It’s been a decade since the smartphone revolution began, and camera technology has advanced at a blistering pace. We’ve gone from blurry motion shots to capturing incredible detail, even beyond what the human eye can see. However, one persistent issue has been the “synthetification” of faces, particularly skin tones, due to aggressive computational processing. Tecno is tackling this challenge head-on with its innovative Universal Tone technology.
Tecno’s Answer to Inaccurate Skin Tones
Tecno's Universal Tone Technology
Tecno’s AI-powered Universal Tone technology focuses on restoring accurate skin color by calibrating the camera’s processing pipeline in conjunction with its sensor. While primarily a software algorithm, Tecno emphasizes that the entire system is tailored to each specific camera hardware configuration for optimal results. This adaptable approach ensures wider accessibility, benefiting users across a range of devices, rather than limiting the technology to a select few.
“Our goal is to develop truly inclusive imaging technology. Universal Tone adapts to the unique capabilities of each camera sensor, maximizing performance across our product line,” explained Fanyi Zhou, Director of the Image Quality Testing & Assessment Department at Tecno’s Image Quality Testing lab, in an interview with MaagX.
This focus on hardware-specific optimization distinguishes Universal Tone from solutions like Google’s Real Tone technology for Pixel smartphones. While Google’s approach utilizes the Monk Skin Tone (MST) scale, Tecno has built its own extensive database, meticulously curated for mobile photography and color card-based customization.
A More Comprehensive Approach to Skin Tone Representation
Different Skin Tones
“Tecno’s multi-skin-tone color card, developed with input from leading color science experts, represents a significant leap forward,” notes Dr. Kaida Xiao, associate professor in Colour and Imaging Science at the University of Leeds. “Instead of the 10-level Monk scale, Tecno’s system includes over 200 skin tone patches, providing unparalleled coverage across diverse ethnicities.” This comprehensive database, built on real skin color spectral data collected with advanced tools, forms the foundation of Universal Tone’s accuracy.
The Importance of Authentic Skin Tone Representation
Coming from a region with a wide spectrum of skin tones, from deep browns to golden yellows, I’ve personally experienced the frustrations of inaccurate skin tone reproduction in photographs. The prevalence of skin-whitening beauty filters further exacerbates the issue. While aesthetic preferences exist, accurate representation should be the starting point, allowing users to apply edits as desired, rather than being forced to correct algorithmic inaccuracies.
“Tecno’s multi-skin-tone color card is based on measurements of real skin tones under standardized lighting, reflecting the true diversity of human skin color worldwide,” Zhou told MaagX.
Addressing Regional Aesthetics and Beauty Standards
Tecno Phantom V Fold and Tecno Phantom V Flip
Beyond accurate representation, Tecno also acknowledges the influence of regional beauty standards. Universal Tone incorporates a Local Tuning Engine that analyzes ambient lighting and color temperature to produce images that align with local aesthetic preferences for tonality, texture, and overall appearance. This nuanced approach recognizes that beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept.
Research conducted by L’Oreal, using the Chromasphere colorimetric tool, highlights the vast range of skin tones even within a single country like India. Tecno’s Universal Tone technology, currently utilizing learnings from 268 skin tone patches, aims to address this global diversity through a three-step process: detection, grading, and calibration.
A key component is algorithmic frame adjustment, which segments facial skin tones and balances exposure, ensuring accuracy even in group photos. The entire process occurs in real-time within the viewfinder, with the final image rendered almost instantly after capturing the shot.
The Future of Universal Tone
Tecno Camon 30 Premier
Universal Tone is currently available on the Tecno Phantom V Fold 2, Phantom V Flip 2, and Camon 30 series, accessible through the AI Cam or AI Portrait modes within the Tecno camera app. The next generation of this technology, debuting on the upcoming Camon 40 series, will further integrate hardware and software optimizations. Tecno also plans to unveil a custom sensor designed specifically for Universal Tone at MWC 2025, promising even more precise skin tone calibration.
Tecno’s commitment to addressing skin tone bias in smartphone photography is a significant step forward. As someone who has experienced the limitations of current camera technology, I’m eager to see the impact of Universal Tone in promoting inclusivity and authentic representation.
