BONDS by IQOS & BLENDS FAQ: Devices, Sticks & Compatibility
A complete guide to BONDS by IQOS, the newer BONDS 2 device and BLENDS tobacco sticks. Learn which sticks are compatible, how to use and charge the device, what the indicator lights mean, which BLENDS flavors exist and how to solve common problems.
About BONDS by IQOS and BLENDS
The essential differences between BONDS, conventional cigarettes, vaping products and other heated-tobacco systems.
What is BONDS by IQOS?
BONDS by IQOS is a compact, all-in-one heated-tobacco device developed for BLENDS sticks. It heats the tobacco instead of burning it and does not require a separate holder and pocket charger.
The device uses ROUNDHEAT technology, which heats the outside of the inserted BLENDS stick. This is a different system from the induction technology used by IQOS ILUMA.
What is BONDS 2 by IQOS?
BONDS 2 is the newer generation of the BONDS system. Official regional specifications describe a faster charging time, up to 28 sessions from a full charge and up to three consecutive uses.
Some official websites and retailers may still display the shorter name “BONDS by IQOS”. Check the model information printed near the charging port or on the original packaging before following a specific user guide.
What are BLENDS sticks?
BLENDS are specially designed tobacco sticks made exclusively for the ROUNDHEAT system used by BONDS devices. They contain processed tobacco and nicotine and are available in tobacco, menthol and flavored variants, depending on the country.
Is BONDS a vape or an e-cigarette?
No. BONDS is a heated-tobacco device, not a vape. It heats a tobacco-containing BLENDS stick to produce an aerosol. Vapes normally heat an e-liquid and use a different cartridge, pod or tank system.
Do BLENDS contain tobacco and nicotine?
Yes. BLENDS contain real tobacco and naturally occurring nicotine. Nicotine is addictive, and using a heated-tobacco product is not risk-free.
Are BONDS and BLENDS available worldwide?
No. Availability differs significantly by country. BONDS and BLENDS may be officially available in one market, unavailable in another or removed from sale in a particular region.
Product names, device generations, colors and BLENDS flavor selections can also vary between markets.
Have BONDS or BLENDS been discontinued?
They have not been universally discontinued. BONDS and BLENDS continue to appear on official IQOS websites in certain markets. However, sales have ended in some countries. For example, IQOS announced the phase-out of BLENDS in the Philippines in March 2025.
A local discontinuation notice should not be interpreted as a worldwide discontinuation. Always check information for the relevant country.
BONDS 2 vs original BONDS
BONDS generations use the same BLENDS ecosystem, but their battery specifications and operating signals are not identical.
| Feature | BONDS 2 | Earlier BONDS |
|---|---|---|
| Heating system | ROUNDHEAT | ROUNDHEAT |
| Compatible sticks | BLENDS | BLENDS |
| Sessions per full charge | Up to 28 | Up to 25 |
| Approximate full charging time | 120 minutes | 180 minutes |
| Consecutive sessions | Up to 3 | Refer to the model-specific manual |
| Ready sequence | Preheating vibration followed by a ready vibration | Older three-vibration sequence with a priming puff |
| Charging connection | USB-C | Check the exact model and supplied cable |
BONDS and BLENDS compatibility
Stick formats may look similar, but their dimensions, internal construction and heating systems are different.
| Stick type | Compatible with BONDS? | Designed for |
|---|---|---|
| BLENDS | Yes | BONDS and BONDS 2 |
| TEREA | No | IQOS ILUMA and ILUMA i |
| DELIA | No | Compatible IQOS ILUMA models |
| LEVIA | No | Compatible IQOS ILUMA models |
| HEETS | No | Older blade-based IQOS devices |
| Fiit | No | Compatible lil devices |
| NEO, veo or KENT sticks | No | Compatible glo devices |
| iD or iSENZIA | No | Compatible PULZE devices |
Which sticks work with BONDS by IQOS?
BONDS and BONDS 2 are designed to work exclusively with BLENDS sticks. Use the correct BLENDS product intended for the ROUNDHEAT system and follow the instructions supplied with the device.
Can I use TEREA sticks in BONDS?
No. TEREA sticks are made for IQOS ILUMA induction devices. They are not designed for the external ROUNDHEAT system in BONDS and should not be forced into the device.
Can BLENDS be used in IQOS ILUMA?
No. IQOS ILUMA and ILUMA i devices are designed for compatible SMARTCORE induction sticks such as TEREA. BLENDS do not contain the required heating element and are not compatible with ILUMA devices.
Can BLENDS be used in an older blade-based IQOS device?
No. Older IQOS devices that contain a heating blade use compatible HEETS or market-specific blade-system sticks. BLENDS are built for BONDS and should not be inserted into a blade-based holder.
Will a BLENDS stick work in glo, lil SOLID or PULZE?
No. These devices use different heating chambers and compatible stick formats. Visual similarity does not make the sticks interchangeable.
What happens if the wrong stick is inserted?
The device may fail to heat correctly, produce little or no aerosol, become difficult to close or suffer internal damage. Remove the incompatible stick gently without twisting or forcing it. If it is stuck, allow the device to cool before trying again.
BLENDS flavors and varieties
There is no single worldwide BLENDS flavor range. The following are examples found in official regional portfolios, and local availability may change.
| BLENDS variety | Officially described profile | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Red Classics | Toasted tobacco with malty notes and a warm character | Tobacco |
| Gold Classics | Balanced tobacco with warm spice notes | Tobacco |
| Purple Menthol Classics | Tobacco with blueberry flavor and menthol cooling | Flavored menthol |
| Silver Classics | Rounded tobacco with a mild grape blend | Flavored tobacco |
| Beige Classics | Warm tobacco with creamy coconut notes | Flavored tobacco |
| Green Menthol | Cooling peppermint profile | Menthol |
How many BLENDS flavors are available?
The number depends on the market and date. Some countries list only a small selection, while others have offered additional tobacco, menthol or flavored variants. Check the current official local portfolio rather than relying on an international flavor list.
What is the difference between BLENDS Classics and Menthol varieties?
Classics varieties generally emphasize tobacco, toasted, malty, spicy or creamy notes. Menthol varieties add a cooling sensation and may also include peppermint, berry or other flavor notes.
Do BLENDS flavors taste the same as TEREA?
No direct match should be assumed. BLENDS and TEREA use different stick constructions and heating systems. Even when two variants use similar flavor terms, their strength, aroma, cooling and overall sensory profile may differ.
Why can I not find a particular BLENDS flavor anymore?
A variety may have been renamed, temporarily unavailable, restricted under local flavor rules or removed from a regional portfolio. Product availability can also change without the entire BONDS system being discontinued.
How to use BONDS by IQOS
These instructions describe the current BONDS 2 workflow. Earlier BONDS models can use a different vibration sequence.
How do I use BONDS 2?
- Make sure the device has sufficient battery power.
- Open the top slider.
- Insert a BLENDS stick up to the marked line near the filter.
- Press and hold the device button to start heating.
- Wait while the status lights pulse.
- Begin using the device after the ready vibration.
- Remove the used stick after the session and dispose of it responsibly.
Do not force the stick beyond its intended insertion line.
How do I know when BONDS 2 is ready?
The first vibration indicates that preheating has started, and the status lights pulse during heating. A second vibration indicates that the device is ready to use. Official specifications list an approximate preheating time of 30 seconds.
How do I know when a BONDS session is ending?
On BONDS 2, a vibration and one pulsing white status light indicate that approximately 30 seconds remain. The device then ends the session automatically.
How is the original BONDS operating sequence different?
Official instructions for the earlier BONDS model describe three signals:
- The first vibration confirms that heating has started.
- After approximately ten seconds, a second vibration prompts one priming puff.
- A third vibration indicates that the device is ready for normal use.
Do not apply this older sequence automatically to BONDS 2. Follow the manual supplied with the exact device generation.
How many BLENDS sticks can BONDS 2 use consecutively?
BONDS 2 supports up to three consecutive sessions. After three uses, the device can enter an automatic cooling period of approximately four minutes before another session can begin.
Can a BLENDS stick be used twice?
No. Each BLENDS stick is intended for one heating session. A used stick has already been heated and will not provide the intended performance if inserted again.
Should I twist a BLENDS stick when inserting or removing it?
Insert and remove the stick gently and straight. Excessive force, bending or twisting can damage the stick or leave material inside the heating chamber.
Does BONDS require cleaning?
Official information for current BONDS devices states that routine internal cleaning is not required. Keep the opening, exterior and bottom ventilation area free from visible debris. Do not insert sharp objects or liquids into the device.
BONDS charging and battery
How long does BONDS take to charge?
A full charge takes approximately 120 minutes for BONDS 2. Official instructions for the earlier BONDS generation list approximately 180 minutes.
Charging may take longer when an unsuitable power adapter is used or when the battery is very hot, cold or aged.
Which charger should I use for BONDS 2?
Use the correct USB-C cable and a certified power adapter compatible with the manufacturer's specifications. Official guidance recommends a 10 W adapter rated at 5 V and 2 A.
How many sessions does BONDS provide per charge?
BONDS 2 is officially rated for up to 28 sessions from a full charge. The earlier BONDS model was rated for up to 25 sessions.
“Up to” is not a guarantee for every battery. Cold temperatures, battery age and frequent consecutive use can reduce the practical result.
What do the BONDS battery lights mean?
On the earlier BONDS model, one, two, three or four illuminated white lights represent approximately 25%, 50%, 75% or 100% battery charge. Indicator behavior may differ on BONDS 2, so use the guide for the exact model when interpreting unusual light patterns.
Why is BONDS charging slowly?
Common causes include:
- An incompatible or low-power adapter
- A damaged or poorly connected USB cable
- Dust in the charging port
- Charging outside the recommended temperature range
- Normal battery deterioration after extended use
Try a compatible certified adapter and cable. Do not use a wet, damaged or excessively hot device.
Can I use BONDS while it is charging?
Disconnect the charging cable before starting a session unless the manual for your exact model explicitly states otherwise. This reduces stress on the charging connector and avoids using the device with a damaged cable.
BONDS troubleshooting
Why is my BONDS device not heating?
Check the following:
- The inserted stick is an unused, compatible BLENDS stick.
- The stick is inserted correctly up to its marked line.
- The battery has enough charge.
- The device is not completing an automatic cooling period.
- The charging cable has been disconnected.
- The air inlet and top opening are not obstructed.
- The device is not unusually hot or cold.
If the problem continues after charging and cooling the device, consult the model-specific manual or official support.
Why does BONDS stop after three sticks?
On BONDS 2, this can be normal. The device allows up to three consecutive sessions and may then pause for approximately four minutes to cool down. Allow it to rest before starting the next session.
What does a blinking orange light mean?
On the earlier BONDS model, a blinking orange indicator generally means that the battery needs to be recharged. Light codes can differ between generations, so persistent or unusual patterns should be checked against the correct user guide.
Why is the aerosol weak or inconsistent?
Possible causes include:
- A previously used, damaged or poorly stored BLENDS stick
- Incorrect insertion depth
- A blocked air inlet
- A very low battery level
- Using the device outside its recommended temperature range
Try an unused stick from a correctly stored pack after fully charging the device and checking that its air openings are clear.
Why is a BLENDS stick difficult to insert?
Confirm that the top slider is fully open and that the stick is straight, undamaged and compatible. Never force it. If visible tobacco or paper remains inside the chamber, allow the device to cool and remove loose material gently without using metal tools.
Why does my BONDS device feel hot?
Some warmth during operation or consecutive sessions is normal. Stop using the device if it becomes excessively hot, emits an unusual smell, appears swollen or shows physical damage. Move it away from flammable materials and do not charge it until it has cooled.
How do I reset BONDS?
Reset instructions can differ between BONDS generations. Identify the exact model and follow its official manual rather than applying a reset combination intended for another device.
Can the battery in BONDS be replaced?
BONDS contains an integrated rechargeable battery and is not intended to be opened or repaired by the user. Do not puncture, dismantle or replace the battery yourself.
Storage and travel
How should BLENDS sticks be stored?
Keep BLENDS in their original closed pack in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture and strong odors. Do not use sticks that are wet, crushed, torn or otherwise damaged.
Can I take BONDS on an airplane?
Devices containing lithium batteries are generally carried in cabin baggage, not checked baggage, but airline and national rules can differ. The device must not be used or charged during the flight.
Tobacco import limits and heated-tobacco rules at the destination may apply separately to BLENDS sticks.
Can I travel internationally with BLENDS sticks?
This depends on the laws of the departure, transit and destination countries. BLENDS may be treated as tobacco products and can be subject to quantity limits, duties, declaration requirements or local restrictions.
Health and safety information
Is BONDS safer than smoking cigarettes?
Heated-tobacco products generally heat tobacco without combustion, but this does not make them safe. Their aerosol can contain nicotine and other harmful substances. Long-term health effects continue to be studied.
People who do not currently use tobacco or nicotine products should not start.
Is BONDS risk-free?
No. BLENDS contain nicotine, which is addictive, and heated-tobacco aerosol is not harmless. BONDS should not be described as risk-free or as producing only harmless water vapor.
Can BONDS help me quit smoking?
BONDS is not an approved smoking-cessation treatment. Anyone who wants to stop using tobacco or nicotine should consider evidence-based cessation support available through a qualified healthcare professional or local stop-smoking service.
Is secondhand BONDS aerosol harmless?
No aerosol from a tobacco or nicotine product should be treated as clean air. Avoid using the device around children, pregnant people and anyone who may be sensitive to tobacco aerosol.
Who should not use BONDS or BLENDS?
These products are intended only for adults who would otherwise continue using tobacco or nicotine. They should not be used by minors, non-smokers, pregnant or breastfeeding people, or anyone advised to avoid nicotine.
Official information sources
- IQOS UAE — BONDS by IQOS and BLENDS
- IQOS UAE — BLENDS information and FAQ
- IQOS UAE — Device specifications and comparison
- IQOS Kuwait — BONDS 2 first steps and support
- IQOS Lebanon — Earlier BONDS first steps
- IQOS Kuwait — Regional BLENDS varieties
- IQOS Philippines — Regional BLENDS phase-out notice
- CDC — Heated tobacco products
- World Health Organization — Tobacco fact sheet
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026