The animal internet emerges

Researchers are giving animals agency to start online interactions: dogs trigger video calls by shaking a sensor ball and parrots tap custom touchscreens to ring specific bird friends. In trials, 26 parrots used the system for up to three hours a day with five‑minute calls, and owners reported happier birds. Zoos are also letting monkeys and lemurs trigger soothing sounds, scents, or videos on demand. — If animals can choose digital companionship, society must set norms for welfare, 'consent' proxies, data governance, and commercialization in a growing pet-tech ecosystem.