Apes get iPads at US National Zoo

"It's about changing up the day-to-day lives of our animals," Becky Malinsky, a keeper at the Smithsonian's National Zoo, said.

"We already vary their food, toys and social interactions every day, but the iPad offers another way to engage their sight, touch and hearing," Malinsky said.

The apes are using 10 different apps, including cognitive games, drawing programs and ones that feature virtual musical instruments, 'LiveScience' reported.

Some of the orangutans are already showing their preferences