The AI in Ag Conference at Mississippi State University brought together experts from March 31 to April 2 to discuss self-driving farm equipment and computer systems that can predict crop yields. Farmers learned about spray drones that work without pilots and supercomputers that help solve food shortage problems. University leaders emphasized that AI tools will help grow more food without needing more farmland.

In Australia, scientists at CSIRO unveiled their MAGDA++ platform that uses artificial intelligence to create better plant-based meats. This system can predict how different pea and bean blends will taste and look when cooked, helping companies make burger alternatives that sizzle like real beef. The technology also helps farmers grow protein-rich crops using less fertilizer.

Researchers in Ohio demonstrated AI drones that take infrared pictures of fields to show exactly which plants need water or medicine. These flying robots help farmers care for crops like a doctor checks patients, spotting problems early through temperature changes in leaves. The system uses powerful computers to analyze thousands of farm photos daily, giving growers same-day reports.

The Davidson Prize awards honored Phytech's AI Irrigation Advisor, an Israeli system that tells farmers exactly when and where to water crops. Using soil sensors and weather data, it reduces water use by up to 30% while keeping plants healthy. Other winners included self-driving grain carts and hay balers that work without human drivers.

Beijing's World Irrigation Expo featured robot tractors from 33 countries that can plow fields using satellite maps. Chinese companies displayed soil sensors that send text alerts when crops need nutrients, while European firms showed apple-picking robots that learn to handle fruit gently. Over 15,000 buyers attended to see these AI farming tools in action.

In a surprising twist, biotech company Evogene revealed they're using farm AI technology originally made for crops to discover new medicines. Their system, which first helped grow disease-resistant corn, is now analyzing chemical compounds to find better cancer treatments faster than old methods. This shows how agriculture tech can spark breakthroughs in other fields.