TECNO, an innovative technology brand, has announced a partnership with the University of Leeds in the UK and Dar Al-Hekma University in Saudi Arabia to conduct research aimed at accurately representing Saudi consumers in mobile imaging. This collaboration is set to enhance TECNO's Universal Tone technology, reinforcing its leadership in inclusive smartphone imaging and promoting diversity in skin tones.
Launched in 2023, TECNO’s AI-driven Universal Tone technology is pioneering advancements in mobile imaging for multiple skin tones, authentically reflecting the rich diversity of humanity, particularly in emerging markets. The goal of this partnership is to broaden the skin tone database for Saudi consumers, improving the Universal Tone algorithm to ensure that TECNO devices deliver more inclusive and precise representations of the varied skin tones present in Saudi Arabia. The research initiative will eventually extend to other Middle Eastern nations, facilitating a wider and more accurate representation of skin tones throughout the region.
The research team is led by Professor Kaida Xiao, Technical Advisor for TECNO ColourScience of Skintone Image Technology and a professor in Colour and Imaging Science at the University of Leeds. He is joined by Professor Ahmed Nasseraldin, Assistant Professor at Dar Al-Hekma University, who contributes essential expertise and insights into the Saudi market.
This collaboration focuses on creating a comprehensive skin tone database specifically for Saudi consumers. By gathering and analyzing a diverse range of skin tones from the region, TECNO aims to establish a localized database that enhances the accuracy and authenticity of its imaging technology, refining the Universal Tone technology to better reflect and accommodate the unique complexions found in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.
TECNO is set to enhance its data collection efforts by introducing new skin tone patches, which will expand its existing global database of 268 patches. These new additions will be tailored specifically for the Saudi market, ensuring that TECNO’s devices accurately represent the region's diverse skin tones. Furthermore, TECNO will refine its image processing algorithms to address the distinct characteristics of Saudi skin tones, thereby offering users a more authentic and precise mobile imaging experience.
It’s a global priority for mobile imaging technologies to capture the diverse skin tones, especially in emerging markets like Saudi Arabia. We are excited to collaborate with TECNO to explore and better understand Saudi skin tones by developing a dedicated Saudi skin tone color card with over 30 new patches. This initiative ensures that Saudi and Middle Eastern consumers are authentically represented on their devices.
– Professor Kaida Xiao, Technical Advisor, TECNO ColourScience of Skintone Image Technology and Professor in Colour and Imaging Science in the School of Design at the University of Leeds
Understanding the cultural nuances and skin tone representation preferences in Saudi Arabia is essential to the success of this project. The region’s skin tones, reflect its unique identity, and TECNO’s efforts to capture this are highly commendable.
– Professor Ahmed Nasseraldin, Assistant Professor, Dar Al-Hekma University
Saudi Arabia's array of skin tones, ranging from light and medium to olive and deep brown, reflects its rich cultural heritage and the broader diversity found throughout the Middle East. Acknowledging this, TECNO has made Saudi Arabia the centerpiece of its research initiatives, utilizing the insights gained to foster advancements in inclusive imaging technology that cater to both Saudi consumers and the larger Middle Eastern audience.
TECNO's "Glocalization" approach focuses on tailoring global technological advancements to suit regional demands. Since the introduction of Universal Tone, TECNO has prioritized collaborations with leading academic institutions to tackle diverse imaging needs on a global scale.
This initiative marks TECNO's second partnership with the University of Leeds, following their initial collaboration in 2023 aimed at establishing a worldwide standard for inclusive imaging. Additionally, TECNO has engaged with NTU Singapore to investigate aesthetic preferences in Southeast Asia.
Recently, TECNO's commitment to enhancing the accuracy and inclusivity of mobile imaging, as well as celebrating skin tone diversity, was showcased in its successful #ToneProud campaign launched in November. This campaign highlighted Universal Tone's comprehensive 268-skin tone patch color card, which is based on the industry's largest and most precise skin tone database. The continuously growing database underscores TECNO's commitment to users in emerging markets like Saudi Arabia, empowering individuals globally to embrace and celebrate their natural skin tone beauty.
Refining Universal Tone technology for the Saudi market is a key step in our mission to set a global standard for inclusive imaging. Partnering with leading local institutions ensures that our advancements in technology are genuinely aligned with the needs of local consumers. TECNO is committed to continuing partnerships with universities around the world to deliver an inclusive and accurate mobile imaging experience that reflects the beauty of diversity.
– Jack Guo, General Manager, TECNO
Universal Tone embodies TECNO's dedication to inclusivity and innovation, aiming to transform the visual experience for 6.82 billion consumers in emerging markets. This initiative aligns with the brand's philosophy of "Stop At Nothing." Through ongoing advancements in imaging technologies, TECNO is creating a future where every person, irrespective of their skin tone, can see themselves authentically represented.