Social Media Digest

Fleeting companions

Instead of the usual image of cats curled up on laps, some young people in China are choosing crabs, praying mantises, and hamsters as pets.

Referred to as "short-lived pets" by netizens due to their brief life spans and minimal care requirements, these creatures resonate with busy urbanites seeking companionship without the time and energy demands of traditional pets like cats and dogs.

Despite their simplicity, these low-maintenance companions offer fleeting yet meaningful connections, providing a gentle escape from monotony and a source of tranquillity in daily life.

"When we feel lonely, we may resort to impulsive spending. But caring for a short-lived pet offers a more soothing remedy for solitude," a netizen told Sanlian Life Weekly, a media outlet in China.

Beyond addressing feelings of isolation, adopting short-lived pets also encourages a more mindful approach to life. "One might gradually come to accept that change is a natural part of life, or recognize that some things unfold at their own pace without the need for interference," another netizen shared.

While these pets may only be around for a short time, that doesn't stop people from forming real connections with them. For many, it's less about long-term commitment and more about enjoying the moment.

AI-poured art

Latte art, a cherished pastime among young enthusiasts yet challenging to master, is undergoing a technological makeover.

No longer limited to the steady hand of a skilled barista, robots are now bringing new precision and flair to this creative craft — transforming steamed milk into intricate swan patterns, personalized corporate logos, and culturally inspired designs like Terracotta Warrior portraits.

This innovation took center stage at the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo in Haikou, capital of South China's Hainan province, where AI-powered coffee machines captivated attendees by grinding beans, brewing, and pouring with remarkable accuracy.

Through the use of high-precision robotic arms and motion-capture technology, consumers could indulge in a customized cup of coffee with varying temperatures, selecting flavors through a touch screen interface within two minutes. This entire process operated without the need for human intervention.

This technological advancement transcends the realm of coffee craftsmanship. The applications for collaborative robots are expanding to include bar-tending, ice cream production, and noodle-making robots. This not only highlights the rapid progress of China's robotics technology but also unveils the limitless possibilities of intelligent robots seamlessly integrating into daily life.

"This synergy optimizes both productivity and workforce potential," said Han Yongguang, president of Aubo, a Beijing-based robotics company, in an interview with CCTV. "Let humans focus on what they excel at — creativity and service — while robots handle precision tasks."