Microsoft financially supported the development of the app.

Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), along with other organizations, has funded the development of the SeaSpotter app, which uses AI to identify and report endangered marine species in New Zealand. These include whales, dolphins and seals. (RESELLER NEWS)

The SeaSpotter app, developed by the Aware Group and launched by non-profit MAUI63, allows anyone to take and upload a photo of a marine animal, which researchers can then use AI to identify through a new field called “imageomics.”

Imageomics is a new scientific field in which computational (machine learning) tools built around biological knowledge bases are used by biologists to analyze image data in order to characterize patterns and gain insights into traits and relationships at individual, population and species scales.

Founded in 2016, Aware is a leader in emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, Modern Data Platforms, Advanced Robotics, and more, and is an innovation partner to Microsoft. Its Aware AI platform, has grown rapidly and consistently at 80% plus a year in a competitive global market historically dominated by large internationally owned consultancies.

The support by Microsoft came in the form of a grant from its global AI for Good program which is aimed to assist efforts that use AI to benefit the earth’s environment.

New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), Department of Conservation (DoC), World Wildlife Fund (WWF)and Christchurch City Council also provided finance and expertise.

“One of the unique aspects of this project is the data will be publicly accessible as a rich source of learning for curious scientific minds, innovators, conservationists, industry, and policy makers,” said van der Boon, co-founder of MAUI63.

Now tourists, beach visitors, whale-watchers on boats, commercial fishers, in fact anyone, can now snap a picture and upload it to the app. AI can then identify the species of the animal, or even its individual identity.

The data collected through the app will be publicly accessible to inform conservation efforts.

The app is available for download on Apple and Google Play.

Related Story:  Study Finds AI-Enabled Drones Can Reliably Detect Sharks Near Beaches