Monday, September 03, 2012

iPads for animals?

The rise of tablet computers is so phenomenal that human beings are not the only ones who are using it. As part of a program known as Apps for Apes (what a silly name), twelve zoos from America and Canada are making use of iPad apps to teach orangutans.

It was evident that these primates have similar behavioural patterns to humans. The orangutans like stroking the screen  and even watching videos containing their own species. Apps utilized by zookeepers include memory games and Doodle Buddy. (Wow, amazing!)

It's been said that zookeepers are checking out how communication applications can assist animals in expressing themselves in a clearer manner. Like if an animal is hungry, it can use its hand, feet, tongue or whatever appropriate body part to tap on the iPad to inform people.

There is further indication that animals are hooked on spending time with tablet computers as an enthusiastic but armless orangutan from Florida was reported to be using the iPad with her feet. Will humans ever get so extreme? Maybe.

Not bad. In this world, some people do not even have access to basic communication devices like telephones and here we are letting animals have the luxury of playing with an iPad. What the heck is happening to the world?

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