“Brother, Can You Spare Two Dimes?” is a 1992 episode of the Simpsons where Homer’s half-brother Herb creates a baby translator and makes a fortune. Well, it only took 24 years, but it seems that real world technology has finally caught up to Springfield’s first family. However, it’s not babies that are getting this treatment, but the “kings and queens of the internet” themselves. I am of course talking about cats.
First found by Laughing Squid, the Temptations Lab, which is part of Temptation Cat Treats, created a translator that fits like a collar around a cat’s neck. It derives from the idea that cats only meow as a way to communicate with humans. By using different techniques for analyzing cat sounds, the Temptation Lab seems to have created an algorithm that can match the frequencies and tone of each sound with a human phrase (I assume it’s an algorithm of some sort). You can then sync the collar to an app on your phone where you can choose what voice you would like your favorite feline to have. Check out some of the videos below for examples.
Now I have scoured the site from top to bottom and find no evidence that this is some sort of belated April Fool’s prank, so we’re just going to hope it’s real. And even still, what’s wrong with having a little fun once in awhile? Is this what your cat is REALLY saying? Maybe not. But is it a silly way to have fun with your furry best friend? Definitely. Regardless, I approve of fun.
So what do you think? Are you going to be first in line when the Catterbox becomes available for sale, if it ever does? Have we been duped (there are a lot WORSE things to be duped by, to be honest)? Let me know on Twitter, or have your cat voice his or her opinion on this in the comments below.
