Juul Labs receives FDA permission to sell updated Juul2 vaping device

Juul Labs has received federal permission from the Food and Drug Administration to sell an updated version of its flagship e-cigarette, to be marketed under the brand name Juul2. This marks the first new version of the company's top-selling device since its launch over a decade ago.

The new device features an optional age-verification system that allows users to require authentication via an online app before the e-cigarette can be unlocked, a feature designed to prevent underage use. Juul plans to launch the device alongside updated tobacco- and menthol-flavored cartridges. CEO K. C. Crosthwaite stated the company intends to seek authorization for a portfolio of flavors beyond tobacco and menthol that are specifically targeted toward adult nicotine consumers.

The FDA noted that while the decision is not an endorsement, smokers who switch completely to Juul can reduce exposure to carcinogens found in traditional cigarettes. Company studies reviewed by the FDA indicated that between 20% and 50% of smokers using Juul products were able to stop smoking within six weeks. This regulatory milestone follows years of legal challenges for Juul, including approximately $3 billion in settlements related to teen use of its products.