Ad for a toilet paper — China's bizarre public restroom norm goes viral

In a bizarre twist, public restrooms in China have introduced toilet paper dispensers that require users to watch advertisements before releasing a limited amount of paper. The system, designed to curb waste, has sparked heated debates on social media, with many labeling it "dystopian".

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How it works?

To use these smart dispensers, users must:

• Using their smartphones, users scan a QR code displayed on the dispenser.
• After scanning, users are forced to watch a short commercial before the dispenser releases a few sheets of toilet paper.
• If users need more paper, they can either watch another ad or pay a small fee of 0.5 RMB (approximately ₹5).

Many social media users have expressed frustration over the invasion of privacy and potential inconvenience.

“I'm walking with my own paper everywhere just in case,” a comment read. Another user wrote, “A bit too much.” Another individual reacted, “Ok, this is the first actually dystopian thing I have seen.”

However, Chinese officials claim the system aims to prevent excessive use of toilet paper in public restrooms.