Sony Launches Reon Pocket Pro Plus Wearable Air Conditioner In Time For Summer Heatwaves

Sony's latest wearable air conditioner promises to keep you cool even in the most intense heatwaves—without strapping on a backpack. The Japanese electronics giant today launched the Reon Pocket Pro Plus, a pocket-sized thermo device designed to be worn against the nape of the neck, just in time for the Northern Hemisphere's summer heatwaves. The device is the third generation of Sony's personal cooling line, following the original Reon Pocket from 2019 and the Reon Pocket Pro from 2022. The Pro Plus model claims a 30% improvement in cooling speed and a battery life of up to 10 hours on low mode, according to Sony's press materials. It uses thermoelectric Peltier technology to create a cooling effect against the skin, controlled via a smartphone app. The device weighs 145 grams and costs $180, with availability starting June 1, 2026, in Japan, South Korea, and select Southeast Asian markets. A global rollout is expected later in the summer. Sony's target users include outdoor workers, commuters, and anyone suffering from heat-related discomfort. "We have seen a surge in demand for personal cooling solutions as climate change makes summers more extreme," said Tatsuro Ogawa, a Sony product manager, in a statement. The Reon Pocket Pro Plus represents Sony's bet on niche wearable electronics beyond headphones and cameras. With global average temperatures rising, the market for wearable air conditioners is projected to grow 15% annually through 2030. The Pro Plus faces competition from wearable fan brands like Torras and pocket evaporative coolers, but uses thermoelectric chips for genuine cooling without water. Sony's long-term plan includes integrating the cooling system into clothing. For now, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus is a standalone accessory that clips onto specialized shirts or can be held in a pocket. Early reviews from Japanese tech outlets praise the faster cooling but note the device is still noticeable under tight clothing. Availability outside Asia remains unconfirmed, but Sony has opened a website for global interest registration. The summer of 2026 may be the test that determines whether wearable AC becomes a must-have or a niche gadget.