Sony's new wearable air conditioner runs even cooler

TL;DR

Sony has launched the Reon Pocket Pro Plus, an upgraded wearable air conditioner that delivers stronger cooling with a 20% performance boost. The device, designed to sit at the back of the neck, now features enhanced stability and an improved cooling algorithm. It is available in the UK and Europe, with US availability still unconfirmed.

Sony has announced the release of the Reon Pocket Pro Plus, an upgraded wearable air conditioner that offers a 20% increase in cooling performance and enhanced stability, now available in the UK and Europe.

The Reon Pocket Pro Plus, Sony’s latest iteration of its wearable cooling device, features a two-degree Celsius (3.6°F) increase in cooling capacity over its predecessor, achieved through an improved cooling algorithm and hardware refinements. The device, which sits at the base of the neck, uses the Peltier effect to deliver targeted cooling, and can operate for up to 10 hours on a single charge at its second-highest cooling setting.

Design improvements include new fins that hold the device more securely around the neck and shoulders, increasing stability by approximately 40%, according to Sony. The device also incorporates a smaller, second-generation Pocket Tag that monitors ambient temperature and humidity, aiding the cooling process. An optional companion app provides manual control and customization, although the device can function independently of a smartphone. Sony has not yet confirmed US availability but is offering the device through its own store and online retailers in Europe and the UK, priced at £199 and €220 respectively.

Why It Matters

This development is significant because it advances personal cooling technology, which could be increasingly relevant amid rising global temperatures and heatwaves. The wearable’s portability and extended battery life make it a practical solution for outdoor activities, commuting, and work environments, potentially reducing reliance on traditional air conditioning. For Sony, this positions the company as a leader in innovative personal comfort devices.

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Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus wearable air conditioner

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Background

Since 2017, Sony has been developing the Reon cooling device, launching it via crowdfunding in 2019, and gradually expanding its availability across Asia and the West. The device uses Peltier cooling technology, which is compact and suitable for wearable applications. The Pro Plus model represents a decade of refinement, with improvements in cooling efficiency, battery capacity, and comfort. The device’s design allows it to be worn discreetly beneath clothing, targeting users seeking portable relief from heat.

“The Reon Pocket Pro Plus offers a significant boost in cooling performance, stability, and user comfort, making personal cooling more accessible and effective.”

— Sony spokesperson

“Sony’s latest wearable cooling device demonstrates ongoing innovation in personal comfort technology, with a focus on performance and usability.”

— Engadget

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What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear when or if the Reon Pocket Pro Plus will become available in the US, as Sony has not announced US-specific plans. Additionally, the real-world effectiveness and user reception of the device remain to be tested, as Sony has yet to release detailed performance data or user reviews.

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What’s Next

Next steps include the device’s official availability in Europe and the UK, with testing and reviews expected to follow. Sony may also announce US release plans, and further updates on user feedback and performance will likely emerge in the coming months.

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Key Questions

How does the Reon Pocket Pro Plus cool the user?

The device uses the Peltier effect, with an electrically cooled metal plate at the back of the neck, to deliver targeted cooling. It includes a fan to circulate air and an improved cooling algorithm for better performance.

How long can the device operate on a single charge?

The Reon Pocket Pro Plus can run for up to 10 hours on its second-highest cooling setting.

Is the device comfortable to wear for extended periods?

According to Sony, the device features new fins that improve stability and comfort, making it suitable for prolonged use, though user experiences are still pending.

Will the device be available in the US?

Sony has not yet confirmed US availability; the device is currently sold in Europe and the UK through Sony’s online channels and retailers.

Can the device be used without a smartphone?

Yes, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus can operate independently, but a companion app is available for manual control and customization.

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