In a world where technology and AI shapes perceptions, are smartphones truly capturing the full spectrum and beauty of human diversity, especially in often-overlooked emerging markets?
Today, TECNO gave its response to this question with the launch of its #ToneProud campaign.
A study in 2018 from MIT and Stanford University made a worrying find: The existence of skin-type bias in some commercial artificial intelligence systems.
This bias is particularly concerning in the era of AI-driven imaging technology. Understanding and addressing these skin tone algorithmic biases through scientific data collection and innovative measurement is crucial for fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.
With the firm belief that imaging technologies should be free from bias, with every skin tone deserving fair representation as a vital aspect of human diversity, TECNO is launching the #ToneProud campaign.
The campaign aims to raise awareness about skin tone diversity while introducing TECNO’s unique 268 skin tone database to consumers.
By assigning specific color codes to different skin tones with scientific classification, TECNO aims to address biases in skin tone color restoration and fine tuning the accuracy of its Universal Tone technology for fair representation.
It also aims to help consumers understand and feel proud in the diversity of skin tones worldwide, encouraging them to take a stand against the lack of true representation.
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The #ToneProud Campaign – Standing Up for Equal Representation
The #ToneProud campaign is supported and joined by global celebrities of diverse skin tones, including Indonesian-born singer-songwriter Anggun, Saudi Arabian filmmaker and actress Fatima Al-Banawi, Nigerian singer-songwriter Johnny Drille and Polish actress Ewa Kępys.
In a film exploring the subject of being #ToneProud released to mark the start of the campaign, the celebrities share their experiences of having their skin tones misrepresented, and their belief that technology should support diverse skin tones and true color.
Reflecting on her experiences of having her skin tone misrepresented, Anggun says: “I think, sometimes, you just need to be reminded that we’re all individuals and we’re all beautiful in our way.” She also noted that #ToneProud campaign is not just a campaign, but a call for more accurate representation of people’s true skin tone, and a reminder that we should all celebrate the beauty of human diversity.