The next box of cigars that you buy might have some new technology in it, as HumidifGroup USA has begun offering its new Smart Packaging technology to cigar companies, which will allow them to design multimedia and immersive experiences accessible via your cell phone.

To do so, the company embeds a near-field communication (NFC) chip into the cigar box or other accessory. When an individual brings their smartphone into close contact with the chip, it opens a web browser that leads to content designed by the cigar company to showcase their brand.

The technology is debuting with the release of Ferio Tego Cigar Co.’s new lines, with the company creating a webpage that offers more information and videos about the cigars and company. HumidifGroup suggested that companies could incorporate virtual reality or augmented reality content, as well as tap-to-reorder functionality and authenticity verification.

“Smart Packaging by HumidifGroup allows us to control our messaging and ensure that we are communicating clearly to our audience,” said Michael Herklots of Ferio Tego Cigar Co. via a press release. “Packaging is an important part of the Ferio Tego experience. Smart packaging technology allows collectors to receive real-time information and communication about Ferio Tego and our products.” He added that the technology allows Ferio Tego to support its retail partners by keeping the most helpful details and stories of Ferio Tego “right on the product itself, delivered straight to a smartphone.”

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Patrick Lagreid

I strive to capture the essence of a cigar and the people behind them in my work – every cigar you light up is the culmination of the work of countless people and often represents generations of struggle and stories. For me, it’s about so much more than the cigar – it’s about the story behind it, the experience of enjoying the work of artisans and the way that a good cigar can bring people together. In addition to my work with halfwheel, I’m the public address announcer for the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks during spring training, as well as for the Salt River Rafters of the Arizona Fall League, the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, the G-League's Valley Suns, and previously the Arizona Rattlers of the Indoor Football League. I also work in a number of roles for Major League Baseball, plus I'm a voice over artist. Prior to joining halfwheel, I covered the Phoenix and national cigar scene for Examiner.com, and was an editor for Cigar Snob magazine.