Baidu (HKG:9888) is applying for a Chinese patent for its system that purports to convert animal sounds into human speech using artificial intelligence, Reuters reported Thursday.

The patent is the latest attempt by scientists who have long tried to decipher animal communication, the report said.

The product is still in research phase, the report said, citing a spokesperson for the AI company.

Shares slipped 1% during Friday afternoon trading.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)