Tecno has launched the #ToneProud campaign to tackle skin tone bias in imaging technology.
Through this initiative, Tecno aims to promote greater awareness of skin tone diversity and introduce its extensive 268-skin-tone database to consumers. With a focus on inclusivity, the campaign builds on Tecno’s Universal Skin Tone technology, introduced last year to improve how skin tones are represented in photos.
In a press release, Tecno emphasized the role that technology and AI play in shaping perceptions and questioned if smartphones capture “the full spectrum and beauty of human diversity, especially in often-overlooked emerging markets.”
A 2018 study by MIT and Stanford University revealed skin tone bias in some commercial AI systems, highlighting the need for accurate data collection and scientific measurement to improve diversity in imaging technology.
The #ToneProud campaign uses a unique approach, assigning specific color codes to various skin tones to represent each one precisely. Tecno has invited users worldwide to participate and has enlisted celebrities from key markets, including Indonesian singer-songwriter Anggun, Saudi Arabian filmmaker Fatima Al-Banawi, Nigerian singer Johnny Drille, and Polish actress Ewa Kepys, to amplify the message.
Working with color science experts, Tecno’s Universal Tone system is designed to detect, analyze, and render a diverse range of skin tones accurately.
Tecno says that this campaign is for everyone, allowing anyone to find and submit their skin tone on 268toneproud.com. Users can use their smartphone’s front camera to discover their skin tone in a hex triplet format. All images submitted through the #ToneProud website will be added to Tecno’s database, enhancing its AI-driven skin tone software over time.
Folks over at gsmarena tried it out. Here is what it looks like.