FDA Kicks at Vape Phones: We Might Not See Newer Smart Vapes Again
Earlier this year, a new trend emerged – the “smart” vape devices with smartphone-like functions which are activated via Bluetooth wireless connection. We were all excited about these devices, which allowed for gaming directly on vape devices, and access some cool features like Find Phone, calculator, call & SMS notifs, and more. Well, it seems all the mania will die down for now, and probably, forever – the reason? FDA released a warning to manufacturers that make these smart “Phone Vapes.”
FDA Warns Manufacturers of “Smart” Phone Vapes
On Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning to all manufacturers that are making disposable vapes with smartphone features and functions, and marketing them as vape phones. According to the circular, while the devices did include smartphone functionalities, they are nowhere near to being real “smart” devices.
“These products may resemble smart devices, but there’s nothing smart about them,” said Brian King, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products. “They’re illegal to sell and a flagrant attempt to target kids.”
The FDA cited that brands selling these devices are doing so without authorization from the department, and as such, the products are illegal to continue selling them. Apparently, the FDA has always kicked against consumption of e-cigs by youths and younger adults, and these new phone vapes seem to be made in a way that appeals mostly to youths.
The devices are built to mimic retro game consoles like Gameboy or a standard smartphone display screen. According to the FDA, the designs are deceptive, while in the real sense, the devices don’t deliver the same functions and feel like the ones mimicked.
So far, to date, the FDA has issued over 700 warning letters to vape stores and brands manufacturing, selling, and/or distributing unauthorized new tobacco products, with about 690 warning letters sent to retailers for the sale of unauthorized tobacco products. Also, the FDA has filed civil money penalty complaints against more than 75 manufacturers and more than 150 retailers for distribution and/or sale of unauthorized tobacco products.
Should You Be Worried About This?
Hardcore vapers really don’t care about those “smart” features and phone-like integrations, including the games. I mean, who wants to waste their vape’s battery on games instead of getting puffs? But then, there are still people who find these features to be really handy and relevant. Either way, there’s nothing to worry about – there are many good disposable vapes to switch to, as you can enjoy gaming and other stuff on your actual smartphone. Vapes should be vapes.
Apparently, if phone vapes gets a nationwide ban and you still have some with you, for sure you can keep using it; however, once you’re done with those ones, you won’t be getting new ones, you have to port to another vape model. The full FDA circular can be read here for proper context.
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