Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce announced Tuesday that CLIC Smart Privacy Glass has earned the title of “Coolest Thing in Wisconsin” for 2026. The award highlights a home‑ and business‑oriented product that lets users change a window’s appearance with a simple tap on a smartphone app.
Local manufacturing and technology
The glass is manufactured by Cardinal IG, a long‑standing glass producer based in Tomah, Wisconsin. By integrating a thin, electrically‑responsive film between two panes, the product can transition from a clear view to a frosted, privacy‑enhancing surface in seconds. The transition is controlled through a dedicated mobile application, giving property owners the flexibility to adjust privacy on demand.
Benefits for homeowners and businesses
For residential customers, the technology offers a modern alternative to traditional curtains or blinds, allowing natural light to flood a room while still providing privacy when needed. Commercial users, such as office buildings, hotels, and retail spaces, can use the glass to create adaptable environments that respond to changing needs throughout the day. The app also enables scheduled changes, so windows can automatically become frosted during evenings or when a meeting is in progress.
Economic impact and local pride
The recognition from Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce underscores the state’s growing reputation for innovative manufacturing. Cardinal IG’s Tomah facility employs dozens of skilled workers, and the success of CLIC Smart Privacy Glass could spur additional job growth as demand expands beyond state borders. Local officials praised the achievement as a testament to Wisconsin’s blend of manufacturing heritage and forward‑looking technology.
Other contenders in the contest
Joining CLIC in the top four were several other notable Wisconsin products. Brillion‑based Ariens secured a spot with one of its popular zero‑turn lawnmowers, showcasing the state’s strength in durable outdoor equipment. The remaining finalists represented a range of sectors, from agricultural machinery to consumer electronics, reflecting the diversity of Wisconsin’s industrial base.
What’s next for smart glass?
Cardinal IG plans to broaden distribution of the smart privacy glass throughout the Midwest and explore partnerships with home‑automation firms. The company is also researching energy‑efficiency enhancements, aiming to integrate low‑emissivity coatings that could reduce heating and cooling costs while maintaining the privacy feature.
Consumers interested in the technology can learn more through Cardinal IG’s website or by visiting local showrooms that carry the product. As Wisconsin continues to champion home‑grown innovation, CLIC Smart Privacy Glass stands as a clear example of how local manufacturing can deliver cutting‑edge solutions to everyday life.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
