TECNO, a pioneering technology brand, collaborated with BBC StoryWorks, the commercial content division of BBC Studios, to unveil ‘Portrait for Everyone,’ a compelling short film. This film serves as a testament to TECNO Universal Tone technology’s transformative impact on multi-skin tone imaging.
The short film vividly demonstrates how this innovative technology redefines the way individuals are represented in photographs, ensuring inclusivity for all. Through insightful storytelling, the film features esteemed professors who collaborated with TECNO in developing Universal Tone, shedding light on the profound influence of this advanced technology.
TECNO Universal Tone stands out as an advanced AI-powered multi-skin tone imaging technology, meticulously designed to comprehend and capture the beauty across diverse skin tones worldwide. Jack Guo, the General Manager of TECNO, expressed the core mission of Universal Tone. He emphasized the goal of redefining portrait photography, transforming it into an inclusive and emotional experience. The aim is to ensure that every individual, regardless of their skin tone, feels acknowledged and embraced through the lens of this technology.
The ‘Portrait for Everyone’ film by TECNO, in collaboration with BBC StoryWorks, sheds light on the complexities of portrait imaging. Central to this innovation is TECNO’s Universal Tone technology, incorporating three essential engines: the Multi-Skin Tone Restoration Engine, Local-Tuning Engine, and AI-Powered Computational Portrait Engine. These components work cohesively to address challenges like overexposure and desaturation in representing diverse skin tones accurately.
TECNO’s initiative to combat historical biases in AI led to a partnership with Dr. Kaida Xiao, an associate professor in Colour and Imaging Science at the University of Leeds and TECNO Technical Advisor. Together, they developed an unbiased color card, ensuring advanced AI integration into TECNO’s camera system. This collaboration signifies a significant stride toward a more inclusive approach in technology and imaging, promising a future where accurate representation of diverse skin tones is the norm.
‘Portrait for Everyone’ explores the deep emotional significance of portraits, acknowledging their impact on individuals’ confidence and self-worth within their communities. Dr. Thomas Curran, a Professor of Psychological and Behavioral Science, emphasizes the importance of authenticity in these images.
TECNO’s Universal Tone technology not only caters to individual preferences but also ensures that portraits align naturally with their surroundings. This inclusivity extends to diverse cultural contexts, as highlighted by Jack Qiu, Shaw Foundation Professor of Media Technology at Nanyang Technological University and TECNO’s Advisor on Asian Skin Tone and Portrait Aesthetic. The technology enhances TECNO’s camera capabilities, allowing portraits to authentically reflect and celebrate their cultural origins.
Every face carries a unique story, and every culture has its distinct identity. TECNO’s initiative, ‘Portrait for Everyone,’ emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity. The focus is on inclusivity, customer needs, and a global approach. By encouraging the use of a Universal Tone, TECNO provides a platform where authenticity and individuality can truly shine.
About TECNO:
TECNO is a leading technology brand operating in more than 70 countries across five continents. The brand has earned recognition as an industry leader, offering a diverse range of products including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, HiOS operating systems, and smart home devices. Guided by their ethos, “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO is dedicated to bringing the latest technologies to forward-thinking individuals.
