The most followed pig on Instagram is catching the attention of more than just social media users. Merlin the pig communicates with buttons, using a system of labeled pads to express needs, emotions, and even complex thoughts. His ability to «speak» through technology has gone viral, amassing millions of views and sparking global interest in animal cognition and human-animal communication. Merlin’s unique method involves pressing buttons that correspond to specific words or phrases, allowing him to form simple sentences. This form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), adapted for animals, has drawn attention from researchers and technologists alike, highlighting innovative applications of interface design beyond human use. His online presence continues to grow, with followers fascinated by his interactions and the apparent depth of his communication. As videos of Merlin using his button board circulate across platforms, they raise questions about the potential for technology to bridge understanding between species. The recognition he has received underscores how digital tools can reveal unexpected capabilities in animals, challenging assumptions about intelligence and expression. Merlin’s story is not just about a pig going viral—it’s about how technology can uncover recent ways of connecting with the natural world.
