this post was submitted on 08 Jun 2026
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Because an existing SoC at scale is cheaper than a custom ASIC.
You see this all the time, custom keyboard running ARM+Linux, SmartNICs using RISC-V cores/FPGAs instead of ASIC accelerators. Even Microsoft refuses to commit to ASICs for network processing in their DCs and use FPGAs instead.
A vape is a battery connected to a button connected to a heating coil. You might want a single transistor. You don't need a software platform.
Sure, if you weren't competing with every other vape out there that has things like variable voltage settings (at least 3), a pre-heat feature, the ability to turn on/off with 5 presses, or to turn off automatically after 5-10 minutes without use, a low battery indicator, a charging indicator, a broken coil indicator...
Hmm, seems like you need a lot more than a battery, heating coil, button, and single transistor.
With the major caveat that dispos dont offer more than 2 of those features at best. Almost all those features you specify are on reusable devices. There are going to be some that do have those additional features, but at a price point that makes them nearly as or more costly than a reusable device.
The only IC you need for a disposable really, is a BMS, and a temp sensor (technically a timer so it also doesnt over draw, but timer ICs are built into everything) so it doesn't willfully light itself on fire in unusual circumstances.
All that to say: there is effectively 0 difference between most disposables released today and reusables, with the sole exception that you cant refill or recharge them. There should be no device with a battery deliberately intended to be thrown away, for anything, save for medical uses.