Carbon Robotics raises $20M for secretive new AI farm robot

Carbon Robotics has secured $20 million in funding to develop a secretive new AI-powered farm robot, building on the success of its LaserWeeder technology that uses precision lasers for chemical-free weed control. This investment signals growing confidence in agricultural robotics as a solution to labor shortages and environmental concerns, positioning the Seattle-based company to expand beyond weed management into broader autonomous farming applications.

What you should know: The funding will support manufacturing expansion and development of innovative hardware that could tackle diverse farm tasks beyond the company’s current weed control focus.
• Carbon Robotics has evolved rapidly since its 2018 founding, becoming a key player in precision agriculture with its AI-driven LaserWeeder technology.
• The company previously raised $70 million in 2024, which enabled the launch of the upgraded LaserWeeder G2 in February 2025.
• While details about the new robot remain confidential, industry insiders speculate it could address harvesting, planting, or other labor-intensive agricultural operations.

How the technology works: The LaserWeeder uses AI deep learning, computer vision, and high-powered lasers to distinguish crops from weeds with remarkable precision.
• The G2 model employs 36 high-resolution cameras and NVIDIA chips to detect and eliminate up to 600,000 weeds per hour.
• The system uses thermal energy instead of chemicals, preventing the use of over 100,000 gallons of herbicides across 230,000 acres.
• Farmers report cost reductions of up to 80% for weed control while experiencing increased crop yields.

Market impact: The technology is gaining traction among farmers seeking sustainable and cost-effective solutions for crop management.
• Rio Farms has successfully deployed the LaserWeeder G2 for peppers and celery, cutting costs and improving profitability.
• The chemical-free approach preserves soil health and aligns with global trends toward environmentally friendly farming practices.
• Carbon Robotics earned recognition on the 2025 CNBC Disruptor 50 list for its machine learning-driven approach to specialty crop management.

Industry implications: The rise of AI in agriculture extends far beyond weed control, with robotics transforming farming into a data-centric sector.
• Labor shortages in agriculture create significant opportunities for autonomous farming solutions.
• High initial costs and farmer training requirements remain challenges for widespread adoption.
• The technology contributes to reduced waste and higher efficiency amid mounting climate pressures on agricultural production.

What they’re saying: Industry experts view AI robotics as essential for sustainable food production in a growing world, though ethical considerations around job displacement persist.