Buttonless Heated Tobacco Product Emerges... KT&G Launches 'Lil Hybrid 2.0'

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Saeng-hye] KT&G will unveil the upgraded version of its heated tobacco product, the ‘Lil Hybrid 2.0,’ on the 10th at eight ‘Lil Minimalium’ locations.

The Lil Hybrid 2.0 is the first heated tobacco device to eliminate all buttons. Instead, it features a ‘Smart On’ function that automatically preheats the device when a stick is inserted, without the need to press any buttons.

Additionally, an OLED display has been installed on the device to allow real-time monitoring of battery and cartridge levels, as well as the remaining puffs on the stick. The display also shows various operational information during use, enabling users to conveniently check the device’s status.

With the application of fast-charging technology, charging time has been reduced by approximately 25%. While the previous model required 2 hours and 10 minutes to fully charge, this new product shortens the charging time to 1 hour and 40 minutes.

The design has also been refined. Diamond cutting has been applied to the top and bottom parts of the device to add sophistication, and a metallic yet soft texture emphasizes a premium feel. The product will be available in four colors: ‘Matte Black,’ ‘Prism White,’ ‘Cobalt Blue,’ and ‘Metallic Bronze.’ Among these, ‘Cobalt Blue’ and ‘Metallic Bronze’ will be sold exclusively at Lil Minimalium stores.

While upgraded with various innovations, the new product retains the advantages of the original ‘Lil Hybrid 1.0,’ such as convenient stick removal, minimal need for device cleaning, abundant vapor production, and reduced burnt taste unique to heated tobacco products.

The Lil Hybrid 2.0 will be initially released on the 10th at eight Lil Minimalium flagship stores. From the 19th, it will be available at CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven stores in the Seoul area. In 19 major cities, including Sejong Special Self-Governing City, six metropolitan cities, Chuncheon in Gangwon Province, and Cheongju in North Chungcheong Province, it will be sold exclusively at CU and GS25 stores.

A special promotion to celebrate the launch of the Lil Hybrid 2.0 will also be held. The recommended retail price is 110,000 KRW, but customers who obtain a ‘special coupon (22,000 KRW)’ from the official Lil website can purchase it for 88,000 KRW. Additionally, the first 100,000 customers will receive an exclusive skin as a gift.