Buzz
For centuries, cannabis seemed simple—just seed in soil, plant to flame. But even back in ancient times, there was a drive for smarter consumption; nearly 2,500 years ago in Greece, Herodotus described a vaping method using hemp seeds on searing stones. Fast forward to more recent innovations, where discreet growers shifted operations indoors. The art of hand-sifting hash evolved into extraction methods. By the 1990s, passionate tokers began inventing new ways to consume, and now, weed that was once smoked or ingested is often vaped or consumed via devices like Volcanoes.
These developments in what I like to call 'cannabis technology' have revolutionized the industry—dispelling old stigmas, proving that weed can be enjoyed responsibly, safely, and even discreetly. This progress, no doubt, played a huge role in pushing forward the legal access movement. I witnessed this firsthand when the first G-Pen Micro debuted in NYC in the early 2010s; suddenly, users could indulge freely—whether openly or on the down-low—and it was a game changer. The same can be said for the Pax vaporizer, which gave flower enthusiasts a smoke-free, portable way to enjoy their favorite strains.
Even today, innovation continues to redefine the cannabis world, with everything from robots filling vape cartridges to cutting-edge customer data systems in dispensaries. These advancements aren’t just about profits (though that’s a nice bonus); they also foster accessibility and consistency as cannabis legalization continues to spread across the U.S. and beyond.
While traditional methods of consuming cannabis are perfectly fine, cannabis technology is paving the way for healthier, cleaner, and more controlled ways to indulge. Precision and safety are key, benefiting everyone from beginners to seasoned users. No one wants to accidentally overdo it or end up with a tolerance so high that they can't get the full experience.
Because of these advancements, we’re excited to spotlight some of the coolest and most innovative cannabis technologies emerging today, so you can take your session to the next level.
Devices and Tools
Omura Series X ($99): This is a vape designed with flower enthusiasts in mind. While it’s not exactly new, the updated Omura Series X has been earning rave reviews for its sleek design and innovative approach. It uses special cardboard tubes called Flowersticks, pre-filled with ground cannabis (you can also fill your own). Simply set your desired temperature, load the tube, and enjoy a pure, flavorful experience—without the hassle of cleaning and maintaining a typical portable vape. While some markets may not have partnered brands to provide the flower pods yet, the benefits—mess-free, consistent vapor—are so strong that it won’t be long before this is no longer a concern.
Airgraft 2 battery ($10 with membership): Concentrate pens can feel a bit overdone, especially after many of us distanced ourselves from them during the “vape crisis.” But this one stands out with its fresh design, and it’s been in my hand non-stop for weeks. Its size is just right—about the same as a Bic lighter in height and width, making it easy to carry in your pocket. The standout feature is its registered pod system, which notifies you immediately about any recalls and keeps you updated on new flavor releases. A vibrating alert lets you know when you’ve hit 2mg of THC. One full charge lasts for weeks, even with regular use, so you don’t have to worry about charging it constantly or running out at inconvenient times.
iSpire’s The Wand Kit ($119): Electronic dab devices have undergone quite a transformation. Some are nothing more than fancy vape batteries, while others are pricey and difficult to use. The iSpire, shown here, offers a simple, practical solution for those who want to enjoy dabbing without dealing with a blowtorch.
The device heats a specialized banger using an internal metal tube (similar to the piece found on a regular bong); you simply drop in your concentrates just like a traditional torch dab (unlike many other devices that require the goo to be dropped in first). I was seriously impressed by how torch-like this device made my dab, creating incredibly potent vapor and completely vaporizing the concentrate—there was no sticky residue or leftover resin. One heating cycle allows multiple people to drop in their concentrates, making the iSpire perfect for group sessions, unlike most e-dabbers.
Ardent FX ($290): I thought I had seen it all when it came to decarboxylating devices when the Nova hit the market, but the FX is even more advanced. Ardent is one of the few companies empowering cannabis users at home, rather than just sending them to dispensaries. Whether for medical or recreational use, making infused edibles with precise doses is incredibly easy with the FX. They even provide hundreds of recipes for creating cannabis-infused dishes—and sometimes the entire process happens in the unit, so there’s no mess to clean up after you’re good and baked.
Innovations in Consumables
MXXN Jalisco Agave (price varies): As someone with a bartending background, I was initially skeptical of the new cannabis “spirits” that aim to mimic alcohol rather than create something unique in the cannabis beverage space. However, this one truly impressed me. Its flavor is reminiscent of a high-quality mezcal, like Del Maguey’s single source selections, with a distinct bite at the finish.
What it didn’t have was the overwhelming sugar that some cannabis elixirs and alcohols use to mask unwanted flavors; it was crisp and dry, with a smooth vanilla smokiness. Made by Vertosa, a cannabis innovation company in California’s Bay Area, it’s part of a movement bringing new social drinks to the market. MXXN’s cannabis-inspired beverages are just one of many products from Vertosa, which is known for its focus on bioavailability and product stability. By creating fast-acting products, their beverages deliver an effect more akin to alcohol—providing a quick buzz instead of the slow-onset high of traditional edibles.
Purejuana powder ($22.50 for a box of 10): For those who need quick relief from cannabis, discreet and efficient consumption is key. Purejuana is a California-based brand offering single-strain, water-soluble powders to mix into your beverages. Available in a range of doses, from micro-doses to the legal maximum of 10mg, Purejuana doesn’t shy away from letting the herb’s taste come through. Unlike simple THC isolates, this product delivers a full-flower experience, making it a unique choice for those seeking both convenience and quality.
Once you start exploring high-tech ways to consume cannabis, it’s easy to become hooked, even if you still enjoy a classic joint (or a more modern gummy). While cannabis remains something of an enigma, with its full range of chemical interactions still not fully understood, the technology behind it continues to evolve. As scientists uncover more of its secrets, the tech will follow, opening up even more ways to experience it. For cannabis enthusiasts, each new method is a chance to discover a new favorite, and diving into this rapidly growing sector of weed innovations is just as enjoyable as the cannabis itself.
