John Deere is testing a new “JD” AI assistant that it says can help farmers make more money, with answers about best practices and historical trends that are based on their own data. It uses their “field, machine and operational data” to answer questions on topics like equipment settings, fuel usage, or harvest timing.
The press release didn’t mention which AI technology is behind this platform. But after fighting with farmers and the FTC for years over the right to repair, the news of Early Access Program testing for this bot comes with a mention of its 10-point Farmer Data Commitment saying it won’t sell the data, and lets farmers control third-party sharing:
1. You control your farm data.
2. John Deere does not sell your farm data.
3. John Deere uses your farm data only as described in its agreements and policies and willcommunicate changes clearly before they take effect.
4. John Deere will require dealers and connected partners to maintain transparent data practices.
5. John Deere uses your farm data and aggregated, anonymized data to deliver measurable value to you through improved machine performance and decision-making insights.
6. You can choose which third parties to share, and not share, your farm data with.
7. You have the freedom to turn off the flow of your farm data to third parties at any time.
8. John Deere does not use your farm data for agriculture commodity trading or speculation.
9. You should receive clear value from your farm data.
10. John Deere will continue to listen to farmers, strengthen its data practices, and develop new solutions that help you receive value from your farm data.
This AI bot is popping up for “select” US customers in the John Deere Operations Center, with plans to roll out more broadly on the web, mobile, and eventually to in-cab displays on tractors and other farm equipment. The company also says it plans to expand the AI assistant with “capabilities tailored to customers across turf, construction, roadbuilding, and forestry.”
