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The top 10 FOSS apps to make your Linux experience more enjoyable in 2026 are Firefox, KDE Connect, VLC, LibreOffice, Thunderbird, Syncthing, OBS Studio, GIMP, Kdenlive and KeePassXC. You do not need all ten: choose the applications that solve your browsing, phone, media, office, synchronization, creative or security needs.
FOSS means free and open-source software. In general, FOSS licenses give users permission to study, modify and redistribute source code, subject to each project’s specific license. “Free download” does not automatically mean FOSS, and open source does not automatically guarantee privacy, security or active maintenance.
This desktop-focused list favors practical improvements over popularity. The recommendations cover common Linux friction points, including phone integration, difficult media files, local-first productivity, device synchronization, recording, editing and password management. KDE applications may integrate most naturally with Plasma, while GTK applications may feel more native on GNOME, Cinnamon or Xfce. Behavior can also vary between distributions, Wayland and X11, GPU drivers and package formats.
Key takeaways
- Firefox is the strongest general-purpose choice here for users who want an open-source browser with built-in privacy controls and a non-Chromium browser engine.
- KDE Connect links a Linux computer and Android phone, while LocalSend is the simpler choice when nearby file transfer is the only requirement.
- Syncthing synchronizes files directly between devices but is not a backup unless you also use versioning and a separate backup strategy.
- LibreOffice, Thunderbird, OBS Studio, GIMP and Kdenlive cover office, email, recording, image-editing and video-editing workflows without requiring a subscription.
- KeePassXC provides a local encrypted password vault, but local control also makes the user responsible for backups and recovery.
Which FOSS apps should you install first?
The best first installation depends on the problem you want to solve. The table below is a quick decision guide rather than a claim that every Linux user needs every application.
#1 Best Overall
- Full HD Portable Monitor - MNN 15.6inch portable laptop monitor with 1920*1080 resolution, advanced IPS glossy screen support 178° full viewing angle, it renders accurate and bright color, draws you into the video or game with lifelike colors and amazing detail.It can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flickering, eye-care, and make it easier to watch for a long time.A second monitor for working from home.
- Double Type-C Port -For Plug & Play, the MNN monitor provides 2 Full Feature Type-C ports. Only One USB Type-C Cable is required to connect to the power supply & display signal transmission. NOTE: Your device should support thunderbolt 3.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE.which supports multiple connect ways to your laptops, PC, Phones, Macbooks, PS5/PS4, Xbox, and Switch.
- Lightweight Ultra Slim for Travel - As a portable external monitor,MNN portable laptop monitor easily accommodate to every suitcase and backpack and stress-free when you are holding it for a long time. They are truly portable computer monitors for travelers, students, gamers,engineers, and everyone.
- Give consideration to work and games - through multiple display modes [Copy Mode/Extended Mode/Second Screen Mode/Portrait Mode], we can bring you a clear second screen in the meeting, and expand the screen anytime and anywhere to improve work efficiency and improve the quality of life. Adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights,deeper and more realistic colors, more realistic images, and amazing viewing/gaming experience.
- Powerful Smart Cover - MNN portable external monitor can work in both landscape and portrait mode, can be used as a gaming monitor, screen extender for laptop or phone. Comes with a scratch-proof smart cover made of durable PU leather exterior, doubles as a stand, provides comprehensive protection for this portable computer monitor.
| App | Best for | Why install it | Main caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firefox | Web browsing | Privacy controls, extensions and an alternative to Chromium | Some sites prioritize Chromium compatibility |
| KDE Connect | Phone integration | Notifications, files, messaging and remote controls | Requires pairing and local-network access |
| VLC | Media playback | Broad audio and video format support | Less integrated than some native players |
| LibreOffice | Office work | Complete offline suite for documents, spreadsheets and presentations | Complex Microsoft Office files may change layout |
| Thunderbird | Email and calendars | Local, multi-account desktop workflow | Provider authentication and profile backups need attention |
| Syncthing | File synchronization | Direct device-to-device synchronization | Synchronization is not the same as backup |
| OBS Studio | Recording and streaming | Scenes, cameras, microphones, displays and broadcasts | More complicated than a basic screen recorder |
| GIMP | Raster image editing | Layers, selections, masks, filters and compositing | Learning curve and a less Photoshop-like workflow |
| Kdenlive | Video editing | Multi-track timeline editing and effects | Needs careful media management and capable hardware |
| KeePassXC | Password management | Local encrypted database and browser integration | You must manage synchronization, backups and recovery |
1. Firefox: the best general-purpose FOSS browser
Firefox is best for Linux users who want a mainstream browser with privacy controls, Linux support and an independent alternative to Chromium-based browsers. Mozilla’s official desktop browser page highlights tracker blocking, private browsing and Linux downloads.
Firefox includes a large extension ecosystem and is also available on Windows, macOS and mobile platforms. Firefox can be used without an account; Firefox Sync requires a Mozilla account. Firefox is not a guarantee of perfect privacy, because settings, extensions and connected online services still matter.
Some websites are tested primarily against Chromium, so occasional compatibility problems are possible. Privacy settings can also break site functionality. Start with the default protection level, then increase protection gradually. If a site fails, select the shield icon in the address bar and temporarily adjust protection for that site rather than weakening every site.
Choose another browser when: Chromium or ungoogled-chromium may be preferable for a web application with Chromium-specific compatibility requirements. Falkon suits users who want a lightweight Qt/KDE-oriented browser, while GNOME Web offers a simpler GNOME-integrated experience.
2. KDE Connect: make an Android phone part of your Linux desktop
KDE Connect is best for linking a Linux computer with an Android phone. The KDE Connect project describes an open-source, free tool that can share files and links, mirror notifications, support desktop replies to text messages, control music, act as a presentation remote or trackpad, trigger commands and ring a misplaced phone.
Install the desktop component and the mobile app, place both devices on a network where they can reach one another, and approve the pairing request on both devices. KDE Connect also works outside KDE Plasma, although desktop integration can differ.
If devices do not appear: check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and not separated by a guest network or router client isolation. A VPN or firewall can block discovery. Test firewall configuration only for diagnosis, then add the appropriate KDE Connect rules instead of leaving the firewall disabled. Check Android battery-optimization and notification permissions, and unpair and pair again if old permissions or device keys are stale.
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Choose LocalSend instead when: you only need nearby file transfer. LocalSend is simpler than KDE Connect for that narrower task and does not attempt to provide phone notifications or remote-control features.
3. VLC: a dependable fallback for local media
VLC is best for playing local audio and video files that a desktop environment’s default player cannot open. VLC supports a broad range of media formats and also provides subtitle controls, playback-speed adjustment, streaming and conversion features.
“Plays everything” is too broad a claim. Actual playback depends on the container, codec, hardware acceleration, DRM, licensing restrictions and the VLC build supplied by the distribution. Hardware acceleration can behave differently according to the GPU and driver.
VLC’s interface is feature-rich but may feel less integrated than a native GNOME, KDE or Xfce player. MPV is a better alternative for a minimalist, keyboard-driven workflow; Haruna provides a Qt/KDE-oriented interface, Celluloid provides a GTK front end to MPV, and Kodi is designed for a living-room media center.
The Tool Desk
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- CRISP CLARITY: This 23.8″ Philips V line monitor delivers crisp Full HD 1920x1080 visuals. Enjoy movies, shows and videos with remarkable detail
- INCREDIBLE CONTRAST: The VA panel produces brighter whites and deeper blacks. You get true-to-life images and more gradients with 16.7 million colors
- THE PERFECT VIEW: The 178/178 degree extra wide viewing angle prevents the shifting of colors when viewed from an offset angle, so you always get consistent colors
- WORK SEAMLESSLY: This sleek monitor is virtually bezel-free on three sides, so the screen looks even bigger for the viewer. This minimalistic design also allows for seamless multi-monitor setups that enhance your workflow and boost productivity
- A BETTER READING EXPERIENCE: For busy office workers, EasyRead mode provides a more paper-like experience for when viewing lengthy documents
For current downloads and platform-specific packaging, use the official VideoLAN VLC page. Check that page before publishing a version number or a distribution-specific command.
4. LibreOffice: a complete local office suite
LibreOffice is best for documents, spreadsheets, presentations, diagrams, databases and formulas. The LibreOffice project provides Writer, Calc, Impress, Draw, Base and Math as an open-source office suite available at no cost.
LibreOffice works offline, supports OpenDocument formats and opens many Microsoft Office files. Use ODT, ODS and ODP when recipients support OpenDocument. Export to PDF when visual layout must remain stable. For a Microsoft Office workflow, save a copy in the requested format and reopen that copy before sending it.
Compatibility is not perfect. Complex page layouts, fonts, macros and spreadsheet formulas can change between LibreOffice and Microsoft Office. Install the required fonts when layout matters, and test important documents in the application used by the recipient.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Choose another tool when: ONLYOFFICE may suit users who prioritize a Microsoft Office-style interface and compatibility. Calligra is a KDE-oriented alternative. Google Docs and Microsoft 365 can be stronger for simultaneous browser collaboration, but they are not FOSS desktop alternatives. Organizations needing migration, training or deployment assistance can review The Document Foundation’s professional support options.
5. Thunderbird: local email, calendars and contacts
Thunderbird is best for managing multiple email accounts, calendars and contacts from a Linux desktop application. The official Thunderbird site provides Linux downloads and describes unified inbox, account-management and customization features.
Thunderbird keeps a local desktop copy of synchronized mail, but the email provider still controls the server-side account and retention policies. IMAP synchronization is not a backup. Keep an independent backup of the Thunderbird profile, especially before migrating or changing account settings.
Setup may require the provider’s correct IMAP or POP settings, SMTP settings for sending, and OAuth or an app password. Calendar and contact synchronization may require CalDAV or CardDAV support or an add-on. Prefer IMAP unless you understand the consequences of POP, use the provider’s official OAuth flow when available, and test sending and receiving before moving fully to Thunderbird.
Add-ons can lag behind new Thunderbird releases. KMail offers deeper KDE integration, Geary provides a simpler email-focused interface, and Evolution suits GNOME-oriented email, calendar and contact management.
6. Syncthing: synchronize files without a central cloud provider
Syncthing is best for synchronizing folders directly between your own devices. The project’s official downloads page lists Linux distribution options, while also warning readers through its packaging guidance that distribution packages may not always be current.
Syncthing can keep documents, photos and project files available across Linux, Windows, macOS and other supported platforms while giving you control over where the files reside. Syncthing is not a backup by itself: a deletion, corruption or ransomware-encrypted file can synchronize the damaged state to other devices.
Rank #3
- [Portable Monitor Laptop] InnoView laptop screen extender is no need of app and drivers! 15.6 in is a more suitable size for traveling or remote work. Suitable for traveler, student, gamer, engineer, and white-collar worker to connect HP laptop, Lenovo laptop, Dell laptop, Asus laptop, Macbook, iPhone, game console, tablet, PS, Xbox, etc. The laptop screen can expand the viewing area and be more efficient when playing games, working, meeting and studying
- [Plug and Play] The travel monitor for laptop provides 2 full-function Type-C ports and 1 HDMI port to connect most devices. Only one USB-C cable is needed to connect the external display to computer, and it supports power pass-through reverse charging. Note: Your device should support Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type-C DP ALT-MODE. If not, you can connect via HDMI and power cable(NOT INCLUDE IN THE PACKAGE)
- [IPS FHD USB C Monitor] 15.6 inch portable screen with a resolution of 1920*1080P, made of A+ IPS screen, supports 178° full viewing angle, can present accurate and vivid colors. Combined with HDR, images and videos present realistic colors and amazing details. Low blue light can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flicker, eye protection, making it easier for you to work and perform multiple tasks at the same time
- [Versatile Cover and Stand] Equipped with a scratch-resistant smart protective cover made of durable PU leather, it can also be used as a stand when working. Two grooves are used to adjust the angle and fix the external monitor. It can also provide all-round protection for the 1080p monitor when going out or traveling, suitable for putting in a backpack to avoid squeezing. Optional landscape and portrait modes, save more desktop space
- [Worry-free Purchase] Since the output power of each device is different, the screen may flicker or restart. You can power the laptop monitor to solve it. Provide a 30-day return policy and 18-month warranty (excluding external force damage). If you have any concerns, please let us know (displayed on the back of the monitor)
Use file versioning where appropriate and keep at least one separate backup that is not continuously synchronized. Avoid temporary files, caches and databases that are unsafe to copy while open. Restrict shared folders, confirm device identities, avoid exposing the management interface directly to the public internet and resolve conflicts caused by independently edited copies.
If synchronization fails: check whether a device is offline, the folder path and permissions are correct, devices are authorized, and firewall rules permit discovery and transfer. Very large file trees can increase indexing and performance overhead.
LocalSend is better for one-off transfers. Nextcloud is better for browser access, sharing links, calendars, contacts and a cloud-style workflow. A managed cloud provider is better when off-site storage and recovery are more important than direct device control.
7. OBS Studio: record, stream and build production scenes
OBS Studio is best for screen recording, livestreaming, webcam capture, tutorials, gameplay and multi-source production. The official OBS Studio project site provides current downloads and release information.
OBS can combine displays, windows, games, webcams, microphones, desktop audio and overlays into scenes. OBS Studio is powerful, but audio routing and capture setup are more involved than with a basic screen recorder. Performance depends on the GPU encoder, capture method, scene complexity and network bandwidth.
Recommended Free Tools
Run the automatic configuration wizard, choose recording or streaming as the primary workload, add a display or window capture source, add microphone and desktop-audio sources, and record a short test. Check the resulting file before a long recording or livestream. Configure hotkeys for starting, stopping, pausing and changing scenes.
Black capture windows, missing microphone signals, echo, dropped frames, wrong resolution and full disks are common failures. Echo often comes from capturing the same audio twice. Wayland desktop capture depends on the compositor and portal implementation, so behavior can differ from X11.
Kooha, SimpleScreenRecorder and Green Recorder are easier choices for basic recording. PipeWire-native desktop recording tools may also be appropriate where the desktop provides them.
8. GIMP: a mature FOSS raster editor
GIMP is best for raster image editing, photo correction, screenshots, compositing, web graphics and layer-based manipulation. The official GIMP project provides the application and documentation.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →GIMP includes layers, selections, masks, filters, extensions and scripting. GIMP is a useful replacement for many basic-to-intermediate Photoshop workflows, but GIMP is not the best tool for every visual task. The interface and terminology differ from Photoshop, and professional color-management, layout or non-destructive workflows may require other applications.
Use Krita for digital painting and illustration, Inkscape for vector graphics, darktable or RawTherapee for raw photography, and digiKam for photo cataloging. Large images can consume substantial memory, so save work frequently and keep source files separate from exported copies.
Rank #4
- CRISP CLARITY: This 22 inch class (21.5″ viewable) Philips V line monitor delivers crisp Full HD 1920x1080 visuals. Enjoy movies, shows and videos with remarkable detail
- 100HZ FAST REFRESH RATE: 100Hz brings your favorite movies and video games to life. Stream, binge, and play effortlessly
- SMOOTH ACTION WITH ADAPTIVE-SYNC: Adaptive-Sync technology ensures fluid action sequences and rapid response time. Every frame will be rendered smoothly with crystal clarity and without stutter
- INCREDIBLE CONTRAST: The VA panel produces brighter whites and deeper blacks. You get true-to-life images and more gradients with 16.7 million colors
- THE PERFECT VIEW: The 178/178 degree extra wide viewing angle prevents the shifting of colors when viewed from an offset angle, so you always get consistent colors
9. Kdenlive: edit recorded video on Linux
Kdenlive is best for non-linear video editing, including tutorials, YouTube videos, short films and family videos. The official Kdenlive project provides current project information and downloads.
Kdenlive offers a multi-track timeline with titles, transitions and effects, making it a natural companion to OBS Studio: OBS captures footage and Kdenlive edits it. Video editing is resource-intensive, and codec, format and hardware-acceleration behavior depends on the system.
Create a project with a suitable profile, import media and generate proxy clips if high-resolution footage makes preview playback choppy. Keep project files separate from source footage, render a short test before a long export, and archive the project file, source media and custom assets together.
Missing media, audio/video sync problems, unsupported codecs and insufficient disk space can cause failures. Shotcut may offer a simpler learning curve, OpenShot suits basic editing, and Blender is stronger for advanced compositing, 3D and animation. DaVinci Resolve may suit users who prioritize professional workflows over FOSS licensing.
10. KeePassXC: keep an encrypted password vault locally
KeePassXC is best for users who want an encrypted local password database instead of a hosted password-management account. The official KeePassXC project provides the desktop application, browser integration and password-generation tools.
KeePassXC protects the database with a master password and can use additional key material. Local control reduces dependence on a hosted service, but it also makes recovery your responsibility. If the database is lost, the master password is forgotten or synchronization is misconfigured, recovery may be impossible.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsUse a long, memorable master passphrase, store the database in a backed-up location, keep multiple backups including one offline or otherwise protected from ransomware, and test restoration before relying on the vault. Be cautious with browser integration and confirm that the correct database is unlocked.
KeePassXC emphasizes local ownership. Bitwarden is a better fit when managed multi-device synchronization and hosted convenience matter more; a self-hosted Vaultwarden server is an option for technically capable users who accept the administration burden.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How should Linux users install these FOSS applications?
The safest installation route depends on the distribution and the application. Prefer the distribution repository for system integration, use the project’s official download page when the repository is missing or outdated, and use Flathub when a sandboxed, cross-distribution desktop package is convenient.
Distribution repositories
Repository packages integrate with the operating system and update through the normal system updater. Package names and versions vary among Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch, openSUSE and immutable distributions, so a command that works on Ubuntu is not a universal Linux instruction.
Flatpak
Flathub provides a large Linux application catalog at Flathub. Confirm that a listing is verified or maintained by the project where possible, and review its permissions. The generic pattern is:
Best Value
- 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor - Featuring a 1920*1080P resolution, 178°FULL viewing angle, HDR, and Low Blue Light Super Clear IPS A-grade screen, this Anyuse portable screen for laptop enhanced visual experience, reduces eye strain and fatigue.
- Double Type-C Port -For Plug & Play - Anyuse portable monitor features 2 full-featured Type-C ports and 1 MINI HDMI port. You can easily access your favorite devices with just one USB Type-C or MINI HDMI cable. NOTE: Your device should support Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE.
- Portable & Light Weight - At just 1.37lbs and 0.04 inch thin, this portable laptop monitor is ultra-portable and perfect for on-the-go productivity or gaming. flexible to use anywhere you need a second screen for laptop. bringing you efficiency for meetings, work from home, and presentations.
- Able to Balance Work and Play - With multiple display modes [copy mode/extension mode/second screen mode]. During meetings,it can copy your laptop's content as a second screen to share with others.At work, it can be used as a second extended screen to increase productivity. In life, adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights, more realistic colors and images.Two built-in speakers provide an amazing viewing and gaming experience.
- Wide Compatibility - Enjoy hassle-free plug-and-play functionality with the portable monitor. it is compatible with all devices equipped with HDMI and USB Type-C ports like laptops, PS, XBOX, SWITCH game consoles, No app or driver installation required.
flatpak search APP_NAME
flatpak install flathub APP_ID
flatpak run APP_IDReplace APP_ID with the current identifier displayed by Flathub or the project’s official installation instructions. Do not copy an application ID from an untrusted third-party page.
Snap, AppImage and upstream packages
Snap, AppImage and upstream packages can be useful in specific cases, but none is universally best. Avoid random third-party binary download sites when an official project page or distribution repository exists.
What should you install for your specific need?
| If you want to… | Start with | Consider instead or additionally |
|---|---|---|
| Use a browser with strong privacy controls | Firefox | Chromium for compatibility; Falkon for a lightweight Qt interface |
| Connect an Android phone to Linux | KDE Connect | LocalSend for simple nearby file transfers |
| Play difficult local media files | VLC | MPV for a minimal, scriptable player |
| Edit documents and spreadsheets offline | LibreOffice | ONLYOFFICE for a Microsoft Office-style interface |
| Manage email locally | Thunderbird | Geary, KMail or Evolution according to desktop preference |
| Keep files synchronized between personal devices | Syncthing | Nextcloud for web access and sharing; keep a separate backup |
| Record a screen or livestream | OBS Studio | Kooha or SimpleScreenRecorder for basic capture |
| Edit photos or screenshots | GIMP | Krita for painting; Inkscape for vector graphics |
| Edit video | Kdenlive | Shotcut or OpenShot for simpler projects |
| Store passwords locally | KeePassXC | Bitwarden for managed synchronization |
What safety and maintenance rules matter?
- Keep Linux, applications, browser extensions and plugins updated through trusted channels.
- Do not treat open source as a guarantee of privacy, security or active maintenance.
- Review Flatpak permissions and avoid granting broad access without a reason.
- Download applications from distribution repositories or official project pages.
- Keep independent backups of Thunderbird profiles, Syncthing data and KeePassXC databases.
- Test restoration before trusting a password vault, mail profile or synchronization setup.
- Remember that an unlocked computer can expose local email, passwords and synchronized files even when the applications themselves are well designed.
Are paid services useful alongside these FOSS apps?
Paid services are optional and should solve a limitation rather than replace the FOSS application. Bitwarden can provide more convenient managed synchronization than KeePassXC. Nextcloud can provide browser access and sharing around a workflow that Syncthing does not fully replicate, although self-hosting requires updates, storage, backups and security administration. Proton Drive can add remote cloud access and an off-site copy, while professional LibreOffice support is mainly relevant to organizations.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesLinux-focused hardware vendors such as Framework, System76 and TUXEDO Computers may also interest readers choosing hardware for Linux. Model support, firmware, distribution compatibility, shipping and warranty coverage vary by product and country; these vendors are not required to use any application in this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all ten applications completely free to use?
The ten recommended desktop applications are commonly recognized as FOSS projects, but optional cloud services, support, extensions, codecs and infrastructure around an open-source application may have separate terms or costs. Free download and FOSS are not synonyms.
Is Syncthing a replacement for Dropbox or Google Drive?
Syncthing replaces some file-synchronization use cases, but it does not automatically provide hosted collaboration, public sharing links, off-site durability or managed recovery. Keep a separate backup because synchronization can propagate deletion, corruption or ransomware.
Which Linux app should I use to connect my Android phone?
KDE Connect is the best choice when you want notifications, message replies, file and link sharing, remote controls or a presentation remote. LocalSend is simpler when you only need to transfer files between nearby devices.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Is KeePassXC safer than a hosted password manager?
KeePassXC gives you local control over an encrypted database, which reduces dependence on a hosted account, but it also makes you responsible for backups, synchronization and recovery. A managed service may be more convenient for multi-device use.
Can LibreOffice open Microsoft Office documents?
LibreOffice can open many Microsoft Office documents, but complex layouts, fonts, macros and spreadsheet formulas may not render identically. Reopen important files in the requested format and export to PDF when stable visual layout matters.
The Bottom Line
Install selectively. Firefox, VLC, LibreOffice and KeePassXC are broadly useful starting points; add KDE Connect, Thunderbird, Syncthing, OBS Studio, GIMP or Kdenlive only when those applications match your workflow. The most enjoyable Linux desktop is not the one with the most packages—it is the one with tools that solve real problems while preserving sensible backup and privacy practices.
Quick Recap
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