What Smart Film Is
Smart film — also called PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) film — is a switchable privacy film that transforms ordinary glass into glass you can turn opaque on demand. With the flip of a switch or the tap of an app, the same pane goes from crystal clear to a private frosted finish in an instant.
Unlike permanent frosting, smart film gives you both states whenever you want them: open and bright, or completely private.
How Smart Film Works
Smart film uses liquid crystal technology sandwiched inside a thin, clear laminate. In the off state, the liquid crystals are randomly oriented and scatter light, so the film looks frosted and private. When a low-voltage electrical current is applied, the crystals align and let light pass straight through — turning the glass clear.
Because it switches instantly and only draws power to stay clear, smart film delivers privacy on demand with minimal energy use.
Why LA Chooses Smart Film Over Smart Glass
Electrochromic 'smart glass' is built into the window itself and can cost five to ten times more. Smart film achieves the same switchable result at a fraction of the cost:
- Retrofittable — applied to your existing glass, no window replacement needed
- A fraction of the cost of electrochromic smart glass
- Same clear-to-frosted result, installed in days instead of a glazing rebuild
- Ideal for retrofits in offices, homes, and commercial interiors
Real Project: Mayweather Boxing + Fitness
We installed smart film at Mayweather Boxing + Fitness at both their Los Angeles and Las Vegas locations — transforming training-room glass and reception areas into switchable privacy spaces. Members get open energy on the floor and instant privacy for VIP training and executive areas at the touch of a control.
Smart Film Applications
Smart film fits almost any space where privacy needs to change throughout the day:
- Office conference rooms and boardrooms — instant privacy for presentations
- Medical offices and clinics — patient privacy without permanent frosting
- Luxury residential bathrooms — switchable privacy for showers and windows
- Hotel rooms and suites — guest privacy on demand
- Retail display windows — switch between display mode and privacy mode
- Gyms and fitness facilities — privacy for training areas and executive suites
Control Options
Smart film can be operated however suits the space:
- Wall switch for simple staff or homeowner control
- Remote control
- Smartphone app
- Voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant
Smart Film vs Smart Glass
The difference comes down to retrofit and cost:
- Smart glass: built into the glass, can't retrofit, costs 5–10x more
- Smart film: applied to existing glass, retrofittable, fraction of the cost, same result
Pricing
Smart film is priced by project scope — the size of the glass, number of panes, and control system all factor in. Call (323) 466-0608 for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your space.