Cig-a-likes were the first-generation e-cigarettes designed to mimic smoking.
Cig-a-likes marked the beginning of the vaping industry. They were slim, white devices that looked like cigarettes and used pre-filled cartridges with low-capacity batteries. They were marketed to smokers as a cleaner, smoke-free alternative to cigarettes.
These early devices delivered low vapor, minimal flavour, and limited battery life—usually less than 100 puffs. Despite their limitations, cig-a-likes introduced vaping to the mainstream and laid the groundwork for future innovations. Brands like Blu, V2, and early NJOY models led the market during this period.
What Innovations Marked the Second Generation: Vape Pens?
Vape pens introduced refillable tanks and longer battery life.
Second-generation devices, known as vape pens, changed how users interacted with vaping hardware. These introduced clearomisers, refillable e-liquid tanks, and manual buttons for more control. Vape pens offered larger battery capacity and variable voltage, allowing users to adjust vapor strength.
Brands like Ego-T and Innokin gained popularity, and the market expanded with various e-liquid flavours, nicotine strengths, and PG/VG ratios. Vape pens became a turning point—bridging the gap between casual use and vaping as a lifestyle or hobby.
How Did Mods Transform Vaping Into a Custom Experience?
Mods brought power, control, and personalisation to vaping.
Vape mods, short for modified devices, offered far more than earlier generations. They came in two types: mechanical mods (unregulated) and regulated box mods with chipsets. Mods allowed users to customise wattage, voltage, and coil resistance.
With sub-ohm vaping, users could produce larger clouds and more intense flavours. Rebuildable atomisers (RDAs, RTAs) gave experienced vapers full control over coil builds and airflow. Mods used 18650 batteries and supported high-VG e-liquids. This era saw the rise of cloud chasing and vape competitions, creating a vibrant enthusiast community.
Today’s devices, such as the Crystal Pro Switch 30K, represent the evolution of this journey, offering high puff counts, advanced functionality, and long-lasting performance in a sleek, user-friendly format. They combine power, flavour, and endurance, making them ideal for modern vapers seeking premium experiences without the complexity of older mods.
What Role Did Temperature Control and Chipsets Play in Vape Advancement?
Smart chips and TC improved safety and performance.
The integration of chipsets revolutionised the safety and precision of vaping. Brands like DNA (Evolv) and YiHi introduced chipsets capable of:
- Temperature control (TC)
- Wattage adjustment
- Short-circuit protection
- Low-resistance and overheat protection
These chips helped maintain consistent flavour by preventing dry hits and overheating. Vapers could now fine-tune their experience, while manufacturers ensured greater safety and compliance with rising regulations.
How Did Pod Systems Re-Simplify the Vape Experience?
Pods made vaping portable and beginner-friendly again.
Pod systems emerged to reintroduce simplicity and portability without sacrificing quality. There are two main types:
- Closed-pod systems, like JUUL or Vuse, come pre-filled and disposable.
- Open-pod systems, like Uwell Caliburn, allow refillable use with e-liquids.
Pods work best with nicotine salts, offering smooth throat hits and quick nicotine delivery at lower power. Their compact size, USB charging, and button-free operation made them popular with smokers and new users.
What Are the Latest Vape Technologies in 2025?
Some vapes now integrate wellness features, like CBD compatibility, vitamin vape pens, and temperature-controlled modes for flavour accuracy and substance protection. Devices such as the Hayati 25K Puffs Vape Kit showcase these cutting-edge innovations, offering extended puff counts alongside intelligent performance for vapers who value both convenience and control.
- AI chipsets for real-time wattage and coil detection
- Bluetooth syncing with mobile apps
- Puff analytics and dosage monitoring
- Biometric fingerprint locks for child safety
- Mesh coils and ceramic heating for cleaner, consistent vapor
Some vapes now integrate wellness features, like CBD compatibility, vitamin vape pens, and temperature-controlled modes for flavour accuracy and substance protection.
How Has Vape Design Changed Over the Years?
Form has evolved from cigarette lookalikes to ergonomic, tech-inspired shapes.
Design aesthetics have shifted dramatically. Early vapes mimicked cigarettes; now, devices resemble smart tech gadgets. Modern materials include:
- Aluminium alloy, zinc, and PCTG plastic
- Devices with LED indicators, touchscreens, and USB-C fast charging
- Compact, curved pods that fit comfortably in the palm
The shift reflects both function and fashion, especially as vaping enters retail, health, and wellness markets.
What Drove the Evolution: Users, Tech, or Regulation?
All three: demand for control, innovation, and safety.
- Users wanted stronger hits, better flavour, and longer battery life
- Technology companies pushed chip integration and design innovation
- Regulators, like the MHRA and TPD, shaped packaging, safety limits, and nicotine standards
The result is a market that balances performance, compliance, and consumer demand—with the UK vape industry in 2025 leading in both regulation and innovation.
Key Takeaways Summary
- Vape tech evolved from cig-a-likes to powerful mods and smart pods
- Each generation improved battery life, coil design, and safety features
- Pods reintroduced simplicity with modern tech for new users
- In 2025, AI, app control, and child-safe features define the latest trends
User demand, innovation, and policy continue to shape vape technology