Transparent radiative cooling (TRC) films offer a zero‐energy thermal management solution combining high visible light transmittance, strong near‐infrared reflectance, and efficient heat dissipation through the atmospheric window (8–13 µm). However, synergistically optimizing these properties remains a core challenge. While highly promising for building windows, photovoltaics, and agricultural greenhouses, previous reviews mostly focus on single materials or isolated designs. To address this, we review recent TRC film advances and establish an analytical framework spanning from physical mechanisms to macroscopic properties to balance optical and thermal performance through material and structural codesign. We first elucidate the physical basis of spectral selectivity, analyzing how inorganic bandgaps, dielectric constants, and polymer molecular vibrations impact systems to clarify material selection principles. We then elaborate on the pivotal role of micro/nano‐optical designs, including multilayer films, photonic crystals, metamaterials, and random porous structures. Furthermore, we evaluate actual cooling performance and multifunctional integration capabilities through practical case studies. Addressing complex climates, we explore two dynamic radiative cooling strategies, demonstrating their advantages in all‐weather intelligent thermal management. Finally, we summarize technical bottlenecks and emphasize that low‐cost scalable manufacturing, all‐weather dynamic control, and cross‐scale multifunctional synergy are critical to advancing TRC technology toward practical application.
Zhao et al. (2026) studied this question.