This week brought exciting updates on how artificial intelligence is changing farming worldwide. At the World FIRA 2025 event in France, companies displayed advanced farming robots and AI tools. Highlights included self-driving tractors, drones that check soil health, and robots that can spot tiny weeds in fields. However, farmers at the event shared concerns that many of these tools are still prototypes and not yet affordable or reliable enough for everyday use.

In the United States, researchers at the University of Illinois released a report showing how AI supports sustainable farming. Their studies found that AI-powered sensors can measure soil moisture and nutrients, helping farmers water crops more efficiently. Robot harvesters equipped with computer vision can also pick only ripe vegetables, reducing waste. The report emphasized that these technologies could help grow more food without expanding farmland or harming ecosystems.

Despite progress, challenges remain in making AI tools accessible to all farmers. The Illinois report noted that small-scale farms often lack the money or technical skills to use advanced systems. Similarly, farmers in France mentioned that many AI solutions work best in controlled environments but struggle with real-world problems like muddy fields or changing weather.

Efforts are underway to bridge this gap. Startups and universities are developing simpler AI apps that work on smartphones. These apps provide weather alerts, pest control tips, and crop planning advice tailored to small farms. Experts believe combining traditional farming knowledge with these new tools will be key to creating a resilient global food system.