Runway - Detailed Review

Video Tools

Runway - Detailed Review Contents
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    Runway - Product Overview



    Runway AI Overview

    Runway AI, also known as Runway ML, is a versatile and powerful AI-driven platform that revolutionizes the way individuals create and manipulate video and image content. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:

    Primary Function

    Runway AI is a multimodal system that enables users to generate, edit, and enhance videos and images using advanced machine learning algorithms. It allows users to transform text prompts, images, and video clips into high-quality multimedia assets with ease.

    Target Audience

    Runway AI is designed for a diverse range of creative professionals and individuals, including filmmakers, graphic designers, artists, YouTubers, TikTokers, marketing professionals, and educators. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced creators.

    Key Features



    Video and Image Generation

    • Text To Video: Generate videos from text prompts, allowing users to create videos based on simple descriptions.
    • Text To Image: Create unique images from written descriptions.
    • Image to Video: Animate still images or turn them into video clips.
    • Video To Video: Apply different video styles using text or images, such as vintage, retro, or futuristic looks.


    Editing and Special Effects

    • Erase Things From Videos: Remove people or objects from videos with a brush stroke.
    • Add Slow Motion: Convert low-frame rate footage into smooth slow-motion videos.
    • Remove Background: Use the Green Screen feature to remove or replace video backgrounds.
    • Animate Images: Generate smooth transitions between images using Frame Interpolation.


    Audio and Accessibility

    • Generate Video Subtitles: Enhance video accessibility by generating subtitles.
    • Eliminate Silences: Improve audio quality by removing silences.
    • Enhance Audio Quality: Overall improvement of audio to make videos more accessible.


    Customization and Advanced Tools

    • Train Custom AI Models: Develop personalized AI models for specific objectives.
    • 3D Capture and Texture: Manipulate and enhance videos to create 3D models and textures.
    • Mask and Render: Use masks to select specific parts of videos and add realistic textures and details.


    User Interface and Tools

    • Runway AI offers over 30 AI tools, including video generation, editing, special effects, and more.
    • The platform features a drag-and-drop interface, slide bars, toggle buttons, and drop-down menus for easy use and customization.
    Runway AI’s comprehensive suite of tools and intuitive interface make it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to create and enhance multimedia content with the help of AI.

    Runway - User Interface and Experience



    User Interface of Runway AI

    The user interface of Runway AI, particularly in its video tools, is crafted with a strong focus on user-friendliness and intuitive design.



    Interface Design

    Runway AI features a clean and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users of all skill levels to use its various tools. The dashboard is well-organized, displaying a range of features such as generative video, generative audio, text-to-image, lip sync video, and frame interpolation, among others. Users can easily access these tools via a navigation bar on the left side of the screen or by using a search bar to find specific features.



    Ease of Use

    The platform is designed to be accessible even for those new to AI video generation. It offers a drag-and-drop interface that simplifies the process of uploading images or videos, applying visual effects, and arranging elements within projects. This drag-and-drop functionality ensures a smooth generation process, allowing users to see the results in real-time through preview options.



    Key Features Access

    Runway AI organizes its tools in a way that makes it easy to find and use them. For example, the “All Tools” button on the navigation bar lists all the available tools, including text-to-video and other generators. Users can select specific models, such as the Gen-3 Alpha model, from a dropdown menu, and then enter prompts and upload images or videos to generate content.



    Real-Time Feedback and Customization

    The platform allows users to make changes to their projects in real time. Features like the motion brush tool provide fine-grained motion control, and the lip sync feature helps bring AI characters to life. Users can also extend clips, enhance videos with custom presets, and adjust camera motion and subject actions to customize their videos.



    Community and Support

    Runway AI benefits from a robust community support system, offering a wealth of resources and shared experiences. This includes live customer support via chat, email, and phone, as well as an active user community that helps users maximize the platform’s potential.



    Conclusion

    Overall, the user interface of Runway AI is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for both beginners and advanced users to generate, edit, and customize high-quality videos and images without needing extensive technical knowledge.

    Runway - Key Features and Functionality



    Runway AI Overview

    Runway AI is a versatile and powerful tool that leverages artificial intelligence to revolutionize video and image creation. Here are the main features of Runway AI in the video tools category, along with explanations of how each function works and its benefits:

    Text-to-Video Generation

    This feature allows users to create videos from simple text prompts. You describe the scene or scenario you want to visualize, and the AI generates a video based on your description. Users can adjust camera settings, such as camera motion and motion brush, to control the camera and subjects in the video. This tool simplifies video creation, eliminating the need for traditional storyboarding or filming techniques.

    Image-to-Video Generation

    Users can upload a static image and use AI to turn it into a captivating video. Alternatively, you can upload a custom image and describe the idea with a text prompt, allowing the AI to generate a video that incorporates the provided image and requested visuals.

    Video Editing Tools

    Runway AI offers a range of video editing tools that automate and enhance the editing process. These include features like background removal, object tracking, and the ability to erase unwanted objects or people from videos with a brush stroke. The Green Screen tool allows for removing or replacing video backgrounds, making it easy to focus on the main subjects.

    Audio Generation and Lip Sync

    The platform includes tools for generating audio and synchronizing lip movements with the audio. This feature is particularly useful for creating talking head videos or animated explainer videos, ensuring that the audio and video are perfectly aligned.

    Image Generation and Editing

    Runway AI also features text-to-image and image-to-image generation tools. Users can create images from detailed textual descriptions or transform existing images into new styles or compositions. For example, you can describe a vibrant sunset, and the AI will create a stunning image based on that prompt.

    Real-Time Collaboration and Project Management

    The platform offers real-time collaboration features, allowing teams to work together seamlessly on creative projects. The dashboard provides a clear overview of your projects and assets, making it easy to manage and access your work.

    Custom AI Models and Training

    Users can develop custom AI models for specific subjects or styles. This feature enables creators to train models that cater to their unique needs, whether for content generation or applying specific styles to their videos.

    Slow-Motion and Frame Interpolation

    Runway AI includes tools to add slow motion to videos and create smooth transitions between images. The Super Slow Motion tool generates new frames to convert low-frame rate footage into smooth slow-motion videos. The Frame Interpolation tool turns still photos into fluid videos by adjusting settings like frame rate and transition time.

    Automated Texture Creation

    The platform features an automated texture creation tool, enabling users to create unique 3D textures that can be imported into various modeling platforms. This is particularly useful for filmmakers and artists who need detailed textures for their projects.

    Export and Customization Options

    Runway AI provides extensive export options in high-quality formats, allowing users to download their videos locally or extend clips to make them longer. Users can also enhance their videos further using custom presets, prompt enhancers, and other tools.

    Conclusion

    These features integrate AI in a way that automates repetitive tasks, improves accuracy, enhances creativity, and offers cost savings by reducing the need for manual labor and expensive equipment. This makes high-quality video creation accessible to a wider audience, from solo creators to large enterprises.

    Runway - Performance and Accuracy



    Evaluating the Performance and Accuracy of Runway’s AI-Driven Video Tools



    Performance

    Runway’s video tools are praised for their speed and efficiency. The Gen 3 Alpha Turbo model, for instance, processes videos up to five times faster than previous models, allowing creators to generate high-fidelity content in just 3-5 minutes. This speed is particularly beneficial for quick iterations and experimentation, making it an invaluable tool for creative workflows. The platform also offers advanced control features such as the Multi-Motion Brush and Camera Control, which enable users to apply specific motion and direction to up to five subjects or areas of the scene. This level of control helps in achieving more expressive and intentional video generations.

    Accuracy and Quality

    Runway’s video quality is generally high, with detailed and vibrant outputs. The platform supports HD (720p) and QHD (2K) video for free and paid plan users, respectively, and even offers 4K video exports and full 3D texture options for paid subscribers. The videos generated are often realistic and blend well with real-world footage. However, there are some accuracy issues. Runway sometimes struggles with accurately portraying certain details in generated images and videos. For example, errors such as a cat with six paws or a distorted face can occur. Additionally, some generated images may not look as realistic as those produced by competitors, especially in landscape outputs.

    Limitations

    One of the significant limitations of Runway’s Gen-2 model is its low framerate and grainy visuals. It also struggles with physics, anatomy, and understanding nuanced prompts, which can lead to inconsistencies in the generated content. The training data set may lack diversity, contributing to these issues. Content moderation is another area of concern. Runway’s automated system can be overly restrictive, flagging even harmless requests. This can slow down the workflow and may result in temporary bans for users who inadvertently trigger these restrictions.

    Areas for Improvement

    To improve accuracy, Runway needs to enhance its handling of complex prompts and detailed anatomy. The platform could benefit from a more diverse training data set to reduce errors in generated content. Additionally, refining the content moderation system to avoid flagging harmless requests would help in maintaining a smoother workflow for users. This could involve more nuanced algorithms that better distinguish between legitimate and harmless content. In summary, Runway’s video tools offer impressive speed, control, and high-quality output, but they also face challenges in accuracy, particularly with detailed anatomy and nuanced prompts. Addressing these limitations will be crucial for further enhancing the platform’s performance and user experience.

    Runway - Pricing and Plans



    Runway AI Pricing Plans

    Runway AI offers a range of pricing plans to cater to different user needs, from individuals to large enterprises. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each plan:



    Basic Plan

    • Cost: Free
    • Key Features:
      • 125 one-time credits (equivalent to 25 seconds of Gen-2 or 25 image generations)
      • Limited to 3 video projects
      • 5GB of asset storage
      • Video editor exports in 720p with watermarks
      • Limited image export options

    This plan is ideal for beginners or those who want to experiment with AI tools without any financial commitment.



    Standard Plan

    • Cost: $12 per user per month (billed annually at $144) or $15 per user per month (billed monthly)
    • Key Features:
      • 625 credits per month (equivalent to 125 seconds of Gen-2 or 125 image generations)
      • Unlimited video editor projects
      • 100GB of asset storage
      • Video editor exports in 4K, with the ability to remove watermarks and upscale resolution
      • Train one custom AI generator
      • 2K image exports and full 3D texture options

    This plan is suitable for individuals and small teams who need more access to AI tools and better export options.



    Pro Plan

    • Cost: $28 per user per month (billed annually at $336) or $35 per user per month (billed monthly)
    • Key Features:
      • 2250 credits per month (equivalent to 450 seconds of Gen-2 or 450 image generations)
      • Unlimited video editor projects
      • 500GB of asset storage
      • All video editor exports from the Standard Plan, plus additional file formats like PNG and ProRes
      • Train one custom AI generator
      • Create custom voices for Lip Sync and Text-to-Speech
      • Advanced image export options

    This plan is designed for more serious creators and teams who require extensive AI tool usage and higher storage capacity.



    Unlimited Plan

    • Cost: $95 per user per month (billed annually at $912)
    • Key Features:
      • Unlimited generations in Explore Mode (with rate restrictions) and 2250 credits per month in Credits Mode
      • All features of the Pro Plan, with no limitations on video generations
      • Extensive access to all AI tools and features

    This plan is best suited for power users or teams with high-volume content creation needs.



    Enterprise Plan

    • Cost: Custom pricing (contact sales for details)
    • Key Features:
      • Custom credit amounts, storage, and model customizations
      • Priority support, single sign-on, advanced security, and compliance features

    This plan is tailored for businesses that need custom solutions and support.

    Each plan is designed to meet the specific needs of different users, from beginners to large enterprises, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable option to enhance their creative workflows.

    Runway - Integration and Compatibility



    Runway ML Overview

    Runway ML, an advanced AI-driven platform for video and image creation, offers extensive integration and compatibility features that make it a versatile tool for various creative and professional needs.

    Integration with Other Tools

    Runway ML seamlessly integrates with a wide range of design, video editing, and content creation tools. This includes popular software such as Adobe Creative Suite and Final Cut Pro, allowing users to enhance their workflows by leveraging the AI capabilities of Runway ML within their familiar environments.

    API Access

    The platform provides API integration, which enables developers to incorporate Runway ML’s AI features into custom workflows and applications. This flexibility is particularly useful for automating specific tasks and integrating Runway ML with other tools and systems.

    Cloud-Based Workflow

    Runway ML operates on a cloud-based platform, which facilitates easy access and collaboration across different devices and platforms without the need for local installations. This cloud-based workflow ensures that users can work efficiently from anywhere, using any device with an internet connection.

    Cross-Platform Support

    The platform is compatible with both macOS and Windows, providing flexibility for users regardless of their operating system preference. This cross-platform support ensures that Runway ML can be used in various environments, making it accessible to a broad range of users.

    Workflow Automation

    Runway ML automates various aspects of the video production process, including text-to-video generation, image-to-video conversion, and special effects application. This automation improves efficiency and saves time, allowing users to focus more on the creative aspects of their projects.

    Integration with Make

    Additionally, Runway ML can be integrated with workflow automation platforms like Make, allowing users to create custom workflows by connecting Runway with over 2000 other apps. This integration enables the automation of tasks and the synchronization of data between different applications.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Runway ML’s integration capabilities and compatibility across different platforms and devices make it a highly versatile and efficient tool for creative professionals and content creators.

    Runway - Customer Support and Resources



    Customer Support



    Help Center

    For any product-related questions, support inquiries, or subscription and payment issues, users are directed to the Help Center. This resource provides comprehensive guides and troubleshooting tips to address common queries.



    Contacting Support

    If the Help Center does not resolve the issue, users can contact the support team directly via email at the provided support addresses. This ensures timely assistance, usually within 24 hours.



    Additional Resources



    Runway Academy

    Runway Academy is a valuable resource that offers tutorials and guides on how to use Runway’s tools effectively. For example, the tutorial on “Text to Video and Image to Video” provides step-by-step instructions on creating videos from text prompts or animating images, including tips on adjusting motion values, using the motion brush, and customizing video settings.



    Quick Start Guide and Step-by-Step Guides

    Quick Start Guide and Step-by-Step Guides are available to help users get started with Runway. They cover choosing the right model, describing the video scenario, enhancing prompts, selecting styles, and customizing video settings. These guides are particularly useful for creating specific types of videos, such as campaign videos or cinematic clips.



    User Interface and Tools

    User Interface and Tools: Runway’s interface is user-friendly and intuitive, making it accessible for both beginners and professionals. The tools include advanced features like motion brush, camera motion controls, and director mode, which allow for precise control over video generation and animation.



    Community and Feedback

    Users can also engage with the Runway community through social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Discord. These channels provide additional support, updates, and community feedback.

    By leveraging these resources, users can effectively utilize Runway’s video tools and overcome any challenges they might encounter during the video creation process.

    Runway - Pros and Cons



    Pros of Runway AI

    Runway AI offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool for creators and professionals in the video and image generation field.

    User-Friendly Interface

    Runway AI is known for its intuitive design, making it easy to use and learn, even for users of all skill levels.

    Wide Range of Tools

    The platform provides a variety of AI-powered tools, including video editing, image generation, text-to-video conversion, and text-to-image conversion. It also includes features like background removal, object tracking, and AI-powered animation.

    Real-Time Collaboration

    Runway AI allows for seamless real-time collaboration, which is beneficial for teams working on creative projects together.

    High-Quality Output

    The platform generates high-quality videos and images, with options to export in HD, QHD, and even 4K for paid plan subscribers. It also offers detailed and vibrant video effects that can be blended with real-world footage.

    Project Templates and Customization

    Runway AI provides pre-designed templates for quick content creation and extensive customization settings, including advanced settings for fine-tuning the output.

    Multi-Device Support

    The platform is available on both desktop and mobile devices, although the mobile app is currently only available on iOS.

    Cons of Runway AI

    Despite its many advantages, Runway AI also has some notable drawbacks.

    Premium Tools Accessibility

    Premium tools and features are only available in higher-tier plans, which can be a limitation for users on the free or basic plans.

    Internet Dependency

    The platform requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance, as it relies on cloud-based processing.

    Image Generation Quality

    While Runway AI generates vibrant and colorful images, the quality sometimes does not match that of its competitors, especially in terms of realism and detail accuracy.

    Steep Learning Curve

    Some of the advanced tools, such as the text-to-video and image-to-video generators, can be confusing and difficult to use, particularly for beginners. Prompt engineering is often necessary to get the desired results.

    Limited Offline Access

    The platform does not offer offline access, which can be a limitation for users who need to work without an internet connection. Overall, Runway AI is a versatile and powerful tool for video and image generation, but it comes with some limitations that users should be aware of.

    Runway - Comparison with Competitors



    Runway AI vs InVideo



    Customization and Advanced Features

  • Runway AI: Renowned for its advanced AI-powered video generation and deep customization options, making it ideal for professional-grade video projects. It offers tools like text-to-video, image-to-video, lip sync, and extensive editing capabilities, including background removal and object tracking.


  • Ease of Use

  • InVideo: Focuses on ease of use and accessibility, providing a vast library of video templates and an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. This makes InVideo perfect for quick video production and users who prioritize speed and efficiency over advanced customization.


  • User Base

  • Runway AI: Better suited for professional videographers, content creators, and artists who need high-end technology for complex projects. InVideo is more suitable for digital marketing professionals, small business owners, and social media managers who need to produce quality videos quickly.


  • Runway AI vs Luma AI



    Feature Set

  • Runway AI: Boasts an extensive feature set that includes text-to-image, lip sync, background removal, and various image manipulation tools. Luma AI, on the other hand, is more straightforward with its text-to-video and image-to-video capabilities, lacking the additional features offered by Runway.


  • Performance and Speed

  • Runway AI: Excels in speed and performance, with faster generation times and better user notifications. Luma AI can have longer wait times and less feedback on progress.


  • Output Quality

  • Luma AI: Can upscale videos to 4K, but Runway AI offers high-definition output and more comprehensive editing tools to enhance video quality.


  • Pricing and Value

  • Runway AI: Provides more features for the cost, making it a better investment for creators who need a variety of tools. Luma AI is more cost-effective for straightforward video generation but lacks the extensive feature set of Runway.


  • Unique Features of Runway AI



    Text-to-Video and Image-to-Video Generation

  • Runway AI allows users to generate videos from text prompts or images, offering significant control over camera motion, subjects, and styles.


  • Real-Time Collaboration

  • Runway AI supports real-time collaboration, enabling teams to work together seamlessly on creative projects.


  • AI-Powered Editing Tools

  • The platform includes advanced AI-powered editing tools such as background removal, object tracking, and scene detection, which enhance the efficiency and quality of video production.


  • Custom Audio Generation

  • Runway AI offers text-to-speech capabilities, custom voice models, and lip sync features, allowing users to create soundscapes and music that complement their visuals.


  • Potential Alternatives



    InVideo

  • For users who prioritize ease of use and quick video production, InVideo is a strong alternative. It offers a user-friendly interface and a vast library of customizable templates.


  • Luma AI

  • If you need a more straightforward and cost-effective solution for basic video generation, Luma AI could be a viable option. However, it lacks the advanced features and customization options available in Runway AI.
  • In summary, Runway AI stands out for its advanced AI-powered features, high customization options, and comprehensive toolset, making it ideal for professional and complex video projects. However, for users seeking ease of use and quick production, alternatives like InVideo and Luma AI may be more suitable.

    Runway - Frequently Asked Questions



    Frequently Asked Questions about Runway AI



    What is Runway AI and what does it do?

    Runway AI is a platform that combines machine learning algorithms with art and design to generate, edit, and transform videos and images. It offers a range of tools, including video generation, image generation, audio generation, and editing tools, making it accessible for users of all skill levels to create high-quality multimedia assets.

    How does the video generation feature work in Runway AI?

    The video generation feature in Runway AI allows users to create videos using text prompts or images. You can describe a scenario through text or upload an image and add a prompt to produce the desired video. Users can adjust camera motion, use motion brushes, and enhance the video with custom presets, prompt enhancers, and lip sync. This feature eliminates the need for traditional storyboarding or filming techniques.

    What are the key features of Runway AI’s image generation tools?

    Runway AI’s image generation tools enable users to create images from detailed textual descriptions using the text-to-image feature or transform existing images into different outputs using the image-to-image feature. Users can upload a reference image, enter a text prompt, and adjust parameters to customize the output. The platform also allows for expanding images, removing and replacing objects, and infinitely remixing image styles.

    How does the audio generation feature work in Runway AI?

    The audio generation feature in Runway AI includes capabilities for text-to-speech, custom voice models, and lip sync. Users can create soundscapes, generate music, and choose from preset voices in 14 languages. The platform allows you to type a script, select a voice, and hear a sample before generating the audio. It also supports synchronizing scripts or uploaded audio to animate photos or videos.

    What editing tools and special effects are available in Runway AI?

    Runway AI offers a suite of editing tools and special effects, including background removal, object tracking, and the ability to combine AI-generated elements with captured footage. Users can trim, manipulate, and enhance videos and images, and the platform supports real-time collaboration and project templates.

    Can I customize AI models in Runway AI?

    Yes, Runway AI allows users to train their own AI models on specific subjects and styles, ensuring personalized and unique content creation. This feature enables users to generate content that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

    How user-friendly is the interface of Runway AI?

    Runway AI is designed with an intuitive and clean interface that makes it easy for users of all skill levels to navigate. The platform features a drag-and-drop interface, real-time preview options, and helpful guiding pop-ups. Users can easily access various features through the main dashboard or by using the search bar.

    What are the use cases for Runway AI?

    Runway AI is useful for various professionals, including content creators, marketers, filmmakers, educators, and small business owners. It can be used for producing visuals and videos for social media and marketing campaigns, improving video production with advanced editing and AI effects, creating engaging visual content for presentations, and crafting professional-grade visuals for branding.

    Does Runway AI support real-time collaboration?

    Yes, Runway AI offers real-time collaboration features, allowing teams to work together seamlessly on creative projects. This feature is particularly useful for collaborative workflows in video and image production.

    How do I prompt effectively within Runway AI?

    When prompting within Runway AI, it is important to note that each prompt applies to one visual item at a time. Users can use technical film terms to achieve specific results, but negative prompts are not currently supported for video generation. For detailed examples and best practices, users can refer to the official Runway AI documentation.

    What are the costs associated with using Runway AI?

    Runway AI offers various pricing plans that include different levels of features and support. The cost can vary based on the specific needs of the user, such as the requirement for premium tools, customization, and enterprise-level support. Additional costs may include integration with external APIs, customization to meet dynamic business requirements, and post-launch support and maintenance.

    Runway - Conclusion and Recommendation



    Final Assessment of Runway in the Video Tools AI-Driven Product Category

    Runway ML stands out as a versatile and powerful AI-driven platform for video and multimedia content creation. Here’s a comprehensive look at its features, benefits, and who would most benefit from using it.

    Key Features

    • Video Generation: Runway allows users to create videos from text prompts or images, with tools like text-to-video and image-to-video generation. Users can adjust camera motion, use motion brushes, and enhance videos with custom presets and lip sync.
    • Image Generation: The platform offers text-to-image and image-to-image generation, enabling users to create or transform images based on detailed textual descriptions.
    • AI Video Editing: Runway provides tools for background removal, object tracking, and other advanced editing features. It also supports real-time collaboration and project templates.
    • Audio Generation: Users can generate audio content to complement their videos, adding another layer of creativity to their projects.
    • Ease of Use: The platform is known for its intuitive design and helpful guiding pop-ups, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.


    Who Would Benefit Most

    • Content Creators: Social media influencers, YouTubers, and content creators can produce high-quality visuals and videos quickly, which is ideal for their fast-paced content schedules.
    • Marketers: Marketing professionals can create customized video clips for different audience segments and digital platforms, allowing for highly targeted and effective campaigns.
    • Filmmakers: Filmmakers can improve video production with advanced editing tools and AI effects, streamlining their creative process.
    • Educators: Educators can create engaging visual content for presentations and courses, enhancing the learning experience.
    • Small Business Owners: Small businesses can craft professional-grade visuals to boost their branding without needing extensive technical expertise.


    Overall Recommendation

    Runway ML is highly recommended for anyone looking to generate, edit, and customize high-quality multimedia assets efficiently. Its user-friendly interface, extensive range of AI tools, and real-time collaboration features make it an invaluable resource for both beginners and professionals.

    Considerations

    While Runway offers a free tier that allows users to explore its tools, premium features are available only in higher-tier plans. Additionally, the platform requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance. In summary, Runway ML is a powerful and accessible tool that democratizes AI-driven video and multimedia content creation, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of users across various industries.

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