US
Juul is working on a Bluetooth-connected version of its popular device, and its features could help the company combat underage use.
Valued at US$15 billion, Juul claims over 70% of the US e-cigarette market. However, as it continues to attract investment and users, the company also admits that its product is being used by teenagers.
“We acknowledge kids are using the products,” Juul chief administrative officer, Ashley Gould, said earlier this year. “We’re committed to stopping it.”
So far, Juul has committed US$30 million towards efforts to stem underage use of its products. The Bluetooth technology and accompanying software could help users track their nicotine intake, but they could also be used to regularly verify that users are not underage.
The company has also considered using Bluetooth to form geofences around schools, causing any of its e-cigarettes to shut down when they’re on a school campus. “We are actively evaluating new technologies and features to help keep Juul out of the hands of young people,” a company spokesperson said.
According to c.e.o Kevin Burns, the Bluetooth-connected Juuls will start rolling out in Israel and Western Europe in October.