During the third heatwave of the year, staying cool while on the move is essential. Sony's wearable air conditioner, the REON Pocket Pro, offers a smart upgrade to plastic-looking neck fans. Delivering hands-free, personal cooling wherever you go, the device is compact, comfortable, and discreet.
How the Sony REON Pocket Pro Works
The Sony REON Pocket 5 launched last year, and the all-new Pocket Plus air conditioner debuted in May. Both are designed to be worn at the base of the neck, beneath clothes, cooling the entire body through cooling plates. This innovative alternative to handheld fans provides icy relief rather than merely circulating air.
According to Standard Shopping’s tech writer Alastair Jennings, who reviewed the latest model: “The effect of the cooling on your body temperature is staggering and completely different to a standard portable fan.” The new REON Pocket Plus sold out everywhere during the last heatwave but is now back in stock, though it only ships after 7 August.
Review: Sony REON Pocket Pro
Alastair Jennings rated the device 4 out of 5 stars. He praised it as an alternative to a fan, wearable under clothing, and with app control. He noted that the cooling sensation can feel odd and requires a different way of thinking.
“When it comes to personal cooling, the Sony REON Pocket Pro is a look at the future. This device uses cooling thermal pads that sit neatly on your back, and while there is a fan, it’s just used to expel the hot air. It’s packed with market-leading innovation – and frankly looks like something out of a Sci-Fi movie,” Jennings wrote.
The device is chargeable and becomes far easier to use once you download the companion app (Reon Pocket), enabling full adjustment of settings and functions. With direct metal plate-to-skin contact, hot air is vented away from the body above your collar. Jennings noted that some clothing adjustment was needed to ensure the vent remained clear.
In the heat of the day, the small internal fan could be heard if listened for, but it was not intrusive. Jennings found the cooling effect staggering and completely different from a standard portable fan. While it takes some getting used to, he liked that it was wearable without adding too much weight or bulk under clothes, although it is clear you have some type of tech attached to your back.
Availability and Pricing
Owing to demand, the Sony REON Pocket Pro ships from 7 August. Its predecessor, the REON Pocket 5, is available for delivery from 9 July at £149.99 from Sony.co.uk. The REON Pocket Pro is priced at £199.
