Nailympia London: Sponsor Spotlight – Umia
19 January 2026 | London, News
Nail Art Through AI Working in Harmony & Supporting Nail Artists Globally
At the crossroads of artificial intelligence, robotics and artistry sits Umia, a brand quietly yet confidently reshaping what is possible in the nail industry. As the company behind the world’s first AI-powered nail painting system, Umia is not positioning itself as a novelty product, but as a new category – one designed to support and elevate the entire nail ecosystem.
Founded with the belief that technology should enable creativity rather than replace it, Umia’s vision extends far beyond machinery. The company describes its work as building infrastructure – a framework where nail artists, business owners and consumers can all benefit from innovation working in harmony with craftsmanship.
“Our goal has never been to replace artists,” says Modi Liu, co-founder of Umia. “We are creating tools that remove physical and logistical limitations, so creativity can travel further, reach more people and become more sustainable as a profession.”
The name Umia – inspired by the concept of utopia – reflects this ethos. For the brand, a ‘happy world’ means balance: accessibility for consumers, scalability for businesses and opportunity for artists. By offering a consistent, high-quality nail art experience powered by AI, Umia aims to make premium nail design more widely available while complementing existing salon operations rather than competing with them.
For nail artists, the platform introduces an entirely new medium. Designs created once can now live globally, worn by clients the artist may never meet in person. This model not only expands creative reach but opens new income streams and long-term visibility – something Umia views as essential to the future of nail artistry.
“Creatively, we’re giving artists a new canvas,” Modi Liu explains. “Commercially, we’re helping them build sustainable careers that aren’t limited by geography. Authorship and individuality matter to us and our platform is designed to respect both.”
Umia’s philosophy of championing artists has already translated into action. Last month, the brand launched a special holiday campaign at Selfridges London, presenting a curated seasonal nail art collection executed through its AI-powered system. The initiative brought nail artists’ work into one of the world’s most iconic retail environments – an early yet powerful statement of Umia’s commitment to visibility and respect for artistry.
This commitment also underpins Umia’s decision to sponsor Nailympia London, the world’s leading nail competition platform. For the brand, the partnership is less about marketing and more about alignment.
“Nail artists are the cornerstone of the community we are building,” enthuses Modi Liu. “Supporting Nailympia is our way of standing alongside artists, celebrating their excellence and contributing to a forward-moving industry.”
Umia views competitions as vital spaces for growth and recognition. They provide artists with the opportunity to reflect on their skills, push creative boundaries and gain visibility within a global professional network. Events like Nailympia, the brand believes, play a critical role in driving innovation and raising standards across the industry.
“Competitions don’t just showcase talent,” adds Modi Liu. “They create connection, encourage progression and help artists build confidence and careers. That kind of environment is essential for long-term industry health.”
Innovation sits at the heart of Umia’s identity, but the brand is careful not to dictate trends. Instead, it positions itself as a neutral, adaptive platform – one that responds to evolving client demands while leaving creative control firmly in the hands of artists.
“AI is our native language,” Modi Liu explains, “However, inclusiveness and individuality guide everything we build. Everyone has their own beauty language and Umia exists to support that – not overshadow it.”
Looking ahead, education and empowerment remain key priorities. Umia is developing tools that help artists work more efficiently, reach broader audiences and view technology as a creative ally rather than a threat. By doing so, the company hopes to inspire the next generation of nail professionals to embrace innovation with confidence.
Ultimately, Umia’s mission is rooted in balance – between art and technology, progress and tradition, scale and individuality. “We want to help create a happier, more balanced ecosystem for everyone in the nail industry,” cites Modi Liu. “When artists thrive, the industry thrives – and that’s the future we’re building towards.”
As Umia continues its journey, one thing is clear: this is not just about machines painting nails. It is about redefining how nail art is created, shared and valued on a global stage.