Sony launched the Reon Pocket Pro Plus in the U.S. in late July 2026, introducing a wearable thermal device designed to combat extreme heatwaves. The device uses a thermoelectric cooling plate to lower body temperature directly at the nape of the neck and includes both cooling and warming modes for year-round use. According to Sony Electronics, the device is designed to help users stay comfortable year-round whether you’re commuting, spending time outdoors, or tackling the workday.
Unlike portable fans that simply move air, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus functions as a personal air conditioner that sits discreetly under clothing. It targets the upper spine—where blood flows close to the skin—to create a sensation described as pressing an ice cube against your skin, according to reporting from independent.co.uk. The device utilizes a rear plate of solid metal to cool the back of the neck, which has the effect of cooling the rest of the body as well.
Thermoelectric Cooling and Hardware Upgrades
The latest iteration of Sony’s wearable line focuses on efficiency and fit. The device features a redesigned exhaust system that expels heat upwards through a top outlet, preventing warmth from building up beneath a user’s clothes. Sony claims the Pro Plus model goes cooler than the previous model by 20%, while other sources note it can cool up to 2C more than its predecessor. A vent directs the warmth drawn from the body away from the user; for those wearing a collared shirt, there is an extension that pokes out further to funnel the warm air away.
To address stability issues found in earlier versions, Sony implemented a widened neckband and a more flexible hinge. This adaptive hold design keeps the device pressed more securely against the skin during movement, such as walking or riding trains. The previous model had a knack for losing contact
with the skin while walking, but the new model is designed to be more secure and discreet. Additionally, the Pro Plus includes an adjustable air vent extension specifically designed for higher-collared clothing, allowing the device to function effectively with shirts that sit higher on the neck.
Safety is integrated into the hardware via automatic shut-down cut-outs that trigger if the device begins to overheat.
Smart Temperature Control and the Reon Tag
The system relies on a combination of physical buttons and a companion smartphone app for temperature adjustments. A key component of the ecosystem is the Wearable Sensing Device, or TAG, a small wireless sensor that clips onto a bag to monitor ambient temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure. This separate add-on connects wirelessly to the smartphone app and detects the ambient temperature, allowing the device to automatically adjust the cooling temperature accordingly.
When the Smart Mode is activated, the device automatically adjusts cooling levels based on the environment and whether the user is indoors or outdoors. Similar to wireless earbuds, the unit can detect when it has been removed from the user’s back, eliminating the need for manual power adjustments during short breaks.
Battery Life and Power Performance
Battery endurance varies significantly based on the selected cooling stage. Users can choose from five different cooling levels, with a full recharge taking approximately three hours.
- Stage 1: 34 hours
- Stage 2: 27 hours
- Stage 3: 18 hours
- Stage 4: 10 hours
- Stage 5: 5.5 hours
This creates a clear tradeoff for the user: the absolute bliss of maximum cooling on stage five comes at the cost of a battery life that is nearly six times shorter than the lowest setting, as reported by independent.co.uk.
Market Availability and Pricing
The Reon Pocket Pro Plus launched in several global markets, including the UK, France, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the US. In the United States, the device costs $259.99 direct from Sony, though it reported being out of stock shortly after arrival, leading some consumers to seek units from third-party sellers on eBay and wafuu.com. Other reports list a product price of $34.99 (approx. Rs 3332.99).
| Feature | Specification/Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 69g |
| US Direct Price | $259.99 |
| Cooling Increase | Up to 20% stronger than previous model |
| Charging Time | Up to 3 hours |
The timing of the rollout coincided with record-breaking heatwaves in Europe, where temperatures reached up to 43°C in several regions. In the UK, the device launched as the country experienced a blistering heatwave
with temperatures of 32C. While primarily marketed for summer heat, the device’s ability to switch to a warming mode ensures it remains functional during winter months.
Sony’s wearable air conditioners have been available in Japan since 2020, but only launched in the UK last year. Despite the hardware refinements, some users still find the arm design imperfect, noting that the device can occasionally shift during movement or feel restrictive when wrapped tightly to ensure skin contact—sometimes feeling a little like a chokehold.
Whether Sony will eventually move toward a harness-style rear strap remains an open question for future iterations of the product line.
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