The latest trend in vaping is smart vapes, featuring interactive displays and games. While these innovations might seem fun and engaging, experts warn they could be particularly enticing to youths, posing significant risks.
A New Generation of Vapes
Originally simple devices for delivering nicotine, vape pens have rapidly evolved into sophisticated entertainment gadgets. Last year, disposable vapes began featuring small illuminated displays showing battery life. In just six months, these screens expanded to the size of flip phone screens, equipped with retro games like “Pac-Man” and “Tetris,” all for under $20.
Concerns Over Youth Appeal
The rapid advancement of vapes into interactive devices raises concerns about their appeal to young people. UC Riverside researchers, Man Wong and Prue Talbot, have noted that these “smart vapes” are clearly geared towards a younger audience, potentially increasing the risk of nicotine addiction among teenagers.
The Catalyst: Geek Bar Pulse
The Geek Bar Pulse was the first vape to feature a full-length screen, displaying battery life, vape juice levels, and an animated spaceship. This innovation sparked a wave of smart vapes, with products like the Craftbox V-Play 20K disposable vape featuring games. A viral tweet showcasing a “Pac-Man” game on this vape drew significant attention.
Interactive Features
Smart vapes, such as the Ursa Pocket Pod Kit by Lost Vape, offer features like puff count competitions and social media rankings. These devices use interactive elements to attract users, similar to how slot machines use lights and sounds to engage players. Experts warn that these vapes prey on screen-time addiction, gaming disorder, and nicotine dependence.
Health Risks and Uncertainties
Despite their popularity, the health effects of vapes are not fully understood. Vapes and e-cigarettes contain different chemicals than traditional cigarettes, some of which are toxic. Ingredients like diacetyl, linked to lung disease, and nicotine are common in e-juice. The American Lung Association emphasizes that vaping is harmful, containing dangerous chemicals and heavy metals.
Youth Access to Vapes
Although it’s illegal to sell nicotine-loaded vapes to those under 21 in California, many youths still manage to obtain them. A survey by the California Department of Public Health found that 21.6% of high school students had tried a tobacco product, with vapes being the most popular. Many students reported easy access to vapes from stores, online, or from others.
Regulatory Hopes
Researchers hope that increasing awareness of how quickly vape products evolve will lead to better regulation. They urge the Food and Drug Administration to monitor and regulate these products more closely to prevent them from targeting young people.
The evolution of vapes into smart devices represents an exciting leap in technology and user experience. These innovative features, from interactive displays to built-in games, make vaping more engaging and enjoyable. However, it’s important for both users and regulators to stay informed about these advancements to ensure they are used responsibly and safely. What do you think about smart vapes and their potential impact? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow us at vapeast.com for more updates!
For more information, visit the California Youth Tobacco Survey and the American Lung Association.
Preventing teen vaping is important