Instant privacy at the click of a button. Smart Film transforms any glass surface from perfectly clear to completely frosted in seconds — controlled by a wall switch, smartphone app, or fully integrated home and building automation system. No replacement glass required.
Smart Film — also known as switchable film, electric privacy film, or PDLC film — is a self-adhesive window film that uses Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) technology to switch between a clear, transparent state and a frosted, opaque state on demand. Our Smart Cling self-adhesive smart film applies directly to any existing smooth flat glass surface using a simple peel-and-stick installation. There is no need to replace your existing glass or windows.
When powered on, the liquid crystal molecules inside the film align uniformly, allowing light to pass through freely — your glass looks completely clear and transparent. When power is switched off, the crystals scatter randomly, diffusing light and creating a frosted appearance that blocks the view from both sides. The film is also dimmable, allowing you to set intermediate levels of opacity for partial privacy or light diffusion. Available in white and black tints, in custom sizes to fit any glass panel.
Smart Film is made in the USA, engineered for long-term durability, and comes with a 5-year warranty on all installations performed by Compass Window Tinting.
Smart Film operates on a straightforward principle: electricity controls privacy. Inside the film is a layer of liquid crystal molecules suspended in a polymer matrix. A low-voltage electrical current — typically 110V AC stepped down via a transformer — flows through the film's transparent conductive layers.
Smart Film integrates with a wide range of control systems so you can manage your privacy exactly how you want it. Compatible control systems include:
Control your smart film from a smartphone app from anywhere in the world. Schedule automated transitions and integrate with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit for voice control.
Simple handheld remote controls for straightforward on/off or dimming operation. RF remotes work through walls; IR remotes require line-of-sight to the receiver.
Full integration with professional building automation platforms. Perfect for commercial installations, conference rooms, and high-end residential smart home systems requiring centralized control.
Advanced integration options for theatrical, hospitality, and custom installations. Program dynamic privacy sequences, link film states to other building systems, or create automated privacy schedules.
Smart Film is one of the most versatile window film technologies available. Its ability to deliver instant, on-demand privacy without structural changes makes it ideal across a wide range of settings.
Transform your home with privacy that works on your schedule. Smart Film eliminates the need for blinds, curtains, or frosted glass replacements.
Create flexible, professional spaces that adapt to your business needs. Switch from open and inviting to completely private in one second — no blinds, no shutters, no waiting.
Upgrade luxury vehicles, specialty transport, and recreational vehicles with instant electric privacy glass that elevates the passenger experience.
Bring smart privacy technology aboard your vessel. Durable, moisture-resistant smart film handles the demanding marine environment without compromise.
Smart Film delivers far more than just privacy. Here is what every installation includes.
Smart Film pricing is custom-quoted for every project because no two installations are the same. The final cost depends on several factors:
The best way to get accurate pricing is to schedule a free consultation. We will assess your glass, discuss your control preferences, and provide a detailed quote with no obligation.
Our certified technicians follow a precise installation process to ensure your smart film performs perfectly and lasts the full warranty period.
Smart film is a self-adhesive switchable window film that applies to any smooth glass surface. When powered on, the film becomes transparent and completely clear. When powered off, it turns frosted and opaque, providing instant privacy. It is controlled by a switch, smartphone app, remote control, or home automation system such as Crestron, Lutron, or Amazon Alexa.
Smart film uses PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology. When electrical current flows through the film, liquid crystal molecules align and allow light to pass through — the glass appears clear. When power is off, the crystals scatter randomly, diffusing light and creating a frosted, opaque appearance. The film can also be dimmed to intermediate levels of opacity for partial privacy or light management.
Yes. Our Smart Cling self-adhesive smart film is a peel-and-stick product that applies directly to existing flat smooth glass surfaces. No glass replacement is required. This makes it far more cost-effective than purchasing pre-made switchable glass units and allows installation in spaces where glass replacement would be impractical or expensive.
Smart film is compatible with a wide range of control systems including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RF (radio frequency), IR (infrared) remote, Crestron, Lutron, DMX, and Arduino. It integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit for voice-activated control. A simple wall switch is also available for installations that do not require smart home integration.
Yes. Smart film blocks 98% or more of harmful UV rays in both the clear and frosted states. This protects occupants, furnishings, flooring, artwork, and merchandise from UV-induced fading and damage regardless of the film's current privacy setting — a significant advantage over blinds or curtains that provide UV protection only when closed.
Smart film pricing depends on the total square footage of glass, the control system selected, and installation complexity. Because every project is unique, we provide custom quotes after a free consultation. Call (425) 988-9877 or submit a quote request to get started.
All smart film installations by Compass Window Tinting include a 5-year warranty covering film defects and installation workmanship. Our team uses professional-grade materials and follows a rigorous installation process to ensure your smart film performs reliably for years.
Yes. Switchable smart glass is a factory-manufactured glass unit with the PDLC layer embedded between two panes of glass during production. Smart film is a self-adhesive film that retrofits onto your existing glass. Smart film is significantly more affordable, can be installed without any structural changes, and is removable if needed. Both achieve the same clear-to-frosted switching effect.