A new era has dawned for those seeking an alternative smoking experience — one that reimagines the way users interact with tobacco by blending technology with design. IQOS heated tobacco devices introduce a different approach: no combustion, no ash, and none of the lingering smell of cigarettes. Whether you're considering a fresh start or simply curious about how this technology works, here are 10 key things to know about this innovation.
1. From smoke to aerosol: What changes?
Unlike traditional cigarettes, IQOS doesn’t burn tobacco - it heats it. As a result, there is no combustion smoke, but rather a vapor-like aerosol, a mix of microscopic solid particles and liquid droplets released into the air.
2. The “heat-not-burn” technology game changer
Heat-not-burn technology functions by heating processed tobacco sticks to around 350°C — a temperature high enough to release nicotine and flavor compounds, yet below the threshold of combustion. By not burning the tobacco, the process significantly reduces the formation of many harmful chemicals typically associated with smoking. To ensure consistent performance, devices are equipped with advanced sensors and precise thermal regulation systems that maintain optimal heating throughout use. This innovative approach offers an alternative for adult smokers who are looking for a better alternative than cigarettes.
| Feature | Heated Tobacco (IQOS) | Traditional Cigarette |
|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Delivery | Heat-not-burn (~350°C) | Combustion (~900°C) |
| Smoke Production | No – produces aerosol | Yes – produces smoke |
| Ash / Odor | None | Present |
| Tar | Not produced | Produced |
| Fixed Usage Duration | Yes (up to 14 puffs or ~6 min) | No predefined duration |
| Device Maintenance | Minimal or none | Not applicable |
3. Advanced design means minimal maintenance
The latest IQOS devices, such as the ILUMA series, are engineered to require little to no user maintenance. Thanks to the Smartcore Induction System™, there are no blades or residue-prone areas that need manual cleaning. This not only ensures consistent performance and clean taste with every use but also offers added convenience for the user. The shift to bladeless technology reflects IQOS’s commitment to simplicity and innovation, making the tobacco experience smoother, cleaner, and more user-friendly than ever before.
4. Your battery is your power source
To begin your session, your heated tobacco device must be fully charged, much like the lighter is a prerequisite for a conventional cigarette. Devices like the IQOS ILUMA i PRIME and IQOS ILUMA ioffer up to 3 consecutive sessions and provide an Eco mode functionality, which can extend battery life for up to a year. However, it goes without saying that battery longevity mainly depends on usage and care. For example, the use of unauthorized chargers or cables may damage your IQOS device or even pose safety risks such as overheating. That is why correct usage, storage, and understanding of the charging cycle are crucial for safety.
5. Pause Mode: A practical feature in newer models
Some advanced heated tobacco devices now offer a pause mode,allowing users to interrupt their session for up to 8 minutes and resume exactly where they left off. This feature is especially useful for those who may be interrupted by external factors or prefer not to complete their session all at once. During the pause, the device maintains a stable temperature for a few minutes, enabling users to resume their experience without losing session time or puffs. This is an innovation that enhances flexibility and reflects IQOS evolution toward more adaptable and user-friendly solutions.
6. Balanced experience, structured rhythm
The heated tobacco experience experience follows its own almost ritualistic process: activation, preheating, a defined usage time (approximately 6 minutes or up to 14 puffs), and automatic shutdown. This consistency offers the user greater control over consumption, unlike traditional cigarettes, of which the usage is typically more spontaneous. However, it should be noted that the IQOS experience design is the result of technological planning aimed at improving control over this daily habit, gradually encouraging a more mindful approach to tobacco use.
7. The heated tobacco market is rapidly expanding
The heated tobacco industry is experiencing explosive growth worldwide. According to the Grand View Research (2024),the market is projected to reach $165.11 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of 35.9%. Europe and Asia lead the trend, while more and more companies invest in device development and flavor innovation.
8. Usage in public spaces Is regulated
Although IQOS devices do not produce combustion smoke or ash, they are still defined as tobacco products and are therefore subject to the same restrictions regarding the areas they can be freely used. Specifically in Greece, its use is prohibited in indoor public spaces under the anti-smoking law, while similar regulations apply in many EU countries.
9. Dual Use Is More Common than Expected
The simultaneous consumption of both heated tobacco products and conventional cigarettes, a habit known as “dual use”, is not as uncommon as one might think. However, it is important to understand that this practice significantly reduces the potential benefits that could be obtained from a full switching to heat-not-burn technology.
10. Less disturbance for those around you
One of the most noticeable differences between heated tobacco and traditional cigarettes is the absence of strong smoke odor and ash. This not only benefits the user but also those nearby, as it helps reduce discomfort in shared environments. The aerosol produced during the IQOS use dissipates more quickly in the air and leaves little to no residue on clothing, hair, or indoor surfaces. While it should not be considered entirely “harmless,” it is more socially acceptable in both public and private settings. This more discreet form of use can meaningfully enhance daily life, particularly for users who live with or frequently interact with non-smokers, where mutual respect and adaptability matter.
