The History of IQOS Heated Tobacco Products
Updated Oct 20, 2025
This article is only for legal age (18+) smokers or nicotine product users only.
From Cigarettes to Smoke-Free Innovation
When most people think of Philip Morris International (PMI), they often associate it with traditional cigarettes. But over the past decade, PMI has undergone a bold transformation.
Our mission is clear: to replace cigarettes with smoke-free alternatives for adult smokers who would otherwise continue smoking. While never starting to smoke or quitting tobacco entirely is the best choice, we believe that heated tobacco products offer a better alternative than continued smoking for adults who would otherwise choose to continue to smoke or use other nicotine products.
The Origins of Heated Tobacco
The concept of heating tobacco instead of burning it dates to the 1980s. Early attempts at creating heat-not-burn devices didn’t meet the expectations of adult smokers. But the idea persisted, and decades of research and development led to the creation of a more refined solution.
The Birth of IQOS
In 2008, PMI began developing a revolutionary product that would change the way tobacco is consumed.
By 2014, the first IQOS device was launched in Japan and Italy, offering adult smokers a cleaner, bladeless alternative to cigarettes.
Today, IQOS is available in over 50 countries and has helped more than 32.2 million* adult users transition away from traditional smoking.
*PMI Financials or estimates, IQOS user panels and PMI Market Research. Status as of December 2024. PMI heat-not-burn product users who have completely quit cigarettes and for whom PMI tobacco sticks represent at least 70% of their past 7-day heated tobacco consumption.
IQOS uses SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEMTM to heat specially designed tobacco sticks without combustion or burning, producing no ash and less smell than cigarettes. This innovation is backed by over $6 billion in investment and the work of more than 400 scientists and engineers.
Learn more about IQOS.
The Next Step in IQOS Technology
All our existing Heat Not Burn products heat the tobacco sticks without combustion for a satisfying, smoke-free tobacco experience. Our newest device takes things a step further. Designed to elevate every aspect of your Heat Not Burn experience, IQOS' latest product is set to bring pleasure with each puff.
The Evolution of Heated Tobacco: Introducing the New IQOS ILUMA i
Now, IQOS is entering a new era with the launch of the IQOS ILUMA i – the most advanced heated tobacco device yet.
Designed for adult users seeking a smarter, cleaner, and more personalized experience, the IQOS ILUMA i will soon be available in the Philippines.
The Evolution of Heated Tobacco: Introducing the New IQOS ILUMA i
Now, IQOS is entering a new era with the launch of the IQOS ILUMA i – the most advanced heated tobacco device yet.
Designed for adult users seeking a smarter, cleaner, and more personalized experience, the IQOS ILUMA i will soon be available in the Philippines.
Powered by the SMARTCORE INDUCTION SYSTEMTM, the ILUMA i heats tobacco without blades, eliminating cleaning and delivering consistent taste. It features:
- FlexPuff: Control your puff count and enjoy your session your way.
- Pause Mode: Take breaks and resume when ready.
- Touchscreen Interface: Sleek and intuitive control at your fingertips.
The IQOS ILUMA i offers a more personalized and intuitive experience for adult users. No Blade, No Cleaning: A truly hassle-free experience. Whether you're searching for the new IQOS or exploring the future of heated tobacco in the Philippines, the IQOS ILUMA i is designed to elevate your journey toward a smoke-free lifestyle.
With a decade of practice under our belt, our latest device reflects our commitment to perfecting the Heat Not Burn experience. What better way to celebrate than with a new IQOS device that reflects everything we are about? Leveraging innovation and technology to reach our vision of a smoke-free future.
Why Choose IQOS?
IQOS offers the taste of real tobacco without fire, ash, or smoke. It’s a better choice for adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products. With the launch of the IQOS ILUMA i, the experience is now smarter, cleaner, and more customizable than ever.
Learn more about the Benefits of IQOS.
Ready to make the switch? Visit our IQOS Store to find a store near you or explore our full range of devices online.
Important Information: This product is not risk free and provides nicotine, which is addictive. Only for use by adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products.
IQOS are only for adult smokers who otherwise wish to continue to use tobacco or nicotine containing products.
This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.
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