Khanyisa is a virtual Temminck's pangolin, created by Habitat XR, an immersive media studio in Johannesburg that specializes in virtual, augmented and mixed reality storytelling for conservation, education and social impact.
This AI-powered cute little creature speaks South Africa's eleven official languages, answers questions, reacts realistically and ultimately highlights the threats facing the world's most trafficked mammal, which is poached primarily for its meat and scales.
Developed in collaboration with wildlife experts, the 'Wild Voices' augmented reality app accurately captures the species' behavior and biology while encouraging respectful interactions.
Reporter Marize de Klerk finds out how this combination of immersive technology and conservation helps inspire empathy, raise awareness and protect endangered wildlife.