Google creates AI to unlock dolphin communication

In the United States, researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the Wild Dolphin Project (WDP) have collaborated with Google to explore dolphin communication using artificial intelligence. The project centers around the development of an innovative AI model, named DolphinGemma, which aims to decode the specific sounds made by dolphins. This endeavor began with the work done by WDP, which has recorded and studied dolphin sounds for approximately 40 years. They identified various sound types associated with particular behaviors, such as signature whistles used for mother-child reunions and burst pulse sounds heard during conflicts. The advancement of DolphinGemma is facilitated by Google's Pixel phone technology, known for its high-quality sound recording capabilities. By leveraging this technology, researchers can produce clear recordings, crucial for AI analysis. The clean data allows DolphinGemma to identify patterns and meanings in dolphin vocalizations more effectively than human analysis alone. As the research progresses, the model will categorize dolphin sounds similarly to how humans categorize language into words and phrases. The goal is not only to enhance understanding of dolphin communication but potentially to establish a shared vocabulary for future interactions between humans and dolphins. This shared language could allow for two-way communication, significantly enhancing the relationship between humans and these intelligent marine creatures. The project is set for an open release this summer, allowing researchers around the globe to adapt and utilize the model for studying different dolphin species beyond just the Atlantic spotted dolphins, which are its primary focus. Ultimately, this research could open new frontiers in marine biology and conservation efforts, as better communication with dolphins may improve understanding of their behaviors and ecology. By providing researchers worldwide with tools like DolphinGemma, Google hopes to accelerate the discovery of patterns in dolphin communication and deepen collective insights regarding these remarkable animals.