AI tool could use photographs to predict harvests, researchers say

A new AI system could be used to predict fruit harvests, researchers say (Gareth Fuller/PA)

A new artificial intelligence (AI) system that counts flowers on fruit trees could help farmers boost crop yields and reduce waste, researchers have announced.

The system, developed by researchers at the National Robotarium in Edinburgh, can accurately estimate the number of flowers on fruit trees from photos taken by a standard smartphone, by recognising patterns and features, such as the edges and shapes of petals.