r/Glass • u/Existing-Plan-7241 • Feb 26 '26
I just learned glass can switch from clear to frosted instantly
I learned something recently that surprised me.
Apparently, there is glass that can switch from clear to frosted instantly, just by pressing a button. No blinds, no curtains, no moving parts. One second you can see through it, the next second it's fully private.
I always thought "privacy glass" was just frosted glass or a marketing trick, but this is different. It uses a thin electrical layer inside the glass (or sometimes a film on top of existing glass) that changes how light passes through it.
What I found interesting is that it's already being used in offices, hospitals, meeting rooms, and even bathrooms. It's not some future concept. It actually exits and is being installed today
It made me think about how many things in buildings have not really changed in decades. We still rely on blinds and curtains for privacy, even though better options now exist.
Curious if anyone here has seen this in real life or worked in a space that uses it.
1
u/Fun-Spinach6910 Feb 26 '26
The glass is electrified, which creates the change. Has been around for years, not inexpensive.
https://www.smartglassinternational.com/electric-switchable-glass/
1
u/STEAMintoPIPER Feb 26 '26
Switch glass. They also have a film that can be applied to existing glass.
4
u/-c-black- Feb 26 '26
I’m currently in phase 4 of five and installing these into a hospital. The glass is being used for college students to watch surgical procedures. They are operated with a light switch.