Blooming Algorithms: AI Revolutionizes Fruit Farming

Researchers from Chile, Spain, and the UK's National Robotarium have developed an AI algorithm capable of counting flowers on fruit trees using smartphone images.

This breakthrough could significantly enhance crop yield predictions, allowing farmers to allocate resources more efficiently. By predicting harvest sizes months in advance, the AI aims to cut water waste and boost productivity.

Currently, manual yield estimation methods have a high error margin, typically ranging from 50% to 70%. In contrast, this AI system achieved 90% accuracy during tests in a Spanish orchard. The technology identifies unique flower patterns, even when they overlap or are partially hidden. If successful, this AI could be adapted for other crops like apples, pears, and cherries, marking a significant leap towards more sustainable and efficient farming.

Is this the future of agriculture, where AI not only predicts but optimizes our food supply?

Read the full article on The Next Web.

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