Smart vapes equipped with features to prevent underage usage may soon hit the market. A newly enacted law, the Tobacco and Vapes act, empowers the Government to require manufacturers to implement age verification technology.
Members of Parliament are urging the Government to utilize these newfound powers to compel vaping companies to introduce digital child locks on their devices. Concerns have been raised about the potential “gamification” of e-cigarettes, where devices may offer games or smart functionalities that incentivize usage.
Existing technology allows for age verification and “geofencing” capabilities in vapes, which can restrict their operation in sensitive areas frequented by children, such as schools and playgrounds.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Responsible Vaping is advocating for the Government to regulate both the technology embedded within vape devices and their sales practices.
Chair of the APPG, Euan Stainbank, emphasized the importance of preventing youth access to vapes while acknowledging their role in aiding adult smokers in quitting. The call is not merely for risk regulation but also for proactive measures extending from product sales to usage.
MPs are pushing for the implementation of smart vape technologies that promote responsible usage, including Bluetooth-enabled age locks, app-based verification, and intelligent restrictions that require age confirmation before device operation.
In related news, Health Streeting is set to leverage the new act to crack down on underage vaping, with penalties for non-compliant shops and the establishment of a specialized enforcement team. Former Health Secretary Lord Andrew Lansley highlighted the need for technology that limits vape usage to verified adults.
Starting next summer, the government will utilize its enhanced authority to curb e-cigarette advertising and promotion nationwide. Restrictions will extend to adverts, billboards, and sponsorship activities by vaping companies.
Furthermore, the Government plans to explore the possibility of plain packaging and concealed display of vapes in stores, aligning with regulations for cigarettes.
Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, condemned marketing vapes to children, emphasizing the necessity of restrictions outlined in the new Act.
