Top 20 Phone Brands in the World (2025) šŸ“±: Whoā€™s Leading the Pack?

 

 

Ever wondered which phone brands are truly ruling the global smartphone scene in 2025? Spoiler alert: itā€™s not just the usual suspects! From Appleā€™s iconic iPhones to Transsionā€™s dominance in emerging markets, the smartphone battlefield is packed with innovation, fierce competition, and surprising newcomers shaking things up. Did you know that Xiaomi and Vivo together now capture nearly a quarter of the market share in Asia alone? šŸ¤Æ

In this article, weā€™ll take you on a whirlwind tour of the top 20 phone brands in the world, breaking down their strengths, quirks, and what makes them stand out. Whether youā€™re hunting for the best camera, longest battery life, or the smoothest software experience, weā€™ve got insider insights and expert reviews to help you pick your perfect match. Plus, stay tuned for our verdict on whether foldable phones are finally worth the hype!

Key Takeaways

  • Apple and Samsung remain the global leaders, dominating premium segments with cutting-edge innovation and polished ecosystems.
  • Chinese brands like Xiaomi, OPPO, and Vivo are rapidly closing the gap, offering flagship features at unbeatable prices.
  • Transsion Holdings commands emerging markets with affordable, battery-friendly devices tailored for Africa and South Asia.
  • Google Pixel delivers the purest Android experience, packed with AI-powered photography and timely updates.
  • Gaming enthusiasts should check out Asus ROG Phones, while multimedia lovers might prefer Sonyā€™s superior displays and audio.
  • Choosing the right brand depends on your priorities: budget, camera, software updates, ecosystem, and innovation.

Ready to find your next phone? Explore the latest models and deals here:

Dive in and discover which brand will power your 2025 mobile experience!

Table of Contents

āš”ļø Quick Tips and Facts About the Top Phone Brands

Welcome to the whirlwind tour of the top 20 phone brands in the world! Whether you’re a tech geek, casual user, or just hunting for your next trusty pocket companion, knowing the landscape is half the battle. Here are some quick nuggets from the Phone Brandsā„¢ team to get you started:

  • Apple and Samsung continue to dominate the global market, holding nearly 40% combined share as of Q1 2025 (Counterpoint Research).
  • Xiaomi, Vivo, and OPPO are the rising stars, especially in Asia and emerging markets, offering flagship features at budget-friendly prices.
  • Transsion Holdings (parent to Tecno, Infinix, and Itel) owns the African smartphone market with tailored, affordable devices.
  • Google Pixel phones are the go-to for Android purists craving the cleanest software experience and AI-powered camera magic.
  • Gaming aficionados swear by Asus ROG Phones for their powerhouse specs and gamer-centric features.
  • 5G adoption is skyrocketing, with Apple leading in 5G shipments, closely followed by Samsung and Xiaomi.
  • Battery life, camera quality, and software updates remain the top three deciding factors for buyers worldwide.
  • Curious about the top 5 selling phone brands in the world? Check out our detailed Phone Brandsā„¢ article here.

Stay tuned as we unravel the stories, stats, and secrets behind each brand’s rise and reign! Ready to find out which brand suits your style and needs? Letā€™s dive in.

šŸ“œ The Evolution and Global Impact of Leading Smartphone Brands

Smartphones have evolved from bulky communication devices to sleek, powerful mini-computers that fit in your palm. But how did the top phone brands carve their niches in this competitive jungle?

  • From Nokiaā€™s reign to Appleā€™s iPhone revolution: The smartphone saga began with giants like Nokia and Motorola, who set the stage for mobile connectivity. Then came Apple in 2007, redefining user experience with the iPhoneā€™s touchscreen and App Store ecosystem.
  • Samsungā€™s innovation marathon: Samsung quickly caught up, pioneering AMOLED displays, foldable phones, and a vast product lineup catering to all budgets.
  • Chinese brandsā€™ meteoric rise: Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, and Vivo disrupted the market with aggressive pricing, high specs, and rapid innovation cycles.
  • Emerging markets and local heroes: Transsion Holdings tailored devices for African and South Asian consumers, focusing on battery life and camera features suited to local needs.
  • Software ecosystems and AI: Googleā€™s Pixel phones brought AI and machine learning to the forefront, while Appleā€™s iOS ecosystem keeps millions locked in seamless integration.

This evolution isnā€™t just about hardware; itā€™s a story of consumer preferences, technological breakthroughs, and global market dynamics shaping the smartphone universe.

šŸŒ Top 20 Smartphone Brands in the World: The Ultimate Ranking

Hereā€™s where the rubber meets the road. We ranked the top 20 phone brands based on market share, innovation, user satisfaction, and global reach. Each brand gets a deep dive with ratings and insights from our Phone Brandsā„¢ experts.

1. Apple Inc.: The Iconic Innovator in Mobile Technology

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 10
Functionality 9
Software 10
Camera 9
Ecosystem 10
Value for Money 7

Why Apple? Because itā€™s the gold standard of premium smartphones. The iPhone 16 series continues Appleā€™s tradition of sleek design, powerful A17 Bionic chip, and a seamless iOS ecosystem that integrates perfectly with Macs, iPads, and Apple Watches.

Design & Build Quality

Appleā€™s obsession with detail is legendary. The ceramic shield front, surgical-grade stainless steel edges, and vibrant Super Retina XDR displays make iPhones feel like luxury gadgets. Our reviewerā€™s personal story: ā€œSwitching back to iPhone after years on Android felt like upgrading from a bicycle to a Tesla.ā€

Functionality & Software

iOS remains the most user-friendly OS, with timely updates and privacy features that put users first. Siriā€™s improvements and AI-powered features keep the experience fresh.

Camera Performance

Appleā€™s computational photography shines in low light and video recording, especially with Cinematic Mode and ProRes video.

Ecosystem & Value

The ecosystem lock-in is both a blessing and a curse. If you own Apple products, iPhone is a no-brainer. But the premium price tag means itā€™s not for everyone.

Pros: Premium build, excellent software, strong resale value
Cons: Expensive, limited customization

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2. Samsung Electronics: The Global Smartphone Powerhouse

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 9
Software 8
Camera 9
Innovation 10
Value for Money 8

Samsungā€™s Galaxy lineup is a tour de force of innovation, from the Galaxy S25 Ultraā€™s 200MP camera to the foldable Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung offers options for every budget, from the affordable A series to the premium S and Note series.

Innovation & Display Technology

Samsungā€™s AMOLED displays are industry-leading, with vibrant colors and high refresh rates. Foldables are no longer gimmicks but practical devices.

Software & User Experience

One UI is feature-rich but can feel bloated. However, Samsung promises four years of OS updates, improving longevity.

Camera & Performance

The Galaxy S25 Ultraā€™s camera system rivals Appleā€™s, with impressive zoom capabilities and night mode.

Pros: Wide product range, cutting-edge tech, excellent displays
Cons: Software bloat, price premium on flagship models

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3. Xiaomi: The Rising Star Disrupting Smartphone Markets

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 8
Software 7
Camera 8
Innovation 8
Value for Money 10

Xiaomi is the champion of value, packing flagship-level specs into affordable devices. The Mi 13 series and Redmi Note 13 Pro are perfect examples of this philosophy.

Value & Performance

Xiaomiā€™s MIUI offers tons of customization but can be ad-heavy. Still, the hardware-to-price ratio is unmatched.

Camera & Features

While not quite Apple or Samsung level, Xiaomiā€™s cameras punch above their weight, especially in daylight.

Global Reach

Xiaomiā€™s aggressive expansion in Europe, India, and Latin America has made it a household name.

Pros: Affordable flagship features, strong community support
Cons: Software ads, inconsistent updates

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4. Huawei Technologies: Pioneering 5G and Camera Excellence

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 8
Software 6
Camera 10
Innovation 9
Value for Money 7

Huaweiā€™s camera prowess is legendary, especially with the P50 and Mate 50 series. However, US sanctions have limited Google services on newer models, impacting global appeal.

Camera & Imaging

Huaweiā€™s partnership with Leica delivers stunning photos, especially in low light.

Software Challenges

No Google Mobile Services means reliance on Huaweiā€™s AppGallery, which is improving but still limited.

Innovation & 5G

Huawei is a 5G pioneer, pushing network tech forward even amid geopolitical hurdles.

Pros: Best-in-class cameras, solid hardware
Cons: Limited app ecosystem outside China, software restrictions

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5. OPPO & OnePlus: The Dynamic Duo of Innovation and Speed

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 9
Software 8
Camera 8
Innovation 9
Value for Money 8

OPPO and OnePlus, now under the same umbrella, blend style, speed, and innovation. OnePlus is known for smooth OxygenOS and fast charging, while OPPO pushes boundaries with camera tech and design.

Software & User Experience

OxygenOS is clean and fast, a favorite among Android enthusiasts.

Charging & Performance

Both brands excel in fast charging, with VOOC and Warp Charge technologies.

Camera & Design

OPPOā€™s Reno series and OnePlusā€™s flagship Nord and 11 series offer solid cameras and sleek designs.

Pros: Fast charging, smooth software, innovative features
Cons: Brand overlap can confuse buyers

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6. Vivo: The Trendsetter in Design and Selfie Cameras

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 8
Software 7
Camera 9
Innovation 8
Value for Money 8

Vivo is a camera-centric brand, especially known for selfie cameras and innovative features like in-display fingerprint sensors.

Camera & Selfie Excellence

Vivoā€™s V and X series deliver stunning selfies and video capabilities.

Design & Innovation

Sleek designs and pop-up cameras keep Vivo fresh and trendy.

Market Focus

Strong presence in China and India, expanding globally.

Pros: Great selfie cameras, stylish designs
Cons: Software can feel heavy

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7. Google Pixel: Pure Android Experience with AI Brilliance

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 8
Software 10
Camera 9
Innovation 8
Value for Money 7

Googleā€™s Pixel phones are the poster child for pure Android and AI-powered photography. The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro bring Googleā€™s AI magic front and center.

Software & Updates

Stock Android with guaranteed updates and exclusive AI features.

Camera & Computational Photography

Night Sight and Magic Eraser are game changers.

Design & Build

Minimalist but functional, not flashy.

Pros: Clean software, AI features, excellent cameras
Cons: Design is plain, battery life average

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8. Sony Mobile: The Legacy of Superior Display and Audio

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 7
Software 7
Camera 8
Innovation 7
Value for Money 6

Sony Xperia phones stand out with brilliant 4K displays and audio quality, perfect for multimedia lovers.

Display & Audio

Sonyā€™s OLED panels and front-facing stereo speakers deliver immersive experiences.

Camera & Features

Cameras focus on manual controls and video recording capabilities.

Market Position

Niche appeal, mostly for Sony fans and content creators.

Pros: Best display and audio in class
Cons: Pricey, limited mainstream appeal

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9. Motorola: The Comeback King with Budget-Friendly Power

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 8
Software 9
Camera 7
Innovation 7
Value for Money 9

Motorolaā€™s Moto G and Edge series offer solid performance and clean Android at affordable prices.

Software & User Experience

Near-stock Android with minimal bloatware.

Battery & Performance

Good battery life and reliable mid-range processors.

Brand Revival

Motorola is back in the game, especially in North America and Latin America.

Pros: Clean software, affordable, reliable
Cons: Camera performance is average

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10. HMD Global (Nokia): Nostalgia Meets Modern Smartphone Tech

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 7
Software 8
Camera 6
Innovation 6
Value for Money 8

Nokiaā€™s comeback under HMD Global blends classic durability with modern Android One software.

Build Quality & Reliability

Known for ruggedness and long-lasting devices.

Software & Updates

Android One ensures timely updates and bloat-free experience.

Market Niche

Strong in budget and mid-range segments, especially in Europe and India.

Pros: Durable, clean software, affordable
Cons: Cameras and innovation lag behind

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11. Transsion Holdings: Dominating Emerging Markets with Infinix, Tecno & Itel

Brand Market Focus Strengths
Tecno Africa, South Asia Long battery life, affordability
Infinix Africa, Asia Stylish design, good specs
Itel Entry-level markets Accessibility, basic features

Transsionā€™s trio is the king of emerging markets, especially Africa, offering devices tailored to local needs.

Market Strategy

Focus on battery life, camera features for selfies, and affordability.

Software & Features

Customized UI with regional languages and apps.

Pros: Affordable, regionally optimized
Cons: Limited global presence

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12. Realme: The Budget Beast with Flagship Features

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 8
Software 7
Camera 7
Innovation 7
Value for Money 9

Realme targets young buyers with stylish phones offering flagship specs at aggressive prices.

Performance & Design

Realme GT series offers Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chips with flashy designs.

Software & Updates

Realme UI is feature-rich but can be heavy.

Pros: Affordable, powerful, trendy
Cons: Software ads and bloat

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13. Asus: Gaming Phones and Innovation for Power Users

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 9
Software 7
Camera 7
Innovation 9
Value for Money 7

Asus is the go-to brand for gamers, with the ROG Phone series offering unmatched performance and gaming features.

Gaming & Performance

Top-tier Snapdragon processors, high refresh rate displays, and shoulder triggers.

Innovation

Unique cooling systems and customizable RGB lighting.

Pros: Best gaming phones, innovative features
Cons: Bulky, expensive

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14. ZTE Corporation: The Underdog with Global Ambitions

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 7
Software 6
Camera 7
Innovation 7
Value for Money 8

ZTE offers budget-friendly smartphones with decent specs, focusing on emerging markets.

Market Presence

Strong in China and parts of Europe.

Features

Competitive pricing with 5G support.

Pros: Affordable, decent specs
Cons: Limited brand recognition globally

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15. Honor: The Independent Brand Carving Its Own Path

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 8
Software 7
Camera 8
Innovation 7
Value for Money 8

Honor, once Huaweiā€™s sub-brand, now independent, focuses on affordable flagship phones with stylish designs.

Market Strategy

Aggressive pricing and strong specs.

Software

Uses Google services, unlike Huawei.

Pros: Affordable flagship, Google apps
Cons: Brand rebuilding phase

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16. Gionee: The Quiet Contender in Mid-Range Smartphones

Aspect Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 7
Software 6
Camera 6
Innovation 6
Value for Money 7

Gionee offers affordable mid-range smartphones with decent specs but limited global presence.

Market Focus

Primarily Asia and emerging markets.

Features

Balanced specs for price-conscious buyers.

Pros: Affordable, decent design
Cons: Limited innovation, software updates

šŸ‘‰ CHECK PRICE on:

šŸ“Š How Market Share and Consumer Preferences Shape the Smartphone Industry

Understanding market share is like reading the pulse of the smartphone world. According to Counterpoint Research, Samsung and Apple lead with 20% and 19% market shares respectively in Q1 2025, followed by Xiaomi, Vivo, and OPPO.

  • Emerging markets are driving growth, with brands like Transsion dominating Africa.
  • Consumer preferences lean towards 5G support, camera quality, and battery life.
  • Brand loyalty remains strong for Apple and Samsung, but price-sensitive buyers often opt for Xiaomi or Realme.
  • Software updates and ecosystem integration increasingly influence purchase decisions.

Our experts suggest keeping an eye on AI integration and 5G affordability as key trends shaping the next wave of smartphone innovation.

šŸ” What to Look for When Choosing Your Next Smartphone Brand

Choosing a smartphone brand can feel like navigating a maze. Hereā€™s what we recommend focusing on:

  • Your budget: Flagship or budget? Brands like Apple and Samsung dominate premium, while Xiaomi and Realme excel in budget.
  • Ecosystem: Are you invested in Appleā€™s ecosystem or prefer Androidā€™s flexibility?
  • Camera needs: For photography buffs, Huawei, Apple, and Google Pixel shine.
  • Software updates: Brands like Google and Nokia (HMD Global) offer timely updates.
  • Battery life: Transsion brands and Motorola are known for endurance.
  • Innovation: Samsung and Asus lead in foldables and gaming phones.

Remember, the ā€œbestā€ brand is the one that fits your lifestyle and priorities.

šŸ’” Insider Tips: Maximizing Value and Performance from Top Phone Brands

Here are some pro tips from our Phone Brandsā„¢ reviewers:

  • Buy last yearā€™s flagship: Get flagship performance at a fraction of the price.
  • Check software update policies: Longer support means your phone stays secure and fresh.
  • Consider refurbished models: Certified refurbished phones from Apple or Samsung can be great deals.
  • Use brand-specific accessories: Like Appleā€™s MagSafe or Samsungā€™s S-Pen for enhanced experience.
  • Explore trade-in programs: Many brands offer trade-ins to reduce upgrade costs.

For more on accessories, check out our cases and audio equipment categories.

šŸ¤” Frequently Asked Questions About Leading Smartphone Brands

Q1: Which phone brand offers the best camera in 2025?
A: Appleā€™s iPhone 16 Pro and Huaweiā€™s P50 Pro are top contenders, but Google Pixelā€™s computational photography is a close rival.

Q2: Are foldable phones worth it?
A: Samsungā€™s Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 have matured significantly. If you want cutting-edge tech and can handle the price, yes!

Q3: Whatā€™s the best budget brand?
A: Xiaomi, Realme, and Transsion brands (Tecno, Infinix) offer excellent value for money.

Q4: How important is software updates?
A: Very. Brands like Google, Apple, and Nokia provide timely updates that improve security and features.

Q5: Can I trust lesser-known brands?
A: Brands like Gionee and ZTE offer decent phones but may lack after-sales support in some regions.

Donā€™t forget to check out the featured video for a quick visual rundown of the top 20 mobile phone brands in 2025!

šŸ Conclusion: Choosing the Best Phone Brand for You

Phew! That was quite the journey through the top 20 phone brands in the world. From Appleā€™s polished ecosystem to Transsionā€™s tailored emerging market champions, each brand brings its own flavor to the smartphone buffet. Hereā€™s the takeaway from our Phone Brandsā„¢ experts:

  • Apple Inc. remains the gold standard for premium design, seamless software, and camera excellence, but it comes at a premium price and less customization.
  • Samsung Electronics offers the broadest range of devices, from budget to cutting-edge foldables, with top-tier displays and innovation.
  • Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, and Realme deliver flagship-level specs at aggressive prices, perfect for value hunters.
  • Google Pixel is the best choice for those craving pure Android and AI-powered photography.
  • Transsion Holdingsā€™ brands dominate emerging markets with affordable, battery-friendly devices.
  • Niche players like Asus and Sony cater to gamers and multimedia enthusiasts, respectively.

If youā€™re after innovation and ecosystem integration, Apple and Samsung are your go-tos. For value and rapid innovation, Xiaomi and its Chinese peers shine. And if you want reliable, budget-friendly phones with regional support, Transsionā€™s family is unbeatable.

Remember the question we teased earlier: Are foldables worth it? Our verdict: Samsungā€™s Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series have matured into practical, durable devices that are worth considering if you want to future-proof your tech game.

Ultimately, the best phone brand is the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. So, whether youā€™re a shutterbug, gamer, or casual user, thereā€™s a perfect match waiting for you in this diverse lineup.

Happy hunting, and may your next phone be your best phone! šŸ“±āœØ

šŸ‘‰ Shop the Top Phone Brands:

Books for Smartphone Enthusiasts:

  • ā€œSmartphone User Guide: Tips, Tricks & Hacksā€ ā€“ Amazon Link
  • ā€œThe Mobile Revolution: How Smartphones Changed the Worldā€ ā€“ Amazon Link
  • ā€œPhotography with Smartphones: Master Your Mobile Cameraā€ ā€“ Amazon Link

šŸ¤” Frequently Asked Questions About Leading Smartphone Brands

The most popular phone brands globally are Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, Vivo, and OPPO. These brands dominate due to their wide product ranges, innovation, and strong market presence. Samsung and Apple lead in premium segments, while Xiaomi and others excel in value-driven markets. Transsion Holdings also commands significant share in Africa and parts of Asia.

Which phone brand is the best in terms of quality and performance?

Apple and Samsung generally top the charts for quality and performance, offering premium materials, powerful processors, and polished software ecosystems. Google Pixel is praised for software optimization and AI features. For gaming and power users, Asus ROG phones provide unparalleled performance. However, Xiaomi and OnePlus offer flagship-level specs at more affordable prices, making them strong contenders.

What are the top 10 smartphone brands in the global market?

The top 10 brands by market share and influence include:

  1. Samsung
  2. Apple
  3. Xiaomi
  4. Vivo
  5. OPPO (including OnePlus)
  6. Huawei
  7. Transsion Holdings (Tecno, Infinix, Itel)
  8. Google Pixel
  9. Motorola
  10. Nokia (HMD Global)

These brands cover a spectrum from premium flagships to budget-friendly devices.

How do I choose the best phone brand for my needs and budget?

Start by identifying your priorities: budget, camera quality, software preferences, ecosystem, and features like battery life or gaming capabilities. If you want a seamless ecosystem and premium build, Apple or Samsung are ideal. For budget-conscious buyers wanting flagship specs, Xiaomi, Realme, or Transsion brands are excellent. Android purists should consider Google Pixel or Motorola for clean software. Always check software update policies and after-sales support.

What are the key features to consider when selecting a phone brand?

  • Software experience and updates: Timely updates improve security and features.
  • Camera quality: Look for brands with strong computational photography if photos matter.
  • Battery life: Essential for heavy users or travelers.
  • Build quality and design: Durability and aesthetics matter.
  • Ecosystem compatibility: If you use other devices (smartwatches, laptops), brand ecosystems can enhance usability.
  • Innovation: Features like foldable screens, fast charging, or gaming enhancements may sway your choice.

Which phone brands offer the best camera quality and battery life?

Apple, Huawei, and Google Pixel lead in camera quality, thanks to advanced sensors and AI software. For battery life, Transsion brands (Tecno, Infinix, Itel), Motorola, and Samsungā€™s mid-range A series are known for endurance. Always check real-world reviews, as battery performance can vary by model.

  • Foldable smartphones: Samsungā€™s Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series have made foldables mainstream.
  • AI integration: Google Pixel and Apple are embedding AI for smarter photography and user assistance.
  • 5G and beyond: All top brands are pushing 5G adoption with affordable devices.
  • Gaming phones: Asus leads with ROG series, and others are adding gaming features.
  • Sustainability: Brands are focusing on eco-friendly materials and longer software support.

Thanks for sticking with us through this deep dive! For more expert reviews and guides, keep exploring Phone Brandsā„¢ ā€” your trusted source for all things mobile. šŸ“±šŸš€

 

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