Contrary to popular belief, vaping has not always been considered a new technology. Joseph Robinson introduced what we now refer to as an electronic cigarette device in 1927 when he filed a patent application similar to what is known today as a vape pen. Vaping was not yet being commercialised at that point, but it demonstrated how long people had been considering inhaling vapour instead of smoke as an option for inhalation.
Herbert Gilbert invented another type of smokeless device in the late 1960s that resembled modern vapes such as VooPoo Drag Q; he called his creation the “smokeless non-tobacco cigarette.” Unfortunately, back then, the world wasn’t ready; smoking was extremely popular at that point, so switching over was less of an interest; hence, his product never saw mass production.
Vaping Technology History. Modern Vape
Vaping can trace its roots back to China in the early 2000s when Hon Lik, a pharmacist and smoker, set out to create an alternative nicotine delivery system without producing smoke-induced illnesses like lung cancer – his father having passed away due to smoking-related disease as an incentive to find alternative methods.
Hon Lik invented the modern electronic cigarette in 2003 using a small battery to heat liquid nicotine into a vapour form; his design became the basis for modern vape devices we know and love today. His product first launched in China and then spread quickly throughout Europe and North America within several years of its release.
Vapes in the 2000s
In the mid-2000s, vaping caught the imagination of smokers worldwide, and many were intrigued by its “smokeless” options. Early devices mimicking cigarettes called “cig-a-likes” were small disposable units equipped with prefilled cartridges which provided nicotine delivery without smoke, tar and ash emissions like regular cigarettes did.
However, these early models had some drawbacks; battery life was short, and production was limited. Still, these devices laid a crucial foundation.
As vaping became more mainstream, users craved stronger and longer-lasting devices to accommodate growing usage rates. To meet this need, “vape mods” were invented – devices larger in size with customizable power and airflow settings to produce larger clouds of vapour while enjoying stronger flavours. These “mods” allowed people to produce thicker clouds of vapour with increased flavour intensity than their predecessors could manage.
At this time, vape juice (also referred to as e-liquids) became increasingly available, and companies offered many unique flavours beyond tobacco in devices like Cyberover 6k, such as fruit dessert and menthol, which made vaping even more appealing for a broader range of people.
Vape Culture and Sub-Ohm Vaping are Two Distinct Topics
Around 2010, vaping evolved beyond being just an alternative smoking solution and became part of culture. Vape shops opened across cities, drawing crowds together for personal sharing of experiences and sub-ohm vaping (using coils with resistance less than one ohm for larger clouds and enhanced flavour) also rose in popularity.
Cloud Chasing Competitions have since emerged, where vapers showcase the size and creativity of their vapour clouds. Social media helped spread this trend further worldwide, increasing its visibility.
Regulations and Concerns
With the increased popularity of vapes, governments began paying close attention. Many countries passed regulations regarding how vapes could be sold, advertised and used. Health experts debated whether vaping was safer than smoking; most studies show it produces fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes. Nonetheless, concerns grew regarding youth using them.
Some countries banned flavoured e-liquids to reduce youth vaping, while others implemented age limits on sales; regardless of these obstacles, vaping continued its upward trajectory.
Current and Future Vaping Developments
Vaping has grown into an international industry worth billions. Devices such as Vaporesso XROS 3 Nano have advanced from their early days as simple vaporisers into sleek pod systems for convenient portability. Companies continue to improve battery life, coil technology and flavour options available through vaping products.
Still, discussions around vaping are ongoing; supporters say it helps smokers quit, while critics worry about long-term health effects and youth use. Studies are still being done; only time will reveal their future impact.
Final Words
Vape history is one of invention and adaptation. From early ideas in the 1920s to the contemporary pod kits used today, vaping has undergone substantial evolution over time. What started as an attempt to provide smokers with safer alternatives has now evolved into an international movement with millions of users worldwide, demonstrating just how one idea can become an industry with millions of followers globally.