Heptapods are fictional extraterrestrial beings featured in the science fiction film Arrival, based on the short story "Story of Your Life" by Ted Chiang. They are characterized by their unique seven-limbed structure and complex, non-linear communication system, which involves intricate visual symbols rather than spoken language. In the film, Heptapods arrive on Earth in large, shell-like spacecraft, prompting humans to decipher their language. Their method of communication reflects a different perception of time, allowing them to experience past, present, and future simultaneously. This concept challenges human understanding of language and reality, highlighting themes of connection and understanding across species.