News

Public Works Department Hit by Cadre Deployment Scandal

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has launched an investigation into allegations of irregular recruitment practices within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. The probe follows a formal complaint lodged by ActionSA Member of Parliament Malebo Kobe, which specifically challenges the appointment of the Chief Director: Executive Support in the Office of the Director-General.

The commission confirmed that the matter has been escalated to its Public Administration Investigation Division for intervention. According to the PSC, the complaint outlines potential violations of Regulations 65 and 67 of the Public Service Regulations, which govern how senior roles must be filled to ensure transparency and merit-based selection.

Did You Know? The complaint alleges that the official in question was brought into the department through a memorandum arrangement involving the African Development Bank, rather than through a standard, publicly advertised recruitment process.

Allegations of Procedural Failure

The investigation centers on claims that the appointment process bypassed statutory requirements. Specifically, the complaint alleges that the position was never publicly advertised and that there was no properly constituted selection committee or interview process, as required under the Public Service Act and Regulations.

Allegations of Procedural Failure
Dean Macpherson Public Works

Further allegations suggest that the appointee may lack the necessary qualifications or experience for the position. ActionSA has called for the scope of the PSC investigation to expand beyond this single role to determine if other senior appointments within the department were conducted in violation of legal and regulatory standards.

Expert Insight: At the heart of this dispute is the tension between government administrative efficiency and the principles of meritocracy. When public trust is challenged by allegations of “cadre deployment,” the burden shifts to oversight bodies like the PSC to demonstrate that internal mechanisms are sufficient to hold political offices accountable for their hiring practices.

What Happens Next

The PSC is expected to conduct a formal review to establish whether any officials acted unlawfully or improperly in facilitating the appointment. Should the investigation confirm the allegations of circumvented procedures, it could lead to significant scrutiny regarding the department’s recruitment governance. ActionSA has stated it will support the commission’s process and is calling for accountability for any wrongdoing uncovered during the inquiry.

The DA’s Dean Macpherson shares his journey into politics and reflects on 1 year of GNU.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PSC investigating?
The PSC is investigating allegations of irregular appointments within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, specifically regarding the Chief Director: Executive Support in the Office of the Director-General.

What are the specific concerns raised?
The complaint alleges that the post was not publicly advertised, lacked a proper selection committee, and that the appointee may not possess the required qualifications for the role.

How did the appointment allegedly occur?
It is alleged that the individual was brought into the department at the insistence of the Minister through a memorandum arrangement involving the African Development Bank.

How should the government balance the need for specialized expertise with the requirement for transparent, merit-based hiring?

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Business

Sizekhaya: A New Era for the National Lottery

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

A New Era for the National Lottery: What Sizekhaya Holdings Means for South Africa

As the South African National Lottery prepares for a significant transition, the shift in custodianship from Ithuba Holdings to Sizekhaya Holdings marks more than just a change in management. It signals a strategic pivot toward modernization, digital integration, and a renewed emphasis on community impact.

With an eight-year license term beginning in June 2026, the consortium led by industry figures Moses Tembe and Sandile Zungu faces the challenge of revitalizing a national institution. For players and stakeholders alike, this transition offers a glimpse into the future of gaming in South Africa.

The Digital Transformation of Gaming

One of the most anticipated shifts is the move toward a more robust digital ecosystem. Modern lottery operators are increasingly moving away from purely physical retail models. By leveraging digital channels, the new operator aims to meet South Africans where they are—on their smartphones.

From Instagram — related to South Africans, Pro Tip

Global trends in the lottery industry show that mobile-first strategies increase player engagement among younger demographics. By integrating seamless payment gateways and mobile-responsive interfaces, the lottery is poised to become more accessible to urban and rural populations alike, provided that infrastructure keeps pace with these technological ambitions.

Pro Tip: When playing online, always ensure you are using official, secure platforms. Verify your account early to avoid delays during high-jackpot periods when traffic on gaming sites peaks.

Bringing Back the “Shared Experience”

Perhaps the most nostalgic yet forward-thinking move is the return of live, televised lottery draws. In an era of fragmented media consumption, live events provide a rare “water-cooler” moment that fosters a sense of national unity.

Televised draws are not just about spectacle; they are a vital component of operational integrity. Transparency is the bedrock of public trust in any gaming institution. By inviting the public back into the drawing process, the operator is essentially doubling down on accountability.

Beyond the Jackpot: The Developmental Mandate

While the allure of a life-changing jackpot drives ticket sales, the true value of the National Lottery lies in its contribution to the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund. Every ticket purchased serves as a micro-investment in local sports, arts, and community development.

Did you know? The lottery funding model is designed to sustain projects that often struggle to secure traditional corporate sponsorship, ranging from rural grassroots sports clubs to major cultural heritage programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How will the transition affect current players? Players can expect a focus on increased accessibility, both through traditional retail partners and new digital platforms.
  • Is the National Lottery secure? Yes, the lottery operates under strict regulatory oversight. Verification processes, such as phone or ID authentication, are in place to ensure fair play and prevent fraud.
  • Where does the money from ticket sales go? A significant portion of revenue is directed toward the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, which supports charitable and developmental causes across South Africa.

Looking Ahead: Trends to Watch

As we move further into 2026 and beyond, watch for these three trends:

Frequently Asked Questions
National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund
  • Hyper-Localization: Retail partnerships will likely expand into smaller community hubs to ensure convenience.
  • Enhanced Responsible Gambling Tools: Expect more sophisticated, AI-driven tools to assist players in managing their participation responsibly.
  • Integrated Social Responsibility: A stronger emphasis on measuring the tangible ROI of lottery-funded projects within local communities.

What are your thoughts on the future of the National Lottery? Do you prefer the convenience of digital play or the tradition of physical tickets? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest updates on the South African gaming landscape.

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News

Papa Penny joins Floyd Shivambu’s Afrika Mayibuye Movement

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Gezane Eric Kobane, widely recognized as “Papa Penny,” has joined the Afrika Mayibuye Movement following his resignation from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and Parliament. The announcement was made by Afrika Mayibuye Movement leader Floyd Shivambu during a media briefing in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

Shivambu confirmed that the movement has accepted the membership of the “Shangaan Disco King,” noting that Kobane will occupy a key leadership position within the organization.

Strategic Leadership in Limpopo

Papa Penny is tasked with leading the movement’s campaign efforts within the Greater Giyani Local Municipality in Limpopo, as well as other reachable areas. Shivambu highlighted Kobane’s experience as a dependable political figure, citing his tenure as a councillor in the Greater Giyani Municipality for more than 10 years.

From Instagram — related to Greater Giyani Local Municipality, Greater Giyani Municipality

According to Shivambu, Kobane was the best-performing councillor for Ward 5 in the Greater Giyani Municipality, making him a strategic choice to head the campaign programme in that region.

Did You Know? Papa Penny served as a councillor in the Greater Giyani Municipality for over a decade and was recognized as the best-performing councillor for Ward 5.

Internal Conflict and Resignation

Kobane’s transition follows his resignation from the MK Party and Parliament last week. In a resignation letter addressed to former President Jacob Zuma, Kobane cited internal conflicts, including vilification and attacks from the party’s Limpopo provincial leadership.

Kobane stated that while he accepted that the struggle for emancipation could come at a personal cost, he did not expect challenges to arise from within his own organization. He described the internal behavior as a “betrayal” that was impossible to overlook.

He further expressed concern over media statements he claimed were intended to damage his dignity and the reputation he spent decades building. Despite these conflicts, Kobane thanked President Zuma for the opportunity to serve in the National Parliament.

Expert Insight: The recruitment of a known regional figure like Papa Penny, paired with a wave of specialized appointments, suggests a calculated effort by the Afrika Mayibuye Movement to convert individual popularity into structured organizational capacity ahead of the 2026 polls.

Preparations for 2026 Elections

The addition of Papa Penny is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the organization before the local government elections scheduled for November 4, 2026.

FORMER MK PARTY MP PAPA PENNY JOINS AFRIKA MAYIBUYE MOVEMENT

Shivambu announced several other key appointments to build this capacity, including:

  • Dr Moselene Du Plessis: Deputy national organiser
  • Themba Nzimande (Skeem GP): Head of mobilisation
  • Precious Mthiyane: Head of membership
  • Nweti Bila: Head of business development
  • Molatelo Mahladisa: Head of elections
  • Lufuno Buda: Coordinator of the religious desk
  • Grace Dlamini: National coordinator of transport
  • Blessing Ramoba: Head of the Mayibuye Agricultural Support Programme

Shivambu called upon capable South Africans to engage with the movement’s policies, asserting that those free from class, ethnic, or racial prejudices would find their positions correct.

Future Outlook

With these new appointments and the addition of Kobane, the Afrika Mayibuye Movement may see an increase in its organizational reach. The movement’s focus on the Greater Giyani Local Municipality could potentially shift the political dynamics in Limpopo as the November 4 election approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Papa Penny resign from the MK Party?
He cited internal attacks, vilification, and reputational damage allegedly caused by the party’s Limpopo provincial leadership.

What is Papa Penny’s new role in the Afrika Mayibuye Movement?
He will play a key leadership role and lead the movement’s campaign in the Greater Giyani Local Municipality and surrounding areas.

When are the next local government elections?
The local government elections will be held on November 4, 2026.

Do you believe high-profile individual appointments are the most effective way for new political movements to build organizational capacity?

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ANC says Ramaphosa’s Tolashe removal shows commitment to ethical governance

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Sisisi Tolashe from her position as Minister of Social Development. The decision has prompted a widespread political response, with parties across the spectrum describing the move as a necessary step amid growing public pressure and mounting allegations.

ANC Praises Commitment to Ethics

The African National Congress (ANC) has praised the intervention, framing it as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to ethical governance. ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu stated the party “welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to remove Comrade Sisisi Tolashe as Minister of Social Development in line with his constitutional responsibilities and commitment to ethical governance.”

From Instagram — related to Department of Social Development, President Cyril Ramaphosa

To maintain stability, Sindisiwe Chikunga has been appointed as the acting minister. The governing party noted that this appointment would ensure “continuity, stability and uninterrupted service delivery in this critical portfolio.”

Bhengu further asserted that the move shows the seriousness with which the ANC and the President approach the fight against corruption, maladministration, and ethical lapses. The party argued that anti-corruption efforts have “moved beyond rhetoric into concrete action” through accountability measures and Special Investigating Unit proclamations.

Did You Know? RISE Mzansi highlighted that the Department of Social Development manages nearly R300 billion in public funds.

Opposition Parties Claim Pressure Forced Action

While opposition parties also welcomed the removal, several suggested the President only acted after sustained political and public pressure. Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis stated the DA welcomes the firing “following the relentless pressure applied by the DA for her removal from Cabinet.”

Opposition Parties Claim Pressure Forced Action
Department of Social Development

Hill-Lewis described Tolashe’s position as “untenable” and urged the President to urgently appoint a permanent replacement. He emphasized that South Africans deserve a credible minister who can lead the department with integrity and a focus on serving vulnerable people.

Similarly, Freedom Front Plus MP Philip van Staden argued that the President had “no choice” but to dismiss Tolashe as allegations intensified. Van Staden cited claims regarding the “improper use of vehicles donated by the Chinese Embassy,” the alleged employment of a state official as a private caregiver, and irregular appointments within the department.

Expert Insight: This dismissal reflects a high-stakes environment within the Government of National Unity. The swift reaction from multiple opposition parties suggests that the Department of Social Development has become a primary litmus test for whether the current administration can translate its anti-corruption rhetoric into tangible administrative consequences.

Demands for Transparency

RISE Mzansi described the removal as a “necessary step toward restoring the public’s trust” in a department serving the country’s most vulnerable. The party pointed to the “highly irregular appointment of an unqualified Chief of Staff” and unresolved questions regarding luxury vehicle donations as major distractions.

RISE Mzansi warned that public funds should not be managed under an “ethical cloud,” stating that accountability “must be the standard, not the exception.”

Future Implications

Following this decision, political parties may continue to demand that the full report and findings leading to the dismissal be disclosed to the public. There is likely to be continued pressure on President Ramaphosa to swiftly appoint a permanent minister to restore stability to the department.

The government could face further scrutiny over governance and accountability as parties call for greater transparency regarding the circumstances of Tolashe’s exit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has been appointed to lead the department in the interim?
Sindisiwe Chikunga has been appointed as the acting minister to ensure continuity and stability.

What specific allegations were cited by the Freedom Front Plus?
MP Philip van Staden cited allegations involving irregular appointments, the alleged use of a state official as a private caregiver, and the improper use of vehicles donated by the Chinese Embassy.

How did the ANC characterize the President’s decision?
The ANC described the move as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to accountability and ethical governance, showing seriousness in tackling corruption and maladministration.

Do you believe the appointment of an acting minister is sufficient to restore public trust in the Department of Social Development?

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