Over the years, vaping has evolved rapidly, but where did it all begin and how has it evolved? What can we expect for 2025? With the disposable vape ban looming and AI becoming increasingly advanced and incorporated into vaping devices, there is a lot to predict. In this blog, we will discuss the evolution of vaping and highlight where we feel the 2025 vaping technology is headed.
Introduction: The Rapid Evolution of Vaping Tech:
In 1963, Herbert A. Gilbert created the first electronic device to replace the burning of tobacco, however, due to limited resources and no keen interest, the idea was dismissed. In 2003, the idea was revisited by a pharmacist in China called Hon Lik. The idea was inspired by the loss of his father to lung cancer, this idea then found its way into the Chinese market in 2004.
Herbert A. Gilbert
Hon Lik
In 2007, e-cigarettes were introduced to the US and European markets, which resembled cigarettes (cig-a-likes). 2009 saw the release and innovation of vaping “pens” which had more battery life and power than the previous release of cig-a-likes. It didn't stop there in its advancements, two years later, box mods were created, which allowed users to tailor their experience even further with adjustable wattage and airflow.
2015 saw the boom of the high nicotine prefilled pod kit, JUUL. JUUL was a new and innovative pen that saw a rise in smokers making the switch over to its accessibility and simplicity. A few years later, in 2019 to be precise, disposables were the next big thing. Disposables became a new phenomenon and still are incredibly popular today, which has led to an increase in smokers making the switch over to vaping.
JUUL (2009)
Elf Bar (2019-Now)
TPD Changes Everything
Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) and its UK equivalent, the Tobacco & Related Products Regulation (TRPR) lays out the tobacco and vaping industry rules, focusing on the safety and harm reduction of smokers and vapers. In 2014, TPD introduced a new set of rules and regulations within the vaping industry, which were made to ensure the safety of consumers. So what changed?
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Tanks, pods and cartridges were restricted to 2ml in size. This was to reduce the amount users vaped, preventing users from excessive nicotine intake.
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E-liquids that contained nicotine were restricted to 10ml or less. Shortfills could still be sold but were to be nicotine-free with the option for nicotine to be added separately. This rule was put forth to lower the harm of accidental ingestion and skin exposure.
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In addition to the above, the maximum strength of nicotine was now to be capped at 20mg/ml (2%). This regulation establishes a maximum nicotine level for vaping products, safeguarding consumers against excessive nicotine intake.
E-Liquids
E-liquids have evolved so much since the mid 2000’s when they were invented. The flavours were simple, tobacco and menthol and simple fruit flavours were all you could get your hands on. These basic flavours were often incredibly subtle and artificial tasting.
Fast forward to 2025 where a new flavour is popping up every day. Complex dessert flavours, cocktails, tropical mixes, candy-inspired and ice-blended flavours can be purchased at your convenience. Vaping brands are putting way more care into crafting like-for-like flavours that are authentic. The complexity of the juices you now find on the market often contain cooling menthols, concentrated sweeteners and natural extracts for a more pleasurable experience.
Diavlo E-liquid - Miss Hayworth (2008)
Azurite Sweet Blue Ice Shortfill E-Liquid by Crystalized (2025)
They were all high in PG as well, 70PG/30VG or 50:50 as the only available kits at the time were low-powered vape pens. Fast forward to now, where we have a variety of PG/VG blends (40PG:60VG, 50PG:50VG, 60PG:40VG, 20PG,80VG and 30PG:70VG). When vaping first began we only had freebased liquids to work with which typically came in 6mg, 12mg and 18mg, which all would have been on the harsher side. The ranges typically range now from 3mg to 20mg offering more accessibility. We also now have nicotine salts which are formulated to provide smooth satisfaction even at high strength levels, 20mg being the highest.
Tanks to Pods
Aspire K1 Tank (2014)
Vaporesso XROS 4 Pod (2024)
The vaping landscape saw a considerable change with the shift from glass tanks and removable coils to pod systems featuring built-in coils. Initially, vaping setups typically used glass tanks with replaceable coils, often paired with high-powered mods. These setups were well-suited for sub-ohm vaping, producing considerable vapour clouds and intense flavour. However, they also offered a learning curve, demanding users to prime coils, address potential leaks, and regularly replace worn-out components. While they provided a high degree of customisation, they weren't always beginner-friendly or suitable for on-the-go use.
As vaping attained popularity, the demand for easier and more transportable options grew. Pod systems emerged to meet this need, with devices like the Uwell Caliburn A2 and Vaporesso XROS Mini introducing pods with built-in coils for a plug-and-play experience. These kits were cleaner, smaller, and incredibly easier to use, making them ideal for ex-smokers and those seeking a low-maintenance vape. Users could simply replace the entire pod when it wore out, eliminating the need to switch coils. The rise of nicotine salts, which function optimally at lower power and don't require the high-wattage output of traditional sub-ohm tanks, further fueled this shift.
While glass tanks offered greater control and performance for cloud chasers, pod systems prioritised user-friendliness, portability, and tactfulness. Consequently, they have become the favoured choice for most casual vapers today. However, hybrid devices are now emerging to bridge the gap, providing pod-style convenience with the option of replaceable coils for those who still desire some customisation.
Batteries
Cigalikes (typically under 300mAh)
The 200W Geek Vape Aegis Legend 3 Vape Kit holds 2 x 18650 batteries
Vaping batteries are another component of vaping that has constantly changed with time. Initial devices in the vaping world often contained batteries that were typically under 300mAh, had longer charging times and with little to no adjustability. When they did start producing more mod-type kits, there were several safety concerns, like overheating and thermal runaway.
Nowadays, the vapes that are being produced have high-capacity integrated batteries anywhere from 1000mAh up in pod kits or external 18650/21700 batteries in the more advanced mods. Regulated power output, battery efficiency modes and fast charging are common features in today's series of releases. Multiple safety protections and built-in chipsets ensure the safety and longevity of your battery.
Now in 2025, there are more and more innovations in the vaping world being brought out daily with smarter devices and enhanced design improvements. Let's delve into just exactly what we can expect here on out.
The Rise and Decline of Disposable Vapes
It would have been impossible to write this blog without mentioning one of the biggest changes we will see this year within the vaping industry, the ban of disposable vapes. By June 1st 2025, all disposable vapes will be banned from sale in the UK. Well, why and where did it go wrong you ask?
The Rise of Disposable Vapes
2019 saw the innovative creation of disposable vapes that immediately boomed. Users could now vape without the worry of changing coils, charging and refilling their devices, which was especially great for smokers who wanted to make the switch over. Users could now just puff away without a care in the world, once the liquid ran out all you would need to do is purchase a new disposable. If that wasn't enough, the portability aspect also definitely had a part to play. I went from carrying around a sub-ohm dual battery mod bulking out the pocket of my jeans to not even noticing the disposable that was there. Don’t get me started on the flavour levels of disposables - due to their disposability aspect, manufacturers could now use more sweeteners, which further added to their desirability.
The Decline: The UK Disposable Vape Ban & Industry Shifts
Many factors play a part in the ban on disposable vapes. Environmentally, 5,000,000 disposable vapes were found to be thrown away each week, which resulted in considerable amounts of plastic and battery waste. Unsuitable disposal of disposable vapes can lead to lithium batteries leaking, which in turn causes harm to the environment, posing a fire safety issue in waste processing facilities. Disposables typically aren't crafted with recyclable materials either, making it impossible to prevent this crisis.
Another contributing factor was the notion of how popular the boom of disposables became amongst young people, especially underage teenagers. This was blamed on the array of flavours and the bright packaging. Many online retailers and convenience stores were also illegally found to be selling to underage teenagers with no age restrictions in place.
Sustainability: The Move Toward Eco-Friendly Vaping
With the disposable ban looming, it seems more and more manufacturers are moving towards more sustainable vaping with reusable prefilled and refillable vape kits.
Here are some ways in which brands are implementing greener options for 2025.
Prefilled Pod Kit Releases - Vape brands are releasing prefilled pod kit versions of the most popular disposables - allowing users to get the same great flavour they are used to but with replaceable pods and rechargeable batteries. This will potentially be the most appropriate upgrade for users who are accustomed to the ease of single-unit devices.
Example: The Elf Bar 600 Prefilled Pod Kit is an example of the shift to a more sustainable form of vaping. It features all the same great aspects as the Elf Bar 600 disposable but can be recharged and uses replaceable prefilled pods. This greatly reduces waste and without compromising any of the convenience benefits of single use vaping.
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Recyclable E-Liquid Bottles - E-Liquid brands are now ensuring their bottles and packaging are 100% recyclable.
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Long-Lasting Coils - New coil technology is being developed more and more with high prioritisation on extending lifespan, which in turn leads to less discarding of pods.
Coil Advancements: Mesh Coil Technology
In the year 2025, mesh coil technology has become vital to the majority of high-quality vaping experiences. Initially, a premium component solely found in advanced sub-ohm kits, mesh coils are now a common feature in devices ranging from compact refillable pods to disposable vapes. This is a significant improvement, as mesh coils—engineered with a flat, grid-like structure—deliver improved, more even heating, excellent flavour profiles, and an extended coil lifespan when compared to traditional spiral wire coils.
A notable evolution has been the introduction of dual mesh coils, which use two mesh strips instead of one. This creation increases the surface area available for e-liquid vaporisation, resulting in an exceptionally intense, saturated flavour with each inhalation and a boost in overall coil durability. These coils are particularly suited to the restricted direct-to-lung (RDL) vaping style, which is currently prevalent, offering a smooth, warm draw and satisfactory vapour production without the excessive e-liquid and battery consumption associated with traditional direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping.
A prime example of contemporary mesh coil innovation is Elf Bar’s QUAQ coil technology, which is now widely implemented in their pod systems and disposable devices. QUAQ integrates ultra-fine mesh, precise airflow, and advanced wicking mechanisms to ensure consistent flavour delivery throughout the device's use. This represents a considerable improvement over older coil designs, providing enhanced flavour retention, a reduction in dry hits, and a longer pod lifespan, aligning with current vaping preferences in 2025.
Smarter, More Customisable Devices in 2025
In 2025, vaping technology is more advanced than ever. Vaping manufacturers are now honing in on smart features (touch screens), longer battery life and more customisation. Vapers can now take more control when it comes to exactly how they want their vaping session to be, dual-pod systems and rapid charging.
Innovative chipsets make your individual vaping experience more personalised and powerful. Here are some of the features smart chipsets allow for.
- Can monitor the number of puffs taken, battery power, coil temperature, and wattage/voltage, in real-time.
- Some newer devices allow for Bluetooth and app connectivity.
- Advanced Vaping Modes - Smart chips allow for many intelligent modes such as;
Smart Mode - A mode which recognises the resistance of the coil and sets the optimal wattage.
Memory Mode - Allows the user to store and recall their favourite vaping settings.
ECO Mode - Preserves battery allowing for 10-15% more puffs from your device.
Stealth Mode - Great for its discreteness, minimises vaper clouds.
Pulse Mode - Consistent pulses of heat travel through the coil.
Boost/Turbo Mode - Ramps up the flavour and vapour production, great for when you need that extra hit.
Example: The Voopoo Drag X2 80W Pod Kit is equipped with a Gene.TT 2.0 chip that offers 0.001s firing speed, full spectrum wattage, smart mode and RBA mode.
Dual & Multi-Pod Systems vs. Big Puff Vapes: A Smarter Way to Vape in 2025
2025 is seeing more and more prefilled pod kits as well as pod kits that can hold up to four containers at a time. This is very much appreciated amongst consumers due to the versatility it provides. Say goodbye to the days of vapers' tongue. Other than versatility and longevity, there are many more benefits big puff/multi-pod systems provide.
Multi-Pod Systems
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Pods tend to last longer as you are receiving double the amount, sometimes even quadruple.
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No need to carry around multiple kits or extra pods. You can have all your favourites in rotation.
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No need to refill, pods are prefilled and can be purchased separately.
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Longevity - typically high mAh batteries are used.
Example: The Elf Bar 4-in-1 Prefilled Pod Kit houses four irreplaceable 2ml pods, each with a unique flavour.
Big Puff Reusables
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High puff count, typically over 5,000+
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Pods are easy to replace.
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Up to 6000 puffs per pod.
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Can be refuelled via Type-C charging.
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Lower cost and more longevity than single-use bars.
Example: The Snowplus Swift Prefilled Pod Kit hosts up to 6,000 puffs with replaceable prefilled pods that can be purchased separately.
New Nicotine Delivery Methods: Beyond E-Liquids
In 2025, the many different ways of receiving nicotine are also growing in popularity. If you are a smoker or someone who is looking to quit the in-hand habit, this is wonderful news. These new methods that are popping up on the market every other day offer discrete, smoke-free and faster absorption. Let's take a look at some of the innovative methods.
Nicotine Pouches - Small and discreet pouches that are filled with nicotine and flavouring. You tuck one underneath your lip for long lasting nicotine relief. They offer rapid satisfaction of cravings and can normally be kept in place for up to half an hour.
Nicotine Gum - A popular alternative that is now being manufactured by vaping brands. Nicotine gum is a familiar way to handle your nicotine cravings and provides incremental nicotine delivery keeping cravings away.
Nicotine Strips - Dissolvable strips or films that deliver nicotine satisfaction within seconds, nicotine strips provide a flavourful and fast acting way to get you nicotine fix. The strips dissolve completely within seconds and deliver a low amount of nicotine for rapid relief. They're also environmentally friendly.
Nicotine Pearls - Tiny dissolvable beads that provide a steady nicotine release in the mouth. Simply place a couple of nicotine pearls underneath your tongue, where they'll slowly release a steady stream of nicotine over a 5 to 10 minute period. Like nicotine pouches, pearls are discreet and can be used whilst indoors.
The Future of Vaping: Innovation and Sustainability
Vaping has undergone a remarkable transformation since its origins in the 1960s. Today, advancements in coil technology, pod vaping and increases in battery capacity are shaping the industry and driving its rapid evolution.
The disposable vape ban has spurred innovation, leading to the development of sustainable, versatile, and technologically advanced vaping solutions. You can now enjoy smarter vape kits, cleaner nicotine delivery, and eco-conscious options that cater to modern lifestyles.
Vape Superstore remains committed to staying ahead of the curve by offering the latest prefilled pod kits and discreet non-vape nicotine alternatives.
Upgrade your vaping experience and embrace the future with our newest 2025 releases. Shop smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable vaping solutions with Vape Superstore today!
