NYC Installs 17 New Robotoilets With 10-Minute Time Limit

New York City is addressing its public restroom shortage by installing 17 new modular bathrooms, referred to as robotoilets, across its five boroughs. This initiative, announced by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, aims to provide accessible and clean facilities for residents and visitors. As of June 2025, New York City had a deficit of public restrooms, with only 975 operating facilities available, equating to one restroom for every 8,697 residents. The new robotoilets are equipped with modern amenities, including running water, temperature control, and baby-changing stations, and are being manufactured and operated by Throne Labs. The first two of these modular bathrooms became operational this week, with an additional two scheduled for deployment on Thursday. Mayor Mamdani emphasized that these facilities are intended for essential use and not for extended stays, stating they are "not a place to scroll on your phone." To enforce this, each bathroom is programmed with a strict 10-minute time limit. Users receive audio warnings at the five-minute and eight-minute marks. Upon reaching the 10-minute limit, lights will flash, and an audio message in both English and Spanish will announce that the usage time has expired and the door is about to open. A final 30-second grace period follows, after which the doors will automatically open, regardless of whether the user has finished. Currently, there is no mechanism for users to extend their session. If a user remains inside after the grace period, Throne Labs operators will be alerted. This pilot program seeks to improve public access to sanitation facilities, a critical urban service that has been historically lacking in New York City. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the city's infrastructure and quality of life for its inhabitants, particularly in areas with high foot traffic and limited existing options. The robotoilets are designed to be efficient and user-friendly, balancing the need for public convenience with operational considerations. The deployment of these 17 units is a significant step towards increasing the availability of public restrooms, with the hope that this pilot will pave the way for further expansion of such services throughout the city.