Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) may soon allow pet owners to converse with their furry companions, according to Dr Jess French, a renowned TV vet. Dr French, who hosts the popular show Minibeast Adventure on CBeebies, believes that AI technology will be able to translate animal sounds, enabling animals to communicate with humans. She envisions a future where veterinarians can directly communicate with dogs through innovative technology, eliminating the need for conversations with caregivers.
However, Dr French cautions that this reality is still a distant prospect, emphasizing that we are currently in the early stages of listening and collecting data on animal communication. Animals do not solely rely on sounds to communicate, and researchers are analyzing various forms of animal communication to better understand their behavior.
While some suggest playing back recorded animal sounds to observe their responses, Dr French warns against this practice, deeming it potentially dangerous. She draws attention to the risk of spreading misinformation among animals, likening it to the concept of “whale fake news.” Dr French’s concerns stem from the fact that whales can transmit messages across vast distances, potentially leading to the dissemination of inaccurate information.
Recent developments in AI translation technology have shown promise in decoding dog barks and identifying different emotional tones across various breeds. Researchers in Mexico have made significant strides in this area, sparking excitement among the scientific community.