When you think about wearable smart devices that aren't watches, your mind probably doesn't go to air conditioners. But that might change with the latest version of Sony's Reon Pocket line, the Pocket Pro Plus. This new model brings stronger cooling performance and a more stable fit than earlier models like the Reon Pocket 5. The wearable air conditioner market has seen steady innovation over the past few years, with companies like Sony, Dyson, and others exploring ways to keep individuals comfortable in hot environments without relying on traditional room-based cooling. The Reon Pocket Pro Plus represents Sony's most ambitious attempt yet to miniaturize thermoelectric cooling and integrate it into a device that can be worn discreetly under clothing.
If you've never seen one before, the Reon Pocket goes beneath your shirt collar and uses advanced thermoelectric technology to regulate your body temperature. It's called the Peltier effect, which works using an electrically cooled metal plate that sits against the skin near the base of the neck. Because of its connection to the body's circulatory system, cooling that area helps you feel the effects more easily compared to a neck fan. The Peltier effect was discovered in 1834 by Jean Charles Athanase Peltier, and it describes the heating or cooling of a junction between two dissimilar conductors when an electric current is passed through it. In modern applications, semiconductor thermoelectric modules are used to achieve precise temperature control with no moving parts, making them ideal for wearable devices where reliability and quiet operation are paramount.
The biggest upgrade with the Pro Plus is its cooling power. The new model delivers temperatures up to 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the previous version. Other features include its two thermo-modules alternate intensity for more continuous cooling. Updated sensors now automatically adjust temperature based on your surrounding conditions and activity, as well. In addition to the "Smart Cool" mode, there's also a "Smart Warm" mode for when the weather changes. This dual-mode functionality makes the device useful year-round, not just during summer heat waves. The thermoelectric modules can reverse polarity to generate warmth, effectively acting as a personal heater during colder months. This versatility is a key selling point for consumers who want a single wearable solution for both hot and cold environments.
What makes the Reon Pocket Pro Plus different
Because of the Peltier effect, the Reon Pocket has always worked by changing the temperature of the contact surface itself... not with fans, like Dyson's version. But with the Pro Plus, there's a new built-in fan that circulates air behind the neck to better disperse temps. Basically, it's all the advanced tech of a Reon Pocket with an extra boost from a mini fan. The inclusion of a fan is a significant departure from the traditional Reon Pocket design philosophy. Earlier models relied solely on conductive cooling through the neck plate, which was effective but sometimes led to uneven temperature distribution or discomfort after prolonged use. The fan helps dissipate heat from the hot side of the thermoelectric module, improving overall efficiency and allowing the cold side to reach lower temperatures. It also provides a gentle breeze that can enhance the cooling sensation.
The updated Reon Pocket Pro Plus also includes redesigned neck fins for better stability over previous models. The fins are made of a flexible silicone material that conforms to the shape of the user's neck, preventing the device from shifting during movement. This is particularly important for active users who might wear the device while walking, commuting, or exercising. The fins also improve weight distribution, making the 120-gram device feel nearly weightless when worn. Sony engineers have paid close attention to ergonomics, ensuring that the Pro Plus can be worn for extended periods without causing pressure points or skin irritation.
Battery life is another big difference. The new Pro Plus can run for up to 15 hours in "Smart Cool" mode, or up to 10 hours on one of its higher cooling settings. You can make temperature adjustments using the device's physical buttons along the sides or though the companion Reon Pocket app. The app provides detailed control over temperature levels, fan speed, and cooling/warming intensity. It can also display battery status and offer usage tips. The 15-hour battery life in Smart Cool mode is achieved by the intelligent sensors that modulate cooling power only when needed, rather than running at maximum output continuously. When the user selects higher cooling levels, the battery consumption increases accordingly, but the 10-hour runtime still covers a full workday or a long outdoor event.
The Reon Pocket Pro Plus is currently only set for launch in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, with a U.S. release date yet to be announced. Sony has not provided specific pricing information, but earlier Reon Pocket models retailed for around $150 to $200, so the Pro Plus is likely to be similarly priced or slightly higher given the added fan and improved cooling performance. The limited launch geography suggests Sony is testing the market response before expanding globally. Interest in wearable cooling devices has grown significantly as climate change leads to more frequent and intense heatwaves worldwide. Consumers are seeking personal solutions that allow them to stay comfortable without relying on energy-intensive air conditioning systems that contribute to carbon emissions.
Beyond the Pro Plus, the wearable cooling category includes competing products like the Dyson zone, which uses a combination of active cooling and air purification, as well as various neck fan brands that rely on evaporative cooling or simple air movement. The Reon Pocket's use of thermoelectric technology gives it an advantage in situations where ambient humidity makes evaporative cooling less effective. It also operates silently, unlike fan-based devices that produce noticeable noise. However, the Pro Plus's built-in fan does generate some sound, though Sony claims it is quieter than a typical conversation. For users who prioritize silence, the device can be used with the fan turned off, relying solely on the conductive plate.
The development of the Reon Pocket line highlights a broader trend in personal comfort technology: the miniaturization of industrial cooling systems into portable, body-worn forms. Early attempts at wearable cooling involved bulky vests with ice packs or circulating coolant, but modern electronics have shrunk the components needed for thermoelectric cooling to fit inside a small collar module. Sony's investment in this area suggests they see a viable consumer market beyond niche early adopters. The Pro Plus is designed for commuters, office workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who spends time in hot environments without access to traditional air conditioning.
Sony's engineering team also addressed connectivity issues with the Pro Plus. The device uses Bluetooth 5.2 for a stable connection to the smartphone app, and it supports over-the-air firmware updates so users can receive new features or performance improvements after purchase. The physical buttons on the device allow operation without a phone, which is essential for quick adjustments during activities like running or cycling. The buttons are designed to be tactile and easy to press even when the device is worn under a collar.
In terms of materials, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus uses a combination of matte plastic and soft-touch silicone. The neck contact area is made from antimicrobial materials to prevent odor buildup when the device is used in sweaty conditions. The device is rated IPX4 for water resistance, meaning it can withstand splashes of water from any direction, but it is not designed for submersion. This makes it suitable for outdoor use in light rain or while sweating during exercise, but users should avoid wearing it in heavy downpours or while swimming.
The Reon Pocket Pro Plus represents a thoughtful evolution of the wearable air conditioner concept. By combining the proven thermoelectric core with a supplementary fan and smarter battery management, Sony has addressed many of the shortcomings of previous models. The result is a device that can keep users comfortable across a wider range of conditions and for longer periods. While the initial launch is limited to the UK and Europe, the global demand for personal cooling solutions suggests that a broader rollout is likely if the product receives positive reviews. For now, consumers in those regions can look forward to a summer of staying cool—without having to crank up the thermostat on the whole house.
Source: SlashGear News