Smoke and You're Exposed: Shenzhen Mall's Bathroom Stalls Turn Transparent for Smokers

What if your private stall suddenly vanished? A shopping mall in Shenzhen, China, is using 'shame tech' to stop smokers in their tracks. It's a bold move that turns a private moment into a public spectacle the second someone lights up.

The End of Secret Smoke Breaks

According to local media, the Shuibei mall has installed high-tech doors in its men's restrooms. Normally, these doors feature smoked glass that provides full privacy. However, they're rigged with smoke sensors that trigger a dramatic transformation.

When the sensor detects smoke, it cuts the power to the smart glass in just a few seconds. Deprived of electricity, the once-opaque glass becomes crystal clear, exposing the occupant to anyone walking by. An alarm also sounds, ensuring the rule-breaker doesn't go unnoticed.

Safety or Shaming?

The internet is divided over this literal transparency. Proponents argue it's a necessary measure to enforce non-smoking laws in crowded public spaces. Critics, however, worry about potential glitches and the extreme invasion of privacy, questioning if the punishment fits the crime.