Philip Morris Korea said it has launched “IQOS 3 DUO,” the latest addition to its heat-not-burn cigarette device.

Philip Morris' heat-not-burn cigarette device IQOS 3 DUO

The new device provides two consecutive use, allowing smokers not to wait for the holder to charge for a second use. Holder charging time is also much faster than that of IQOS 3 and IQOS 2.4+, offering enhanced battery efficiency, the company said in a news conference on Wednesday.

Celebrating the launch of IQOS 3 DUO, the company will offer a new color “Sunset Copper” in a limited edition in addition to its existing core color varieties of white, gold, blue and grey. It will also offer various consumer programs to accommodate consumers’ demand to switch to better alternatives at different price points and conditions.

There will be an upgrade program in place to make it easier for IQOS 2.4+ users to purchase the new product at a more reasonable price, as well as a 14-day rental program for those who’d like to experience the device before purchase, according to the tobacco giant.

Also, compatibility with IQOS 3 will allow IQOS 3 users to purchase the Duo holder separately to use with their pocket charger but still achieve continuous usage, it added.

Consumers already subscribing to the monthly payment program can pre-order IQOS 3 DUO from Oct. 23. For general consumers, pre-order is available on IQOS.com starting Oct. 28. The offline purchase will be possible from Nov. 7 at IQOS boutique stores, shop in shops, and corner shops nationwide. The convenience store purchase will start on Nov. 28.

“We developed IQOS 3 DUO to meet the demand of consumers, focusing on functional enhancement by allowing two consecutive uses and reducing charge time,” Philip Morris Korea Managing Director Chong Il-woo said. “I am strongly confident that the new innovative features of IQOS 3 DUO will further solidify PMI’s vision for a smoke-free future in Korea by contributing to switching more adult smokers to better choices.”

Marian Salzman, senior vice president of global communications at Philip Morris International, also said, “Philip Morris International strives to be far more than a cigarette company. It aims to become an innovative company pioneering the industry based on solid scientific study and research as well as driving positive change into society.”

During the meeting, the company noted that IQOS is not risk-free and delivers addictive nicotine.

“IQOS heats tobacco instead of burning it so that consumers can enjoy real tobacco taste and satisfaction,” the company said. “On average, it has more than 90 percent less harmful chemicals compared to standard reference cigarettes.”

Extensive research conducted to date shows that completely switching to IQOS presents less risk of harm than continued cigarette smoking, the company added.

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