Introduction to Podcasting on Your Phone

Podcasting has swiftly become one of the most popular forms of media consumption, offering a unique platform for individuals to share their thoughts, stories, and expertise with a global audience. Traditionally, podcasting required expensive equipment and intricate setups, making it seem inaccessible to many. However, with the advancements in technology, creating a podcast has become easier than ever, and you can now create and manage your own podcast right from the convenience of your smartphone.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the exciting world of podcasting on your phone and provide you with a step-by-step roadmap to create and launch your own podcast. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster looking for a more mobile-friendly approach or a complete beginner eager to dip your toes into the podcasting realm, this guide will equip you with all the necessary knowledge and tools to get started.

Understanding the Potential of Podcasting on Mobile Devices

Mobile devices have revolutionized the way we consume media, and podcasting is no exception. Smartphones have become our constant companions, offering us the flexibility to access content on the go. Creating a podcast on your phone allows for greater freedom and convenience, eliminating the need for expensive recording equipment and dedicated studio spaces. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can record, edit, and publish your podcast episodes, reaching an ever-expanding audience.

Benefits of Creating a Podcast on Your Phone

The allure of podcasting on your phone extends beyond convenience. Here are some key benefits to consider:

1. Cost-Effective: Traditional podcasting setups can be quite expensive, requiring specialized equipment and software. By utilizing your smartphone, you can significantly reduce costs without compromising on quality.

2. Portability and Flexibility: With a smartphone in your pocket, you have the freedom to record and edit your podcast from anywhere, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or on the go. This flexibility allows you to adapt to your schedule and capture your thoughts and ideas whenever inspiration strikes.

3. Ease of Use: Smartphones are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive apps and interfaces that make podcasting accessible to everyone. Even if you have no prior experience in audio recording or editing, you can quickly learn the ropes and start podcasting with ease.

4. Rapid Publishing: Once your podcast episode is ready, you can swiftly publish it to popular podcast directories and platforms directly from your phone. This means that your content can reach a global audience within minutes, expanding your reach and attracting new listeners.

Now that we’ve explored the advantages of podcasting on your phone, let’s dive into the specifics of equipment and software, ensuring you have everything you need to get started on your podcasting journey.

Choosing the Right Equipment and Software

To embark on your podcasting journey on your phone, it’s important to ensure that you have the right equipment and software in place. While smartphones offer built-in capabilities for recording audio, investing in additional hardware and selecting the right software can elevate the quality of your podcast. Let’s explore the key considerations in choosing the right equipment and software for podcasting on your phone.

Evaluating the Hardware Requirements for Podcasting on Your Phone

Before you start recording your podcast episodes, it’s essential to assess the hardware requirements of your smartphone. While most modern smartphones have built-in microphones, they may not provide the best audio quality for podcasting purposes. Consider the following factors when evaluating your smartphone’s suitability for podcasting:

Smartphone Specifications for Podcasting

1. Microphone Quality: Check the specifications of your smartphone to determine the quality of its built-in microphone. Look for features like noise cancellation, frequency response, and sensitivity to ensure clear and professional-sounding audio.

2. Storage Capacity: Podcast episodes can consume a significant amount of storage space, especially if you plan on recording lengthy interviews or discussions. Ensure that your smartphone has sufficient storage capacity or consider using external storage options to avoid running out of space.

3. Battery Life: Recording and editing podcast episodes can be power-intensive tasks. It’s important to have a smartphone with a reliable battery life to ensure uninterrupted recording sessions or have a power backup option readily available.

Recommended Microphones and Accessories

While smartphone microphones have improved over the years, investing in an external microphone can significantly enhance the audio quality of your podcast. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Lavalier Microphones: These clip-on microphones are ideal for recording interviews or podcast episodes on the go. They provide hands-free operation and capture clear audio directly from the source.

2. USB Microphones: USB microphones are versatile options that can be connected to your smartphone using a USB adapter. They offer excellent sound quality and often come with additional features like adjustable gain control and headphone monitoring.

3. Portable Audio Interfaces: If you prefer using professional-grade XLR microphones, a portable audio interface can be used to connect them to your smartphone. These interfaces provide better audio quality and more control over your recordings.

In addition to microphones, there are other accessories that can enhance your podcasting experience, such as headphones for monitoring audio, pop filters to reduce plosive sounds, and microphone stands for stability during recordings.

Selecting the Best Software and Apps for Recording and Editing Podcasts on Your Phone

Once you have the right hardware in place, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate software and apps to record and edit your podcast episodes on your phone. Here are some factors to consider when selecting podcasting software:

Comparison of Popular Podcasting Apps for iOS and Android

Both iOS and Android platforms offer a wide range of podcasting apps, each with its own set of features and functionalities. It’s important to explore different options and select an app that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Some popular podcasting apps for iOS include:

• GarageBand: This app is a versatile and comprehensive option for recording and editing audio on iOS devices. It offers a user-friendly interface and powerful editing capabilities, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

• Anchor: Anchor is a popular all-in-one podcasting app that allows you to record, edit, and distribute your podcast episodes directly from your phone. It offers features like background music, voice messages from listeners, and built-in monetization options.

For Android users, some noteworthy podcasting apps include:

• Spreaker Studio: Spreaker Studio provides a comprehensive set of tools for recording, editing, and broadcasting your podcast episodes. It offers live streaming capabilities and seamless integration with various podcasting platforms.

• Podcast Addict: Podcast Addict is a feature-rich app that allows you to subscribe to your favorite podcasts, manage your episode library, and record your own episodes. It supports various audio formats and offers customization options for a personalized podcasting experience.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Podcasting App

When selecting a podcasting app, keep the following features in mind:

1. Recording and Editing Capabilities: Ensure that the app provides easy-to-use recording and editing features, allowing you to trim, enhance, and mix your podcast episodes effortlessly.

2. Publishing and Distribution: Look for apps that offer seamless integration with popular podcast directories and hosting platforms, simplifying the process of publishing and distributing your episodes.

3. Remote Recording: If you plan on conducting interviews or remote discussions for your podcast, consider apps that offer remote recording capabilities, enabling you to record conversations with guests located in different locations.

4. Analytics and Insights: Some podcasting apps provide analytics and insights, allowing you to track your audience engagement, download statistics, and other metrics to measure the success of your podcast.

Remember to explore the features and functionalities of different apps, read user reviews, and consider your specific requirements before making a final decision.

Exploring Additional Tools for Enhancing the Podcasting Experience

In addition to the core equipment and software, there are other tools and resources that can enhance your podcasting experience. Here are a few worth considering:

1. Pop Filters and Windshields: Pop filters and windshields help reduce unwanted noise and disturbances caused by plosive sounds or wind. They can significantly improve the audio quality of your recordings.

2. Audio Editing Apps: While podcasting apps often provide basic editing features, you may want to explore dedicated audio editing apps for more advanced editing capabilities. Apps like Adobe Audition, Ferrite Recording Studio, or Audacity offer a wide range of editing tools and effects to refine your podcast episodes.

3. Music and Sound Effects Libraries: Adding music or sound effects to your podcast can enhance the overall listening experience. There are various royalty-free music libraries and sound effects websites available where you can find suitable tracks and effects for your episodes.

By carefully selecting the right equipment, software, and additional tools, you’ll be well on your way to creating high-quality podcast episodes on your phone. In the next section, we will delve into the planning and preparation phase, helping you define your podcast’s concept, structure, and target audience.

Planning and Preparing Your Podcast

Before diving into the recording and editing process, it is crucial to take the time to plan and prepare your podcast. This phase sets the foundation for your podcast’s success by helping you define your podcast’s concept, structure, and target audience. Let’s explore the key steps involved in planning and preparing your podcast on your phone.

Identifying Your Podcast Niche and Target Audience

To create a successful podcast, it’s essential to identify your podcast niche and define your target audience. A podcast niche refers to a specific topic or theme that your podcast will revolve around. Consider your interests, expertise, and what you are passionate about. Brainstorm various topics and narrow them down until you find a niche that excites you and aligns with your goals.

Once you have identified your niche, it’s time to define your target audience. Think about who will be interested in your podcast content. Consider demographics such as age, gender, profession, interests, and location. Understanding your target audience will help you tailor your content to their preferences and ensure that you create episodes that resonate with them.

Creating a Podcast Concept and Format

With your niche and target audience in mind, it’s time to develop your podcast concept and format. The podcast concept refers to the overarching idea or theme that your podcast will explore. It encapsulates the purpose, tone, and unique value proposition of your podcast. Brainstorm ideas that align with your niche, and consider how you can differentiate your podcast from others in the same space.

Next, determine the format of your podcast. Will it be a solo show where you share your thoughts and insights, an interview-style show where you invite guests, or a combination of both? Consider the pros and cons of different formats, and choose the one that best suits your niche, target audience, and personal style.

Deciding on Podcast Episodes and Content Structure

Once you have a clear concept and format, it’s time to decide on the structure of your podcast episodes. Consider the length of your episodes, the frequency of release, and the overall flow of each episode. Will there be segments or recurring features? Will you include listener Q&A or storytelling elements? Mapping out the structure of your episodes will provide a framework for your content creation and ensure consistency across episodes.

Additionally, brainstorm potential episode ideas within your chosen niche. Think about the topics, subtopics, or specific questions you want to address in each episode. Create a list of episode ideas that will engage your audience and provide value. Having a robust list of episode ideas will help you stay organized and ensure a steady stream of content for your podcast.

Outlining Your Podcast Episodes and Planning Scripts

With your episode ideas in hand, it’s time to outline each episode and plan your scripts. Outlining involves structuring the content of each episode, including the main points, subtopics, and any supporting information or examples. This outline will serve as a guide during the recording and editing process, ensuring that you cover all the essential elements of your episode.

Once you have the outline, you can start planning your scripts. Depending on your podcast format, you may need to write scripts for intros, outros, transitions, or any scripted segments. Scripts help maintain consistency, provide a professional tone, and ensure that you deliver your content effectively. While some podcasters prefer a more conversational approach, having a script as a reference can be helpful, especially for beginners.

Understanding the Importance of Branding and Artwork for Your Podcast

In addition to content planning, it’s crucial to consider the branding and artwork of your podcast. Your podcast’s branding includes elements such as the name, tagline, logo, and overall visual identity. It’s important to create a brand that reflects your podcast’s concept and resonates with your target audience. Spend time brainstorming and researching to develop a brand that stands out and aligns with your podcast’s goals.

Equally important is the artwork for your podcast. This includes the cover art that will be displayed on podcast directories and platforms. The cover art should be eye-catching, visually appealing, and communicate the essence of your podcast. If you’re not confident in your design skills, consider hiring a graphic designer or using online tools and templates to create professional-looking cover art.

By carefully planning and preparing your podcast, you lay a solid foundation for success. In the next section, we will delve into the technical aspects of recording and editing your podcast episodes on your phone.

Recording and Editing Your Podcast

With your podcast concept and planning in place, it’s time to dive into the technical aspects of recording and editing your podcast episodes on your phone. In this section, we will explore various tips and techniques to ensure high-quality audio recordings and efficient editing processes.

Tips for Achieving High-Quality Audio Recordings on Your Phone

Before we delve into the recording process, here are some tips to help you achieve high-quality audio recordings using your phone:

1. Find a Quiet Environment: Choose a quiet location for recording your podcast episodes to minimize background noise and distractions. Consider using soundproofing techniques like blankets or foam panels to improve the acoustics of your recording space.

2. Eliminate External Disturbances: Turn off notifications, alarms, and other potential sources of interruptions on your phone. Place your phone on silent mode or in airplane mode to avoid any unexpected disturbances during your recording sessions.

3. Use Headphones for Monitoring: Invest in a good pair of headphones to monitor your audio while recording. This allows you to catch any issues or inconsistencies in real-time and make necessary adjustments to improve the quality of your recordings.

4. Maintain Consistent Mic Placement: Whether you’re using the built-in microphone or an external one, maintain a consistent distance and angle to ensure consistent audio quality throughout your recordings. Experiment with different positions to find the optimal placement for capturing clear and balanced sound.

5. Speak Clearly and Confidently: Enunciate your words clearly and speak confidently to ensure that your voice is captured effectively. Avoid mumbling or speaking too softly, as it can result in poor audio quality and make it harder for your audience to follow along.

Step-by-Step Guide to Recording Your Podcast Episodes on Your Phone

Now that you’re prepared to record high-quality audio, let’s walk through a step-by-step guide to recording your podcast episodes on your phone:

1. Set Up Your Recording Space: Choose a location with minimal background noise and good acoustics. Ensure that your phone is fully charged or connected to a power source to avoid any interruptions during the recording process.

2. Open Your Podcasting App: Launch your chosen podcasting app on your phone and navigate to the recording section or interface. Familiarize yourself with the app’s features and settings, such as microphone selection, gain control, and input levels.

3. Adjust Microphone Settings: If your podcasting app allows for microphone selection or adjustments, choose the appropriate microphone and adjust the input levels or gain control to ensure optimal audio levels without distortion.

4. Test Your Audio Levels: Before starting the actual recording, perform a quick test recording to check the audio levels and make any necessary adjustments. Speak naturally and monitor the levels on the app’s interface or through headphones.

5. Start Recording: Once you’re satisfied with the audio levels, hit the record button and begin speaking. Remember to maintain a steady pace, speak clearly, and project your voice to ensure a consistent and engaging delivery.

6. Monitor Your Audio: Throughout the recording, keep an eye on the app’s audio levels or monitor your audio through headphones. Make any adjustments as needed to maintain consistent volume and audio quality.

7. Pause and Edit as Necessary: If you make a mistake or need to pause during the recording, simply pause the recording and resume when you’re ready. Remember, you can always edit out any errors or pauses during the editing process.

8. End the Recording: Once you’ve finished recording the episode, stop the recording in the app. Take a moment to review the recorded audio and ensure that it meets your expectations before moving on to the editing stage.

Editing Your Podcast Episodes Using Mobile Apps and Software

After the recording process is complete, it’s time to edit your podcast episodes to enhance the overall quality and ensure a smooth listening experience. Here are some basic editing techniques and steps to follow:

1. Import Your Recorded Audio: Open your podcasting app or audio editing software on your phone and import the recorded audio file of your episode. Familiarize yourself with the editing interface and tools available in the app.

2. Trimming and Cutting: Listen through your recording and identify any unnecessary parts, mistakes, or pauses that need to be removed. Use the trimming or cutting tools to eliminate those sections and create a seamless flow.

3. Adjusting Volume Levels: Ensure that the volume levels of your recording are consistent throughout the episode. Use the app’s built-in tools or features like normalization or compression to balance the audio levels and reduce any peaks or dips.

4. Enhancing Audio Quality: If needed, apply audio effects or filters to enhance the overall audio quality. Features like noise reduction, equalization, and de-essing can help improve clarity and reduce any unwanted background noise or distortion.

5. Adding Intros, Outros, and Transitions: Incorporate your podcast’s intro and outro segments using the editing tools in your app. You can also add transitions between different segments or episodes to create a professional and polished listening experience.

6. Incorporating Music and Sound Effects: If desired, include background music or sound effects to enhance your podcast episodes. Ensure that the music or sound effects are appropriately timed and do not overpower your voice.

7. Review and Export the Edited Episode: Once you’re satisfied with the editing, take some time to listen through the edited episode to ensure it meets your expectations. Export the final edited episode in the desired format, ready for publishing.

Remember, editing is a creative process, and it may take some time and practice to refine your skills. Experiment with different editing techniques and explore the features available in your chosen app to find your unique editing style.

By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to record high-quality audio and edit your podcast episodes effectively on your phone. In the next section, we will explore the publishing and promotion phase, where you’ll learn how to distribute your episodes and grow your podcast audience.

Publishing and Promoting Your Podcast

Congratulations on successfully recording and editing your podcast episodes on your phone! Now, it’s time to share your podcast with the world and attract an audience. In this section, we will explore the crucial steps involved in publishing and promoting your podcast.

Choosing a Podcast Hosting Platform for Distributing Your Episodes

To make your podcast accessible to listeners, you’ll need to choose a podcast hosting platform. A podcast hosting platform is a service that stores and distributes your podcast episodes to various podcast directories and platforms. Consider the following factors when selecting a hosting platform:

1. Storage and Bandwidth: Ensure that the hosting platform offers sufficient storage space for your episodes and adequate bandwidth to accommodate your audience’s downloads and streaming.

2. RSS Feed Generation: The hosting platform should generate an RSS feed for your podcast, which acts as the main source for podcast directories to fetch your episodes. The RSS feed should be automatically updated as you publish new episodes.

3. Distribution to Directories: Check if the hosting platform automatically submits your podcast to popular directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and others. This saves you time and effort in submitting your podcast manually.

4. Analytics and Insights: Look for hosting platforms that provide analytics and insights about your podcast’s performance. This can include information about downloads, listener demographics, and engagement metrics, helping you measure the success of your podcast.

Some popular podcast hosting platforms to consider are Libsyn, Podbean, Anchor, and Buzzsprout. Research and compare their features, pricing plans, and user reviews to find the platform that best fits your needs.

Creating Podcast Show Notes and Episode Descriptions

As you prepare to publish your podcast episodes, it’s crucial to create engaging show notes and episode descriptions. Show notes are written summaries of each episode that provide an overview of the content, key points, and any relevant links or resources mentioned. Episode descriptions are concise descriptions of the episode’s topic or theme.

When writing show notes and episode descriptions, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Be Concise Yet Informative: Show notes and episode descriptions should provide enough information to entice potential listeners while remaining concise. Use bullet points or short paragraphs to make the content scannable and easy to read.

2. Include Key Takeaways: Highlight the main takeaways or highlights from the episode, giving potential listeners a glimpse into the valuable content they can expect.

3. Use Keywords and SEO Best Practices: Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases in your show notes and episode descriptions to improve discoverability in search engines and podcast directories. This can help attract organic traffic and increase your podcast’s visibility.

4. Include Links and Resources: If you mention any resources or references in your episode, provide links in the show notes. This allows listeners to easily access additional information or follow up on topics discussed.

5. Add Calls-to-Action: Encourage listeners to subscribe, leave reviews, or engage with your podcast by including calls-to-action in your show notes and episode descriptions. This helps foster community engagement and grow your podcast’s audience.

Creating compelling show notes and episode descriptions is an essential part of promoting your podcast and enticing potential listeners. Take the time to craft engaging content that accurately represents your episode’s value and encourages listeners to hit the play button.

Submitting Your Podcast to Popular Directories and Platforms

Once you’ve created your show notes and episode descriptions, it’s time to submit your podcast to popular directories and platforms. These directories act as search engines for podcasts, allowing listeners to discover and subscribe to your podcast. Here are some key directories and platforms to consider:

1. Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts is one of the largest podcast directories, with a vast user base. Follow Apple’s podcast submission guidelines and use your podcast’s RSS feed to submit your podcast for inclusion.

2. Spotify: Spotify has emerged as a popular podcast platform, with millions of active users. Submitting your podcast to Spotify can help you reach a wider audience. Use Spotify’s podcast submission portal to submit your podcast for consideration.

3. Google Podcasts: Google Podcasts is Google’s dedicated podcast platform. Submitting your podcast to Google Podcasts can improve your podcast’s visibility in Google search results. Use Google Podcasts Manager or your hosting platform to submit your podcast.

4. Other Directories: Explore other podcast directories and platforms such as Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, and Overcast. Submit your podcast using their respective submission processes to expand your reach and attract diverse listeners.

Remember that it may take some time for your podcast to be approved and listed in each directory. Be patient and monitor the status of your submissions regularly.

Strategies for Promoting Your Podcast and Growing Your Audience

Publishing your podcast is just the first step. To grow your podcast’s audience and increase engagement, you’ll need to promote it effectively. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Utilize Social Media Platforms: Leverage social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to promote your podcast. Create engaging posts, share snippets or highlights from episodes, and encourage your audience to share and engage with your content.

2. Collaborate with Other Podcasters and Influencers: Partner with other podcasters or influencers in your niche to cross-promote each other’s podcasts. This can expand your reach and introduce your podcast to new audiences.

3. Leverage Email Marketing: Build an email list of subscribers who are interested in your podcast. Send regular newsletters or updates about new episodes, behind-the-scenes content, or exclusive offers to keep your audience engaged and encourage them to listen and share.

4. Guest Appearances on Other Podcasts: Seek opportunities to be a guest on other podcasts that cater to your target audience. This allows you to share your expertise, promote your podcast, and attract new listeners who resonate with your content.

5. Engage with Your Audience: Encourage your listeners to leave reviews and ratings on podcast directories. Respond to comments, messages, and emails from your audience to foster a sense of community and build relationships.

6. Cross-Promote on Your Blog or Website: If you have a blog or website, create dedicated podcast pages and embed episodes or show notes. This cross-promotion can attract your existing audience to your podcast and vice versa.

7. Attend Podcasting Events and Conferences: Participate in podcasting events, conferences, or local meetups to connect with other podcasters and potential listeners. Networking and building relationships within the podcasting community can lead to valuable collaborations and exposure.

Remember, promoting your podcast is an ongoing process. Continuously explore new promotional tactics, analyze your audience’s response, and adapt your strategies accordingly.

Analyzing Podcast Analytics and Adjusting Your Strategy for Success

To gauge the success of your podcast and understand your audience better, it’s essential to analyze podcast analytics. Most podcast hosting platforms provide analytics and insights that can help you measure the performance of your podcast. Some key metrics to monitor include:

1. Downloads and Listens: Track the number of downloads or listens for each episode to understand which topics or episodes resonate the most with your audience. Identify patterns and trends to inform your content creation strategy.

2. Geographic Distribution: Analyze the geographic distribution of your audience to identify regions where your podcast is popular. This can help you tailor your content or promotional efforts to specific locations.

3. Listener Demographics: Gain insights into your audience’s demographics, such as age, gender, and interests. This information can help you refine your target audience and create content that caters to their preferences.

4. Engagement Metrics: Monitor engagement metrics like average listening duration, episode completion rates, and subscriber growth. This data can help you understand how engaged your audience is and identify areas for improvement.

Use the analytics provided by your hosting platform to track these metrics and adjust your podcasting strategy accordingly. Experiment with different formats, topics, or promotional tactics based on the insights gathered from your analytics.

By strategically publishing and promoting your podcast, you can attract a loyal audience and establish your podcast as a valuable resource in your niche. In the final section, we will provide some concluding thoughts and additional resources to further support your podcasting journey.

Concluding Thoughts and Additional Resources

Congratulations on reaching the final section of this comprehensive guide on creating a podcast on your phone! By now, you have learned the essential steps involved in planning, recording, editing, publishing, and promoting your podcast. As you embark on your podcasting journey, here are some concluding thoughts and additional resources to further support your endeavors.

Creating a successful podcast requires dedication, consistency, and a passion for your chosen niche. It’s essential to continuously refine your skills, experiment with new ideas, and engage with your audience. Remember that podcasting is a dynamic and evolving medium, so stay open to learning and adapting as you progress.

To further enhance your podcasting experience and knowledge, here are some additional resources you may find valuable:

• Podcasting Books: Explore books on podcasting, such as “Podcasting For Dummies” by Tee Morris and Chuck Tomasi, “Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio” by Jessica Abel, or “The Business of Podcasting” by Donna Papacosta and Steve Lubetkin.

• Podcasting Communities and Forums: Join online communities and forums dedicated to podcasting, such as Reddit’s r/podcasting, Podcasters’ Paradise, or the Podcast Movement community. Engaging with fellow podcasters can provide valuable insights, support, and collaboration opportunities.

• Podcasting Courses and Workshops: Consider enrolling in online courses or workshops that offer in-depth training on various aspects of podcasting, such as content creation, audio production, or monetization strategies. Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Podcast Movement University offer a range of podcasting courses.

• Podcasting Conferences and Events: Attend podcasting conferences and events, both online and in-person, to network with industry professionals, learn from expert speakers, and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices. Podcast Movement, She Podcasts Live, and Podfest Expo are some prominent podcasting conferences.

Remember, building a successful podcast takes time, patience, and consistent effort. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges or setbacks. Stay committed to honing your craft, providing value to your audience, and connecting with fellow podcasters.

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