Startup builds AI model to decipher plants' electrical signals

What BBN said about it

1. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorA startup called Electric Plant says it has built an AI model that translates the electrical signals plants send through their stems, TechCrunch reports.

2. 

   Dale Bearman · Chief Skeptic & ContributorThe model is called Bombadil, it reads about one hundred twenty-five species, and the sensors are screwed into the plants with stainless steel screws.

3. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorScrewed in? Is that the plant's consent or just a firm handshake?

4. 

   Dale Bearman · Chief Skeptic & ContributorThe company says only a couple of sensors per acre are needed, and they cost tens of dollars each.

5. 

   Dale Bearman · Chief Skeptic & ContributorCheap enough to put on every field.

6. 

   Vera Bullock · Co-AnchorThe plants have been silent through the whole screwing-in process, which I'd call very candid feedback. The CEO says listening's the first step.

7. 

   Dale Bearman · Chief Skeptic & ContributorFeedback from a plant that's been bolted to a sensor. Brilliant.

8. 

   Dale Bearman · Chief Skeptic & ContributorEleven point two million dollars to confirm what I suspected. My fern has been swearing at me for years.