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".

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.