Mechanization & Robotics: AI-assisted international press reviewPress review

Brazil: GeoIA Launches Precision Agriculture Platform Reducing Pesticide Use by 82%

At Agrishow 2026, GeoIA unveiled a precision agriculture platform that leverages artificial intelligence to cut pesticide usage by up to 82.29%. Developed by the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, this technology combines high-resolution aerial imagery with deep learning models to map crops. It enables targeted pesticide application, replacing uniform spraying with a precision spraying system.

Brazil: Biojet Partners with AGCO to Exclusively Deploy Localized Biological Input Injection Systems

Brazilian company Biojet has signed a strategic agreement with AGCO (an American group specializing in agricultural machinery), granting it exclusivity for the supply of in-furrow spraying systems for biological inputs. This partnership, announced at Agrishow 2026, aims to meet the growing demand for sustainable nutrition solutions while expanding Biojet's operational scale through the approval of its BJ 1000L sprayer on the Momentum platform and opening distribution channels for other innovative technologies.

Materials That Can Memorize and React: A Step Towards Mechanical Intelligence

Researchers from EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), AMOLF (a Dutch research institute based in Amsterdam), and Leiden University have developed a rotating platform capable of programming mechanical materials using centrifugal forces. Named "dynamic driving," this approach allows elastic structures to switch between two stable states to store information in the form of "mechanical bits." This advancement opens new perspectives for soft robotics, biomedical devices, and intelligent systems without embedded electronics.

Towards Optimized Application of Biopesticides: Impact of Nozzles and Droplet Size on Microbial Efficacy

A study evaluated the foliar application of biopesticides by analyzing the droplet sizes produced during spraying. The range of 100 to 300 μm, deemed optimal for leaf penetration and microorganism viability, was examined based on different types of hydraulic nozzles and application pressures. Results show that these parameters significantly influence droplet distribution. Despite slight variations from water, biological solutions remain suitable for effective foliar application with conventional equipment.

Laser Weeding: Carbon Robotics Unveils a New Generation of Lighter, Modular AI Robots

At Macfrut 2026, Carbon Robotics launched the LaserWeeder G2 series, marking a breakthrough in weed control through artificial intelligence and laser technology. This modular platform adapts to farms ranging from 30 to 300 hectares. It employs a 240-watt laser and high-resolution cameras for precise plant identification. The technology has already treated over 250,000 acres, eliminating more than 15 billion weeds, demonstrating its scalability.

UV-C in Agriculture: Kubota Invests in UV Boosting to Cut Fungicide Use

Kubota strengthens its commitment to agricultural sustainability by investing in UV Boosting, a French startup that uses UV-C flashes to enhance crops' natural defenses. This technology promises to reduce fungicide use by 25% to 75% and improve plant resistance to abiotic stress while increasing yields. It is being applied to various crops (grapes, peaches, and other fruits and vegetables) across several European countries.

Biology, Robotics, AI: Deep Tech Establishes Itself in Global Agriculture

Precision Agriculture: China Dominates Patent Filings, but Quality Raises Concerns

In 2024, China significantly outpaced other countries in precision agriculture patents, with 66,095 filings, accounting for 63% of the global total. Only 247 were granted, resulting in a conversion rate of 0.4%, raising questions about the quality of these innovations. South Korea, with a grant rate of 43.1%, emerges as a serious competitor, while giants Deere and CNH Industrial continue to dominate the market with grant rates of 30.1% and 34.3%, respectively.

Greenhouse Horticulture: Towards Data-Driven and Robotic Production

In greenhouse cultivation, genetics is no longer just about improving yields; it has become a lever for industrial optimization. By leveraging data and varietal selection, Rijk Zwaan develops plants designed for more predictable production systems, less reliant on labor, and compatible with the automation and robotization of greenhouses.

John Deere and CNH Shape Autonomous Agriculture Through Strategic Acquisitions