As climate change continues to become a widespread issue, many small farmers face crop disasters and decreased production. Thanks to the spread of digital connectivity in rural areas, farmers in these areas can leverage their smartphones as a tool to access data on crops, water and soil. This new technology helps small farmers who are most vulnerable to climate change keep a close eye on their production. Smartphones and farming apps are emerging as main farming tools, replacing the traditional sickle and hoe.

Roughly 94% of farmers use mobile phones. By empowering farmers to utilize these minicomputers, they can access valuable information and resources at the touch of a button. Farmers have everything they need at their fingertips. Gone are the days of scribbling facts and figures on crumpled up pieces of paper. Smartphones are strengthening the agricultural production of small-scale and rural farmers through access to financial tools and innovative farming techniques.

Developers throughout the world are creating mobile apps that enable farmers to take better control of their crops and farms. There are smart greenhouses in China’s Jiangxi province that use mobile phones to control watering and fertilizing. Perforated plastic pipes have sensors that can monitor temperature, air humidity, and mineral and water content of the soil. Bihar Agriculture University has created a unique mobile app to help farmers in India better maintain their crops and understand potential issues before they arise. Farmers can connect with each other to discuss innovative techniques and provide nutrients for specific plants, among a host of other topics.

Farmers are always looking to improve their production and farming techniques through innovative and efficient methods. By allowing information to flow seamlessly through smartphones and mobile apps, farmers can control application systems through their smartphone.