5 Best Features of ADW.Launcher EX APK You Should Know

ADW.Launcher EX APK Features adw.launcher ex apk

Remember the days when customizing your Android phone felt like unlocking a secret world of possibilities? Before the streamlined interfaces of today, there existed a vibrant ecosystem of launchers, each offering a unique take on how we interact with our devices. One such launcher, etched in the memory of many Android enthusiasts, is ADW.Launcher EX. This wasn’t just another homescreen replacement; it was a pioneering force in Android customization, offering a level of control and flexibility that was unheard of at the time. Furthermore, it paved the way for many of the features we now take for granted in modern launchers. So, what made ADW.Launcher EX so special? Let’s delve into the history and functionality of this iconic piece of Android software, exploring its impact on the mobile landscape and examining why it continues to hold a place of nostalgic reverence for many users. Moreover, we’ll consider how it compares to contemporary launchers and whether its legacy extends beyond its years of active development.

At a time when Android was still finding its footing, ADW.Launcher EX emerged as a beacon of innovation. Initially released as a free app, it quickly gained popularity for its extensive customization options. Users could tweak virtually every aspect of their homescreen, from icon sizes and layouts to dock configurations and transition effects. Moreover, ADW.Launcher EX was among the first launchers to introduce features like custom gestures, scrollable docks, and support for various icon packs. This level of control was a game-changer, allowing users to truly personalize their devices and create a unique mobile experience. Consequently, ADW.Launcher EX became a staple for many Android enthusiasts, fostering a dedicated community that shared custom themes and configurations. Furthermore, the developer actively engaged with the community, incorporating user feedback and consistently releasing updates with new features and improvements. This collaborative approach further solidified ADW.Launcher EX’s position as a leading launcher in the early days of Android.

While ADW.Launcher EX may no longer be actively developed, its influence on the Android launcher landscape remains palpable. Many of the features it pioneered, such as custom gestures and scrollable docks, are now standard fare in modern launchers. In fact, several popular launchers today can trace their lineage back to ADW.Launcher EX, borrowing inspiration from its design and functionality. Of course, the mobile landscape has evolved significantly since the heyday of ADW.Launcher EX. Modern launchers often prioritize simplicity and performance, opting for a more streamlined experience. Nevertheless, for those who experienced the golden age of Android customization, ADW.Launcher EX holds a special place in their hearts. It represents a time of boundless experimentation and a testament to the power of open-source software in shaping the mobile experience. Ultimately, ADW.Launcher EX serves as a reminder of how far Android has come and the innovative spirit that continues to drive its evolution. It’s a nostalgic trip back to a time when tweaking your homescreen was a form of self-expression, and a testament to the enduring legacy of a truly groundbreaking piece of software.

What is ADW.Launcher Ex APK?

ADW.Launcher Ex APK was a popular Android launcher back in the days of Android 1.6 (Donut) through to around Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean). Think of it like a customizable home screen replacement. It offered a way to personalize your Android experience beyond the basic options available on most phones at the time. Remember, back then, Android wasn’t as polished or customizable as it is today. ADW.Launcher Ex gave users a way to really make their phones their own. It let you tweak everything from the app drawer’s appearance (how your apps are displayed) to the dock at the bottom of the screen, and even offered support for custom icons and themes. This level of customization was pretty groundbreaking at the time.

The “Ex” in the name signifies that it was a paid, enhanced version of the original ADW.Launcher. While the free version was great, the Ex version unlocked a whole bunch of extra features and customization options. People were happy to pay a small fee for the added flexibility. Some of these extra features included things like adding more icons to the dock, using custom gestures, and transitioning effects. It really opened up a world of possibilities for making your phone feel unique.

Unfortunately, ADW.Launcher Ex, like many apps of its era, eventually faded into the background. Newer launchers emerged with more modern features, and ADW.Launcher Ex wasn’t actively maintained for a long time. While you might still find the APK file floating around online, it’s important to be cautious. Installing apps from untrusted sources can be risky, especially older apps that haven’t been updated in years. There’s no guarantee they’ll work properly on newer Android versions, and they could potentially pose security vulnerabilities. If you’re looking for a customizable launcher today, you’re better off exploring some of the more current options available on the Google Play Store. Many excellent and free launchers carry on the spirit of customization that ADW.Launcher Ex pioneered.

Here’s a quick rundown of some key aspects of ADW.Launcher Ex:

Feature Description
Customizable App Drawer Change how your apps are organized and displayed.
Customizable Dock Modify the appearance and functionality of the bottom dock.
Custom Icons & Themes Personalize the look of your icons and overall theme.
Gestures Control your phone with custom gestures.
Transition Effects Add visual flair when navigating between screens.

Features of ADW.Launcher Ex APK

ADW.Launcher Ex was a popular Android launcher back in the early days of the platform, offering a high degree of customization. While no longer actively developed or available on the official app stores, some users might still encounter it on older devices or through third-party APK archives. It offered a compelling alternative to the often limited default launchers of its time.

Customizable App Drawer

ADW.Launcher Ex gave you great control over your app drawer. You could adjust the size of the grid, change the icon size, and even add a background image. This allowed for a truly personalized experience, catering to individual preferences and aesthetics.

Desktop Customization

This is where ADW.Launcher Ex truly shined. It provided an extensive set of options to personalize your home screen. Let’s break down some of its key features:

Desktop Transitions

Tired of the standard slide animation when switching between home screen pages? ADW.Launcher Ex offered a variety of transitions, including cube, card stack, and flip effects, adding a bit of flair to everyday navigation.

Customizable Docks

The dock, the area at the bottom of the home screen where you typically keep your most used apps, was fully customizable. You could change its size, add more docks, and even adjust the icon size and appearance. This allowed for quick access to your favorite apps and provided another avenue for personalization.

Widgets and Shortcuts

ADW.Launcher Ex supported both Android widgets and shortcuts, allowing you to place interactive elements and quick links directly on your home screen. This feature enhanced productivity and provided at-a-glance information from your favorite apps.

Themes and Icon Packs

One of the most powerful features was the support for themes and icon packs. This allowed you to completely overhaul the look and feel of your home screen, from the icons to the app drawer and dock. You could download and apply pre-made themes or create your own custom look. This level of customization was a major draw for many users, enabling them to personalize their devices to an extent not possible with many other launchers.

Gestures

ADW.Launcher Ex supported a variety of gestures, allowing you to trigger actions with specific swipes or taps on the home screen. This feature provided quick access to common functions and streamlined navigation.

Backup and Restore

Recognizing the effort users invested in customizing their home screens, ADW.Launcher Ex included a backup and restore feature. This allowed users to save their settings and configurations, making it easy to transfer them to a new device or restore them after a factory reset. This was a crucial feature that saved users from having to redo their customizations from scratch.

Feature Description
Customizable App Drawer Adjust grid size, icon size, and background.
Desktop Transitions Choose from various animations like cube, card stack, and flip.
Customizable Docks Change size, add multiple docks, and adjust icons.
Themes and Icon Packs Completely transform your home screen’s appearance.
Widgets and Shortcuts Add interactive elements and quick links.
Gestures Trigger actions with screen swipes and taps.
Backup and Restore Save and load your custom configurations.

Compatibility

ADW.Launcher EX, a popular Android launcher back in the day, offered users a high degree of customization. It was designed primarily for devices running Android operating systems, but its compatibility spanned a fairly wide range of Android versions. While it was initially developed for older Android iterations (think Android 1.6 Donut up to 2.3 Gingerbread), later updates extended support to newer versions like Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean. However, it’s important to note that as Android continued to evolve, ADW.Launcher EX’s compatibility gradually became more fragmented. Some users reported occasional hiccups or functionality issues on later Android versions. This is often the case with older apps that haven’t received consistent updates to keep pace with the operating system’s advancements. It’s also worth mentioning that compatibility could be influenced by specific device manufacturers and their custom Android skins. So, while generally compatible with a wide range of Android versions, your mileage might have varied based on your specific device.

System Requirements

ADW.Launcher EX was generally quite lightweight, making it suitable for a broad range of devices, even those with more limited hardware. While specific minimum system requirements weren’t officially published by the developer, anecdotal evidence and user experiences suggest that it could run smoothly on devices with relatively modest specs. This made it a great option for users who wanted a feature-rich launcher without bogging down their system performance. For a smoother and more optimal experience, however, a slightly more powerful device was recommended.

Detailed System Requirements and Performance Considerations (Android Version, RAM, Storage, Processing Power)

Let’s dive a bit deeper into the system requirements that affected ADW.Launcher EX’s performance. The primary factor to consider is the Android version. As mentioned earlier, while it worked across several versions, optimal performance was generally observed on Android 2.1 (Eclair) to 4.1 (Jelly Bean). On older versions, some advanced features might not have been available, and on newer versions, compatibility issues might arise. RAM played a crucial role, and while the launcher could function with as little as 256MB of RAM (common in older devices), 512MB or more was recommended for a smoother experience, especially if you utilized many widgets or complex customizations. Storage space wasn’t a major concern, as the APK itself was relatively small, typically requiring only a few megabytes. Having enough free storage space was important, however, for storing custom themes, widgets, and other launcher data. Finally, the processing power of the device influenced overall responsiveness. While a single-core processor could suffice, a dual-core or better processor was desirable for optimal performance, especially when navigating through heavily customized home screens or applying complex animations.

Factor Minimum Recommended
Android Version 1.6 (Donut) 2.1 (Eclair) - 4.1 (Jelly Bean)
RAM 256 MB 512 MB+
Storage A few MB for APK Sufficient space for customizations
Processor Single-core Dual-core+

Performance Optimization Tips

Users could optimize ADW.Launcher EX’s performance by reducing the number of active widgets, using simpler themes, and disabling or toning down animations. Regularly clearing the launcher’s cache could also help to improve responsiveness.

How to Download and Install ADW.Launcher Ex APK

ADW.Launcher Ex was a popular Android launcher back in the early days of the platform, known for its extensive customization options. While it’s no longer officially supported or available on the Google Play Store, you can still find the APK file online. However, downloading APKs from third-party sources comes with inherent risks. It’s crucial to understand these risks before proceeding.

A Word of Caution about Third-Party APKs

Downloading apps from sources other than the official Google Play Store can expose your device to malware, spyware, and other security threats. Always ensure you’re downloading from a reputable source and understand that you are doing so at your own risk. Google Play Protect offers a degree of security even for apps installed from outside the Play Store, so ensure it’s enabled in your device’s settings.

Finding a Reliable Source

Locating a trustworthy source for the ADW.Launcher Ex APK can be a bit of a challenge. Many APK repositories exist, but not all are created equal. It’s vital to stick with well-known and community-vetted sites. Perform some online research; read reviews and forum discussions to identify sites with a good reputation and a history of providing safe and functional APKs. Look for sites that offer clear information about the APK version, upload date, and any potential risks. Be wary of sites that are riddled with ads or seem unprofessional. Prioritize sites that verify the integrity of their APKs with checksums or other validation methods. This helps ensure that the file you download hasn’t been tampered with.

Once you’ve identified a potential source, carefully examine the information they provide about the ADW.Launcher Ex APK. Look for details such as the version number, the last updated date, and the file size. Cross-reference this information with other sources to ensure consistency. Pay close attention to user comments or reviews. Are other users reporting successful installations and functionality? Are there any red flags regarding security or stability? Take your time and don’t rush the process. Remember, a little caution upfront can save you a lot of trouble down the line.

Keep in mind that even seemingly reputable sites can sometimes host compromised files. While researching, if you see warnings about a specific version or source, heed those warnings and look elsewhere. Consider using a virus scanner to scan the downloaded APK before installing it, even if it’s from a seemingly trusted source. This adds an extra layer of protection.

Downloading and Installing the APK

Once you’ve found a reliable source, the download process is usually straightforward. Most sites will provide a direct download link. Tap the link to begin the download. Your browser may ask for confirmation before downloading the file. Once the download is complete, locate the APK file in your device’s Downloads folder. You might need a file manager app to find it. Before installing, navigate to your device’s settings and enable “Install from Unknown Sources” or “Install Unknown Apps” (the exact wording may vary depending on your Android version). This setting allows you to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. After enabling this setting, tap the APK file to begin the installation process. You’ll see a screen outlining the permissions the app requires. Carefully review these permissions before proceeding. If everything looks okay, tap “Install”. The installation process should only take a few moments.

Post-Installation Steps

After installation, you can launch ADW.Launcher Ex like any other app. You’ll likely be prompted to select it as your default launcher. Experiment with its customization options to personalize your Android experience. However, remember to stay cautious. Monitor your device for any unusual behavior. If you encounter any problems or suspect something is amiss, uninstall the app immediately.

Step Action
1 Find a reliable APK source.
2 Download the ADW.Launcher Ex APK file.
3 Enable “Install from Unknown Sources” in your device’s settings.
4 Locate and tap the downloaded APK file to install it.
5 Launch ADW.Launcher Ex and configure it as your default launcher.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Performance Issues

While ADW.Launcher ex offered a high degree of customization, it wasn’t always the most lightweight launcher. On lower-end Android devices, users occasionally reported performance hiccups, such as laggy animations, slow app loading times, and general sluggishness. This could be exacerbated by applying numerous widgets, live wallpapers, or complex themes. Therefore, users with less powerful devices needed to consider the potential impact on performance before installing.

Battery Consumption

Linked to the potential performance drain, excessive customization and the use of resource-intensive features within ADW.Launcher ex could contribute to increased battery consumption. Live wallpapers, frequent updates from widgets, and complex animations can all put a strain on battery life. Users conscious of battery performance should carefully consider the balance between customization and power usage.

Compatibility Concerns

ADW.Launcher ex was primarily developed for older versions of Android. As the Android operating system evolved, compatibility issues sometimes arose with newer versions or specific device manufacturers’ custom Android builds. This could manifest as glitches, crashes, or certain features not functioning correctly. Users should research compatibility with their specific device and Android version before installation.

Security Risks (Outdated Software)

As ADW.Launcher ex is no longer actively maintained, it doesn’t receive regular security updates. This poses a potential security risk, as newly discovered vulnerabilities in older Android versions or the launcher itself may not be patched. Using outdated software increases the susceptibility to malware and other security threats. Therefore, users concerned about security should exercise caution and consider alternative, actively maintained launchers.

Lack of Support and Updates

Being discontinued, ADW.Launcher ex lacks official support and updates. Users experiencing issues or bugs will not receive assistance from the developers. Furthermore, new features and improvements are not being added. This means the launcher’s functionality will remain static and may become increasingly outdated over time.

Potential Conflicts with Other Apps

In some cases, ADW.Launcher ex could conflict with other installed apps, particularly those that also interact with the Android system UI. These conflicts could lead to unexpected behavior, app crashes, or system instability. Users should be mindful of potential conflicts and test the launcher thoroughly after installation.

Data Privacy Considerations (Permissions)

Like all launchers, ADW.Launcher ex requires certain permissions to function correctly. These permissions might include access to contacts, storage, and other sensitive data. While legitimate for core launcher functionality, users should carefully review the requested permissions and consider the privacy implications before granting access. Given the app’s outdated status, it’s important to be aware that older versions may not adhere to the latest privacy best practices. Here’s a table outlining some potential permissions and their implications:

Permission Implication
Read Contacts Allows the launcher to display contact information in widgets or integrate with communication features.
Write Storage Enables the launcher to save customized settings, themes, and downloaded widgets.
Access Network State Allows the launcher to check for internet connectivity for features like weather widgets or online theme downloads.
Read Phone State Potentially used for functions related to phone calls, although the specific use within ADWLauncher ex would need further investigation given its outdated status. This permission can raise privacy concerns, especially if the app is no longer actively maintained.

It’s crucial to remember that the specific permissions requested by ADW.Launcher ex might vary depending on the version and its features. Users should always carefully review and understand the permissions before installing any app, especially one that’s no longer supported with updates.

Comparing ADW.Launcher Ex with Other Launchers

ADW.Launcher Ex was a popular Android launcher back in the day, offering a high degree of customization and a unique look and feel. While it’s no longer actively developed, understanding its strengths and weaknesses compared to contemporary launchers can be insightful for appreciating the evolution of Android customization. This section compares ADW.Launcher Ex with other launchers, both past and present.

Customization

ADW.Launcher Ex was renowned for its deep customization options. Users could tweak nearly every aspect of the home screen, from icon sizes and labels to the app drawer layout and transition effects. This level of control was a major selling point, especially when compared to the more limited options offered by stock launchers at the time.

Flexibility vs. Simplicity

Modern launchers offer varying degrees of customization. Some, like Nova Launcher, continue the tradition of providing extensive options, catering to power users who enjoy fine-tuning every detail. Others, like the Pixel Launcher, prioritize simplicity and a clean aesthetic, offering fewer customization options but a more streamlined experience. ADW.Launcher Ex leaned heavily toward the former, offering a level of flexibility that could be both a blessing and a curse. While it empowered users to create highly personalized home screens, it could also be overwhelming for those looking for a simpler setup.

Performance

ADW.Launcher Ex was generally considered to perform well on the hardware of its time. However, the Android ecosystem and hardware capabilities have evolved significantly since then.

Then and Now

Modern launchers are often optimized for newer Android versions and more powerful devices. They tend to be smoother and more responsive, particularly when handling complex animations and transitions. Comparing ADW.Launcher Ex directly to current launchers in terms of performance is somewhat unfair given the hardware disparities. However, it’s worth noting that the focus on deep customization might have introduced some performance overhead compared to more streamlined alternatives, even back then.

Features

ADW.Launcher Ex offered a range of features that were considered advanced for its time, including custom gestures, scrollable docks, and transition effects.

Evolution of Features

Many of the features pioneered by ADW.Launcher Ex are now standard in modern launchers. Gesture controls, customizable docks, and a plethora of visual effects are commonplace. However, some features might be implemented differently. For instance, modern launchers often integrate with other system features like Google Assistant or provide advanced widget support. Let’s compare some key features in a table:

Feature ADW.Launcher Ex Modern Launchers (e.g., Nova, Action)
Custom Icons Yes Yes (Often with more extensive icon pack support)
Gestures Basic Advanced (More gesture types and customization)
Scrollable Docks Yes Yes (Often with more configuration options)
Transition Effects Variety Wider Variety (More advanced animations and 3D effects)
Integration with System Features Limited Extensive (Google Now integration, notification badges, etc.)

User Interface and Experience

ADW.Launcher Ex presented a user interface that was distinct from the stock Android launchers of its time. Its highly customizable nature allowed users to create unique home screen setups. However, this flexibility could sometimes lead to a cluttered or inconsistent experience if not carefully managed.

Aesthetics and Usability

Modern launchers often prioritize a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic, reflecting current design trends. They also tend to emphasize usability and intuitive navigation. While ADW.Launcher Ex allowed for extreme personalization, modern launchers often strike a balance between customization and a cohesive user experience. They might offer pre-built themes or design guidelines to ensure a visually appealing and functional result. The overall user experience with modern launchers has generally improved due to refined animations, smoother transitions, and better integration with the Android operating system. They leverage advancements in hardware and software to deliver a more polished and performant experience compared to what was possible with ADW.Launcher Ex on older hardware.

Is ADW.Launcher Ex Still Relevant Today?

ADW.Launcher Ex was a popular Android launcher back in the day, offering a level of customization that was pretty groundbreaking for its time. But the Android landscape has changed dramatically since then. So, the question remains: does this once-beloved launcher still hold up in the modern era?

What Was ADW.Launcher Ex?

ADW.Launcher Ex was essentially a souped-up version of the original ADW.Launcher. It offered more features and customization options, making it a favorite among Android enthusiasts who wanted to tweak every aspect of their home screens. Think custom icons, adjustable grid sizes, dock modifications, and a whole lot more.

The Rise and Fall of ADW.Launcher Ex

Back in the early days of Android, options for customizing your home screen were pretty limited. ADW.Launcher, and subsequently its Ex version, filled that gap, providing users with a powerful tool to personalize their Android experience. It gained a loyal following thanks to its flexibility and regular updates. However, as time went on, other launchers emerged, offering similar and often more polished features. The development of ADW.Launcher Ex eventually stalled, leaving it behind in the rapidly evolving world of Android.

Features That Made ADW.Launcher Ex Special

ADW.Launcher Ex was packed with features that made it stand out. Here’s a quick look at some of the key ones:

Feature Description
Customizable Grids Allowed users to change the number of app icons displayed on their home screens.
Custom Icons and Themes Offered support for icon packs and themes, allowing for deep visual customization.
Dock Modification Users could adjust the size and appearance of the dock.
Gestures Supported various gestures for quick access to apps and functions.
Transition Effects Provided a range of eye-catching transition effects between home screens.

The Android Landscape Then and Now

The Android ecosystem has dramatically changed since ADW.Launcher Ex was at its peak. Back then, Android was still relatively new, and customization options were limited. ADW.Launcher Ex filled a vital need. Today, however, Android offers a much richer and more polished user experience out of the box. Furthermore, numerous highly polished and regularly updated launchers are now available, offering a plethora of customization options.

The Current State of ADW.Launcher Ex

ADW.Launcher Ex is largely considered abandonware. It’s no longer actively maintained, meaning it doesn’t receive updates or security patches. This poses significant compatibility and security risks. You might be able to find old APKs online, but installing them is generally not recommended.

Alternatives to ADW.Launcher Ex

Fortunately, numerous excellent launchers offer similar and even more advanced features than ADW.Launcher Ex. Popular options include Nova Launcher, Action Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, and Lawnchair Launcher. These launchers are actively developed, ensuring compatibility with the latest Android versions and offering a constant stream of new features and improvements.

Is Nostalgia the Only Factor?

For some, the appeal of ADW.Launcher Ex might be purely nostalgic. It represents a bygone era of Android and holds a special place in the hearts of early adopters. However, relying on outdated software for nostalgia isn’t practical in the long run.

The Verdict on ADW.Launcher Ex in 2024 (and Beyond)

While ADW.Launcher Ex holds a special place in Android history, it’s simply not a viable option in the modern Android landscape. Its lack of updates, potential security risks, and the availability of superior alternatives make it difficult to recommend. While the nostalgia factor is understandable, it’s best to embrace the present and explore the many excellent launchers available today that offer similar functionality with the added benefits of active development, regular updates, and improved security. The spirit of customization that ADW.Launcher Ex pioneered lives on in these modern launchers, so you can still personalize your Android experience in exciting ways, but with the peace of mind that comes with using supported and secure software. Think of it as enjoying the same delicious cake, but with a fresh, new recipe!

A Point of View on ADW.Launcher EX APK

ADW.Launcher EX, a once-popular Android launcher, offered users a high degree of customization and control over their home screen experience. It provided features like custom grids, transitions, and widgets beyond the capabilities of standard Android launchers at the time. However, its development has ceased, rendering it effectively obsolete in the current Android landscape. While it might still function on older Android versions, its lack of updates poses potential compatibility and security risks. Modern launchers have since incorporated and surpassed many of its features, making it less compelling for contemporary users. Furthermore, downloading APKs from untrusted sources outside of the official Google Play Store carries inherent risks, including malware and privacy concerns. For these reasons, relying on ADW.Launcher EX in 2023 is generally not recommended.

People Also Ask About ADW.Launcher EX APK

Is ADW.Launcher EX still available?

While APK files for ADW.Launcher EX may still circulate online, it is no longer officially supported or available on the Google Play Store. The developer ceased active development some time ago.

Is ADW.Launcher EX safe?

Downloading and installing APKs from untrusted sources outside the official Google Play Store always carries security risks. ADW.Launcher EX itself was generally considered safe during its active development period, but the lack of updates leaves it potentially vulnerable to exploits and incompatible with newer Android security measures. Therefore, it’s not recommended to install it from unofficial sources.

What are the alternatives to ADW.Launcher EX?

Numerous modern Android launchers provide similar or even more advanced customization options compared to ADW.Launcher EX. Popular choices include Nova Launcher, Action Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, and Lawnchair Launcher, among others. These launchers are actively maintained, receive regular updates, and are available on the Google Play Store.

How do I uninstall ADW.Launcher EX?

If installed from the Google Play Store (unlikely given its unavailability):

You can typically uninstall it like any other app by going to your device’s settings, navigating to the Apps section, finding ADW.Launcher EX, and selecting “Uninstall.”

If installed from an APK:

The process might vary slightly depending on your Android version and device manufacturer. Generally, you’ll find the app in the Apps section of your settings and follow the same uninstall process as above. If you encounter difficulties, you may need to use a file manager to locate and delete the APK file itself.

Can I still use ADW.Launcher EX on my old Android device?

While it might technically function on older Android versions, compatibility issues may arise due to its lack of updates. Furthermore, using outdated software poses security risks. It’s recommended to explore modern launcher alternatives even on older devices, if possible.

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