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The world of technology has a long way to go before it can be regarded as diverse and inclusive. And the recent controversy surrounding the app “Try On” is a prime example of how far we still have left to go.

What is Try On?

Try On is an app that allows users to upload a photo of themselves and try on different hairstyles and makeup looks using AI technology. Sounds harmless enough, right? Well, not quite. Especially for people of the global majority.

The Problem with Try On

Try On has a severe diversity problem. Many women of color—me included—have tried using the app only to be met with terrible images and inaccurate portrayals of what we would look like with different hairstyles and makeup looks.

The reason for this is simple: there needs to be more diversity amongst the engineers who create this technology and within the tech industry itself.

AI-generated photo of Lekeshia Angelique with blond hair

The Lack of Diversity in Tech

When you have a group of...