TECNO Sets New Standard for Middle East Skin Tone Imaging with Groundbreaking Saudi-Led Research

Manal Saleh

 

Riyadh, Tuesday 2 Dec 2025 - TECNO, the AI-driven innovative brand today announced the successful completion of a joint research project with the University of Leeds and Dar Al-Hekma University, dedicated to overcoming the challenges of accurate skin tone reproduction in Middle Eastern environments. By developing a localized Saudi skin tone database, creating a dedicated algorithm, and establishing psychometric standards for 'authentic' reproduction, the project provides a systemic solution to a key industry issue. This initiative marks a significant step in TECNO's "Glocalization" strategy, delivering truly imaging experiences both inclusive and tailored to regional needs.

 

Tackling Regional Challenges, Defining a New Standard in Saudi Arabia

 

"There exists a common stereotype regarding skin tones in the Saudi region, but our in-depth study revealed a far broader and more diverse spectrum than generally perceived," said Professor Kaida Xiao, Professor in Color and Imaging Science in the School of Design at the University of Leeds. "This very diversity has driven us to deepen our research and strive for more precise and authentic representation of Saudi skin tones in imaging technology."

 

 

"Saudi Arabia is a nation rich with a beautiful spectrum of skin tones. What is remarkable is that TECNO is the first and only smartphone brand to conduct dedicated research here to truly understand and celebrate this diversity," Professor Ahmed Nasseraldin, Assistant Professor at Dar Al-Hekma University. "We are proud to participate in this ground-breaking initiative, providing local perspectives to help shape technology that authentically representative of who we are in Saudi Arabia."

 

 

Three Key Research Breakthroughs

 

·        A Localized Skin Tone Database and Benchmark: The team collected 1,794 authentic skin tone samples within Saudi Arabia, leading to the development of the industry's first custom multi-tone color card specifically for the Saudi market. This card provides an unprecedented precise benchmark for imaging calibration, ensuring localized relevance from the ground up.

 

·        A Dedicated AWB Algorithm for Saudi Arabia: By systematically capturing Saudi-specific daylight and artificial light spectra and integrating the new skin tone database, the team developed a new generation Automatic White Balance (AWB) algorithm for portrait photography. This technology enables multi-dimensional refinements based on skin luminance and chrominance, accurately reflecting subtle variations even within the same ethnic group.

 

·        Defining “Authenticity” Through Scientific Measure: Through rigorous psycho-visual experiments, the project established clear parameters for what Saudi consumers perceive as “real and acceptable” for skin tones. This transforms subjective notions of authenticity into a measurable, industry-applicable standard.

 

TECNO Universal Tone: A Continuing Commitment to Authentic Imaging

 

Universal Tone technology represents a systematic engineering initiative within TECNO. As the only player in the industry that engages in deep collaboration with both international and regional academic institutions, TECNO is committed to building comprehensive skin tone databases and calibration capabilities. By mobilizing global R&D resources and establishing dedicated laboratories, the company has built an integrated, structured framework for skin tone measurement and reproduction, forming a truly systematic approach to inclusive imaging.

 

 

 

For any related media queries, please contact pr.tecno@tecno-mobile.com

 

 

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About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of "Stop At Nothing," TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO's official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.