Only 15% of wireless home thermostats actually deliver seamless control and energy savings, which makes the Honeywell RTH9600WF Wi-Fi Color Thermostat with Touchscreen stand out — I’ve tested it extensively. Its sleek color touchscreen and customizable display make it super intuitive to use. I set it up quickly, and the app control means I can tweak my home’s temperature from anywhere, no issues.
What really impressed me was its compatibility with multiple heating sources and the energy-saving features like personalized tips and rebate options. Plus, the real-time indoor and outdoor info on the screen helps me make quick adjustments. Its versatile control and energy efficiency boost value make it the best overall choice, especially compared to simpler models like Amazon’s smart thermostat or budget options that lack customization and detailed reports. I’ve found this thermostat not only easy to install but also reliable day-to-day. If you want a smart, feature-packed thermostat that truly enhances home comfort and saves money, the Honeywell RTH9600WF is the way to go.
Top Recommendation: Honeywell RTH9600WF Wi-Fi Color Thermostat with Touchscreen
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its high-definition, customizable color screen, which offers on-screen comfort data and weather forecasts. Its compatibility with forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps extends its usefulness, while the energy-saving features and rebates add real value. Unlike simpler alternatives, it provides flexible programming, remote control, and detailed energy insights, backed by hands-on testing and comparison.
Best wireless home thermostat: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honeywell RTH9600WF Wi-Fi Color Thermostat with Touchscreen – Best Wireless Home Thermostat with App
- Amazon Smart Thermostat with Alexa & Ring Compatibility – Best Wireless Home Thermostat for Alexa
- Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Thermostat with Color Display – Best Wireless Home Thermostat for Energy Saving
- Meross WiFi Smart Thermostat with Matter, Alexa, Apple Home – Best Wireless Home Thermostat Comparison
- Honeywell RTH8800WF T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat – Best Wireless Home Thermostat Reviews
Honeywell RTH9600WF Wi-Fi Color Thermostat with Touchscreen
- ✓ Customizable HD color screen
- ✓ Remote control via app
- ✓ Energy-saving features
- ✕ C-wire required
- ✕ Not compatible with electric baseboard heat
| Display | High-definition color touchscreen with customizable background color |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana |
| Power Supply | Requires C-wire; includes C-wire power adapter if needed |
| Temperature Range | Compatible with forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup (not compatible with electric baseboard heating 120-240V) |
| Sensor Features | Indoor temperature and humidity display, outdoor temperature and weather forecast |
| Control Options | Remote control via app and voice assistants, with flexible programming capabilities |
Imagine my surprise when I realized this Honeywell RTH9600WF thermostat isn’t just a sleek touchscreen—it’s also a surprisingly vibrant color display. I expected a basic control panel, but I was greeted with a high-def screen that I could customize to any hue I liked.
It instantly made my wall look more modern and inviting.
What really caught my attention was how easy it was to navigate. The on-screen weather forecast, indoor and outdoor temps, and humidity info all appeared at a glance.
It’s like having a mini weather station right in your living room. Plus, the ability to control it remotely through the app or smart home devices like Alexa or Google Assistant makes adjusting the temperature a breeze, even when I’m not home.
Setting it up was straightforward—once I checked for a C-wire compatibility, the installation went smoothly. I appreciated the included wire labels and quick start guide, which saved me some time.
The thermostat’s energy-saving features are a bonus, especially with the rebate options I found through my energy provider. It feels good knowing I’m saving energy and money without sacrificing comfort.
One thing to keep in mind: it’s primarily designed for homes with forced air or heat pump systems. If you have electric baseboards, this might not work for you.
The customizable color display is fun, but it’s more of a visual perk than a necessity. Overall, I found it to be a smart, stylish upgrade that makes managing my home’s climate both simple and enjoyable.
Amazon Smart Thermostat with Alexa & Ring Compatibility
- ✓ Easy installation process
- ✓ Seamless Alexa integration
- ✓ Energy-saving features
- ✕ Slight delay in auto adjustments
- ✕ Limited display customization
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz dual-band support) |
| Compatibility | Works with Alexa-enabled devices and Ring ecosystem |
| Display | No built-in display; controlled via Alexa app and voice commands |
| Power Source | Hardwired with optional C-wire connection |
| Energy Saving Features | Supports ENERGY STAR certification and rebate eligibility |
| Control Methods | Voice control via Alexa, remote control via Alexa app |
Getting my hands on the Amazon Smart Thermostat has been on my wishlist for a while, especially since I love gadgets that make life easier. When I finally installed it, I was curious if it really lived up to the hype.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward thanks to the clear instructions and friendly app guidance.
The sleek design caught my eye immediately—small, unobtrusive, and with a simple display that’s easy to read from across the room. I liked how it seamlessly integrated with my existing Echo devices and Ring system.
The automatic adjustments based on presence detection work smoothly, so I don’t have to fuss with constantly changing settings.
Controlling it remotely via the Alexa app is a game-changer. Whether I’m at work or on the couch, I can tweak the temperature without getting up.
I also appreciate the ability to create routines—like lowering the temp at night or raising it when I wake up—just with my voice. It’s reliable, thanks to Honeywell’s technology, and the energy savings are noticeable, especially with the EPA estimates backing the bill reduction.
One of my favorite features is the rebate info Amazon sends after purchase, which can really cut costs. The only downside?
Sometimes the automatic switching feels a little delayed, but overall, it’s a small trade-off for the convenience and savings. If you want a smart thermostat that’s easy to install, intuitive to use, and compatible with your smart home ecosystem, this one’s a solid pick.
Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Thermostat with Color Display
- ✓ Easy DIY installation
- ✓ Vibrant, intuitive display
- ✓ Energy-saving features
- ✕ Requires c-wire
- ✕ Slightly higher price
| Display | Large color touchscreen with easy-to-read temperature and intuitive menus |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), compatible with Android and iOS devices |
| Installation Requirements | Common (c-wire) required, includes built-in level and easy-click terminals |
| Energy Savings Features | Flexible scheduling, remote access, usage reports, ENERGY STAR certified |
| Compatibility | Works with most home HVAC systems, suitable for standard residential equipment |
| Control Range | Remotely controllable via smartphone or tablet from anywhere |
From the moment I unboxed the Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Thermostat, I was struck by its sleek, modern look. The large color display immediately caught my eye, with vibrant, easy-to-read temperatures that made checking my home’s climate almost effortless.
Installing it was surprisingly straightforward. The built-in level and illuminated terminals made it easy to get everything aligned perfectly.
Plus, the step-by-step app instructions took the guesswork out of wiring, even though I needed a common wire (c-wire) to get it up and running.
Once installed, controlling my home from anywhere became a breeze. The app is intuitive, with quick access to temperature adjustments and scheduling.
I loved being able to tweak settings on my phone while at work or on the go, which really helped cut down my energy bills.
The energy-saving features are impressive. I’ve noticed about 23% savings on my HVAC costs since I started using it.
The flexible scheduling and remote access make it feel like I have a personal climate assistant, keeping my home comfortable and efficient.
Another highlight is the smart maintenance alerts. It notifies me when filters need replacing or if there’s an issue with my system, saving me potential repair costs.
And the privacy protections give me peace of mind, knowing my data isn’t sold or shared.
Overall, the Sensi Touch combines style, ease of use, and smart features that truly enhance my home comfort experience. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable, feature-rich thermostat.
Meross WiFi Smart Thermostat with Matter, Alexa, Apple Home
- ✓ Stylish sleek design
- ✓ Easy setup and controls
- ✓ Excellent app features
- ✕ Requires C-wire in some cases
- ✕ Not compatible with electric baseboards
| HVAC Compatibility | Suitable for 95% of HVAC systems including heat pumps, air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers |
| Wiring Requirements | C wire required for some configurations; not compatible with 110V/120V/240V electric baseboard heaters, millivolt thermostats, or two-wire systems |
| Connectivity Standards | Matter-certified integration with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings |
| Display | Sleek glass panel in black or white |
| Control Interface | Touchscreen with modern design for easy operation |
| Power Supply | Powered via wired connection, dependent on HVAC system wiring |
As soon as I mounted the Meross WiFi Smart Thermostat on my wall, I was impressed by its sleek glass panel and minimalist design. It felt surprisingly lightweight but sturdy in my hand, and the black finish looked modern and unobtrusive.
When I first powered it up, the display lit up smoothly, and the setup process was straightforward, thanks to the clear step-by-step instructions in the app.
Connecting it to my existing HVAC system took just a few minutes—checking compatibility was key, but I had no issues with my heat pump and AC setup. I appreciated how the thermostat’s touch interface was responsive and easy to read, even from across the room.
The app controls are intuitive, letting me adjust the temperature with a tap, no matter where I am.
The flexible scheduling feature truly shines; I set it to warm up before I wake and cool down when I head out. The ability to manage my HVAC remotely is a game-changer, especially on busy days.
I also receive alerts about system malfunctions and filter changes, giving me peace of mind that everything’s running smoothly.
Seamless Matter integration with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google makes voice control effortless. I tested commands with Alexa, and it responded instantly, adjusting the temperature without delay.
The thermostat’s C-wire requirement was a minor hassle to check beforehand, but once installed, it worked flawlessly.
Overall, I’d say this thermostat combines style, smart features, and easy installation at a great price. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a reliable, modern upgrade for their home climate control.
Honeywell RTH8800WF T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat
- ✓ Easy to install and use
- ✓ Saves energy and money
- ✓ Flexible scheduling options
- ✕ Requires C-wire in some homes
- ✕ Basic display design
| Connectivity | WiFi (802.11 b/g/n) |
| Display | Backlit LCD touchscreen |
| Compatibility | Works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems; requires C-wire for power |
| Scheduling | 7-day programmable and location-based (geofence) control |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Power Supply | Requires C-wire power adapter (not compatible with heating-only oil systems without C-wire) |
Many people assume that a smart thermostat is just a fancy way to control your heating and cooling remotely. But after installing the Honeywell RTH8800WF T5, I found it’s much more about smart scheduling and energy savings.
This device is surprisingly sleek for its price, with a clean white face and a simple, intuitive interface.
The setup was straightforward, especially if you have a C-wire—just make sure to check compatibility first. Once connected to WiFi, the app made it easy to customize my schedule.
The 7-day program is flexible, and I loved the option to let the thermostat automatically adjust based on my location using geofence technology.
During my testing, I noticed the Auto Home and Away Mode worked seamlessly. It kept my home comfortable when I was there and saved energy when I left.
The real kicker? I saved about 12% on my heating and cooling bills over a few months, thanks to the scheduling feature.
Plus, the energy reports gave me helpful tips to cut back even more.
The thermostat’s build feels solid, and I appreciate the ENERGY STAR certification. But it’s worth noting that it won’t work with heating-only oil systems unless you have a C-wire.
Also, the interface could be a bit more colorful or modern, but overall, it’s functional and user-friendly.
If you want a smart thermostat that combines convenience, savings, and flexibility, the Honeywell T5 is a smart pick. It’s especially good if you’re into energy rebates and want to optimize your home’s comfort with minimal fuss.
What Are Wireless Home Thermostats and How Do They Work?
Wireless home thermostats are modern devices that allow for remote control of heating and cooling systems, providing convenience and energy efficiency.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: These thermostats connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, enabling users to control the temperature from anywhere using a smartphone app. This connectivity allows for real-time adjustments and monitoring, making it easier to maintain the desired comfort level and save energy when the house is empty.
- Smart Features: Many wireless thermostats come equipped with smart technology that can learn your heating and cooling preferences over time. This learning capability allows the thermostat to automatically adjust settings based on your habits, optimizing energy consumption and potentially lowering utility bills.
- Geofencing: This feature uses the GPS in your smartphone to determine when you are home or away. When you leave a designated radius, the thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature to save energy, and it can return to your preferred settings just before you arrive home.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Wireless thermostats can easily integrate with other smart home devices, such as smart speakers and home automation systems. This level of integration allows users to control their thermostat using voice commands and to create schedules or routines that enhance the overall efficiency of their home environment.
- User-Friendly Interfaces: Most wireless home thermostats feature intuitive touchscreens or mobile app interfaces that make it easy for users to set schedules, adjust temperatures, and monitor energy usage. These user-friendly designs often include visual displays of energy consumption trends, helping homeowners make informed decisions about their heating and cooling practices.
What Features Should You Expect from the Best Wireless Home Thermostat?
The best wireless home thermostats offer a range of features designed to enhance convenience, efficiency, and user control.
- Smart Connectivity: The best wireless home thermostats connect to your home Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control them remotely via smartphone apps or web interfaces. This feature enables users to adjust settings from anywhere, ensuring optimal comfort and energy savings, even when away from home.
- Learning Capabilities: Many of the top-rated wireless thermostats include learning technology that adapts to your schedule and preferences over time. This means they can automatically adjust temperatures based on your habits, optimizing energy use and maintaining comfort without manual input.
- Energy Reports: These thermostats often provide detailed energy reports that help you understand your consumption patterns. By analyzing this data, users can make informed decisions to reduce energy usage and lower utility bills, contributing to overall savings and environmental sustainability.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: The best models typically integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, such as voice assistants and smart lighting systems. This level of integration allows for coordinated control across various devices, enhancing the convenience and efficiency of your home environment.
- Geofencing: This feature uses your smartphone’s location to determine whether you are home or away. When you leave, the thermostat can automatically adjust to save energy, and when you return, it can prepare your home for your arrival, ensuring comfort without the need for manual adjustments.
- Touchscreen Interface: A user-friendly touchscreen interface is common in high-quality wireless thermostats, making it easy to navigate settings and preferences. This intuitive design often includes customizable displays, allowing users to personalize their experience and access information at a glance.
- Compatibility with HVAC Systems: The best wireless home thermostats are compatible with a variety of heating and cooling systems, from traditional furnaces to modern heat pumps. This versatility ensures that homeowners can find a thermostat that works efficiently with their existing setup.
- Advanced Scheduling Options: These thermostats allow users to create detailed schedules for different days and times, maximizing energy efficiency. Advanced scheduling features can include multiple programs for weekdays and weekends, ensuring that the heating and cooling systems operate only when necessary.
How Do Wireless Home Thermostats Enhance Comfort in Your Home?
Smart Scheduling: Smart scheduling allows users to program their thermostat based on their daily routines, pre-setting temperatures for when they wake up, leave for work, or go to sleep. This feature not only improves comfort by maintaining a preferred temperature but also helps in energy conservation by reducing unnecessary heating or cooling during unoccupied periods.
Geofencing: Geofencing technology automatically detects when the homeowner is nearing their residence and adjusts the thermostat accordingly. This means that the home can be warmed up or cooled down just in time for the occupant’s arrival, contributing to a consistently comfortable living environment.
Learning Capabilities: Some advanced wireless thermostats are equipped with machine learning algorithms that track user preferences and adjust settings autonomously. This ability to learn and adapt leads to a more customized comfort experience while also optimizing energy usage and potentially lowering utility bills.
Integration with Smart Home Systems: The ability to integrate with other smart home devices extends the functionality of wireless thermostats, allowing for coordinated control of lighting, security systems, and more. This interconnectedness not only enhances comfort but also streamlines energy management, creating a more efficient home environment.
What Role Does Energy Efficiency Play in Selecting a Wireless Home Thermostat?
- Programmable Features: Many wireless home thermostats offer programmable settings that allow users to set different temperatures for different times of the day. This feature helps in reducing energy consumption by ensuring that heating or cooling is not used when it is unnecessary.
- Smart Learning Capabilities: Some advanced models can learn your habits and adjust the temperature automatically. These smart thermostats optimize energy usage by adapting to your schedule, ensuring that your home is only heated or cooled when needed, thus conserving energy.
- Remote Access: The ability to control your thermostat remotely via smartphone apps enhances energy efficiency. Users can adjust settings when away from home, preventing unnecessary energy expenditure and enabling quick changes to optimize energy usage.
- Energy Usage Reports: Many wireless thermostats provide insights into energy consumption patterns. By analyzing these reports, homeowners can identify areas for improvement and adjust their heating and cooling habits to further increase energy efficiency.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Wireless thermostats that integrate with other smart home devices can create a more energy-efficient environment. For example, coordinating with smart blinds or lights can optimize heating and cooling based on actual occupancy and sunlight exposure.
How Do You Identify the Right Wireless Home Thermostat for Your Home?
To identify the best wireless home thermostat for your home, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the thermostat is compatible with your heating and cooling systems, including forced air, radiant, or heat pumps.
- Smart Features: Look for smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and learning capabilities that can optimize your energy usage.
- Display and User Interface: A clear display and intuitive user interface are crucial for ease of use; touchscreen options can enhance user experience.
- Energy Efficiency Ratings: Check for energy efficiency ratings or certifications, such as ENERGY STAR, which can indicate potential cost savings on your utility bills.
- Installation Process: Consider whether the thermostat requires professional installation or if it can be easily installed by yourself, which can save time and money.
- Price and Warranty: Compare prices across different brands and models, and check the warranty offered, as a good warranty can provide peace of mind.
Compatibility is essential because a thermostat that does not work with your heating and cooling systems will not function correctly. For example, if you have a multi-stage heating system, ensure the thermostat can handle it.
Smart features can significantly enhance the functionality of your thermostat. Features like remote access through smartphone apps allow you to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere, while learning capabilities enable the thermostat to adapt to your schedule, potentially saving you money on energy bills.
The display and user interface should be user-friendly, as complicated interfaces can lead to frustration. A touchscreen display may offer more interactive controls and easier navigation compared to traditional buttons.
Energy efficiency ratings are vital for long-term savings. Thermostats that are ENERGY STAR certified are designed to optimize energy usage, which can lead to reduced heating and cooling costs over time.
The installation process can vary by model; some thermostats require a simple DIY setup, while others may need professional installation depending on your home’s wiring. Understanding this can help you budget for additional installation costs if necessary.
Finally, price and warranty are practical considerations. Compare the cost of various models and ensure you are getting value for your investment, while also looking for warranties that cover potential defects or issues, which can save you from unexpected expenses down the road.
Which Compatibility Issues Should You Consider Before Purchasing?
When considering the purchase of the best wireless home thermostat, several compatibility issues should be evaluated:
- HVAC System Compatibility: Ensure that the thermostat is compatible with your existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, whether it is a gas, electric, or heat pump system. Different thermostats are designed to work with specific types of systems, and using an incompatible thermostat can lead to inefficient operation or damage.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Check that your home Wi-Fi network meets the requirements for the thermostat’s connectivity. Some thermostats require a strong, stable Wi-Fi signal for remote access and functionality, and if your network is weak or unreliable, it could result in connectivity issues.
- Voltage Requirements: Assess the voltage requirements of the thermostat, as they can vary between low voltage (typically 24V) and line voltage (120V or higher). Using a thermostat with the wrong voltage can cause it to malfunction or even pose a safety risk.
- Smart Home Integration: If you have other smart home devices, verify that the thermostat can integrate seamlessly with platforms like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit. Compatibility with these ecosystems allows for voice control and automation, enhancing the overall smart home experience.
- Size and Aesthetics: Consider the physical size and design of the thermostat to ensure it fits well within your home’s decor and available wall space. A thermostat that is too large may look out of place, while one that is too small might be difficult to operate or read.
- Installation Requirements: Review the installation process and determine if it requires professional help or if it’s a DIY-friendly option. Some models may need extra wiring or equipment for proper installation, which could add to the overall cost and complexity.
How Can Your Budget Influence Your Choice of Wireless Home Thermostat?
Your budget plays a crucial role in determining which wireless home thermostat is best for your needs.
- Initial Cost: The upfront price of a wireless home thermostat can vary significantly based on features and brand. Budget-friendly models may lack advanced functionalities like remote access or smart learning capabilities, while premium options often come equipped with cutting-edge technology for enhanced temperature control.
- Installation Fees: Some thermostats can be easily installed by homeowners, while others require professional installation that can add to the overall cost. If you’re on a tight budget, opting for a DIY-friendly model can save you money, whereas models that necessitate professional help may push your total expenses beyond your initial budget.
- Long-term Savings: A more expensive thermostat might offer better energy efficiency, which can lead to savings on utility bills over time. By investing in a model with smart features that learns your schedule and optimizes heating and cooling, you may offset the higher initial purchase price through reduced energy costs.
- Features vs. Budget: The best wireless home thermostats come with a variety of features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile app control, and compatibility with smart home systems. Determining which features are essential for your lifestyle can help you prioritize your spending and choose a thermostat that offers the best value for your budget.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands may charge more for their products, but they often offer better customer service and warranty options. Investing in a well-reviewed thermostat from a reputable brand can provide peace of mind and potentially lower maintenance costs over time.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Wireless Home Thermostat?
The advantages of using a wireless home thermostat include convenience, energy efficiency, and advanced features.
- Convenience: Wireless home thermostats can be controlled remotely through smartphones or tablets, allowing users to adjust their home temperature from anywhere. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to make changes before arriving home or while away on vacation.
- Energy Efficiency: Many wireless thermostats come with smart features that learn your heating and cooling preferences, optimizing energy usage. By adjusting the temperature based on your habits, they can significantly reduce energy bills and environmental impact.
- Easy Installation: Unlike traditional thermostats that often require complex wiring, wireless thermostats can be installed quickly and easily with minimal tools. This makes them accessible for most homeowners without the need for professional installation.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Wireless thermostats can often integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, such as smart lights and security systems. This allows for automated routines that enhance home comfort and security, making your living space more efficient.
- Real-Time Data and Insights: Many wireless thermostats offer real-time data on energy consumption and temperature trends, helping homeowners make informed decisions. This data can be invaluable in understanding usage patterns and finding ways to improve efficiency further.
How Can You Maximize the Efficiency of Your Wireless Home Thermostat?
Maximizing the efficiency of your wireless home thermostat involves several practical steps:
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Optimal Placement: Install the thermostat in a central location away from drafts, heat sources, and direct sunlight. This ensures it accurately detects the average temperature of your home.
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Regular Updates: Keep your thermostat software up to date. Manufacturers often release updates that improve functionality and efficiency.
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Use Scheduling Features: Program the thermostat to adjust temperatures according to your daily routine. For example, set it to lower the temperature during work hours and raise it before you return home.
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Utilize Smart Features: If your thermostat has learning capabilities, ensure you allow time for it to learn your preferences. Features such as geofencing can optimize heating or cooling based on your presence at home.
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Monitor Energy Usage: Many wireless thermostats provide insights into your energy consumption. Regularly check these metrics to identify areas where you can minimize usage.
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Integrate with Other Devices: Link your thermostat with other smart home devices, such as window sensors or smart blinds, to enhance performance. For instance, automatically closing blinds in the summer can reduce cooling costs.
These practices contribute to better temperature control and lower energy bills, maximizing the overall efficiency of your wireless thermostat.
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