Sony’s Cooling Neck Device Is Coming to the US, and I Got a First Look

Sony is finally bringing its wearable air conditioner to the United States, and early tests suggest it could be a game-changer for hot summer commutes and outdoor work. The Reon Pocket Pro Plus, a neck-mounted cooling and heating device that uses a Peltier thermoelectric module, offers a portable solution for personal temperature control. After spending several days testing the device ahead of its US launch, CNET found it to be surprisingly effective in moderate heat, though battery life and comfort remain key considerations.

Sony first introduced the Reon Pocket in Japan in 2020, following a successful crowdfunding campaign. The concept was simple: a compact, lightweight module that clips into a specially designed neckband and uses thermoelectric cooling to lower the temperature around the user's neck. The original model was popular enough to generate two subsequent iterations, culminating in the Pro Plus, which Sony is now bringing to American consumers for the first time. The US launch marks a significant expansion for a product category that has mostly been confined to Asia and parts of Europe.

The Reon Pocket Pro Plus is small enough to fit in the palm of a hand, weighing just 130 grams. It connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone app that allows users to adjust cooling or heating levels, set timers, and toggle between different modes. The device offers three cooling levels and three heating levels, using a Peltier element to transfer heat away from the skin. In practice, the cooling sensation is immediate on the highest setting, dropping the skin temperature by several degrees within seconds. However, the battery life ranges from about 3.5 hours on the highest cooling setting to roughly 8 hours on low, meaning users may need to recharge during a full workday.

Despite its promise, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus has limitations. It works best in temperatures up to about 30°C (86°F); in higher heat or direct sunlight, the effectiveness drops noticeably. The device also requires wearing a specific neckband, which some testers found slightly bulky under collars. Additionally, the cooling is concentrated on the back of the neck rather than the entire body, so it is more a personal comfort aid than a full-body cooling solution. Sony has priced the Pro Plus at $199 in the US, positioning it as a premium health gadget rather than an everyday necessity.

Broader implications point to a growing demand for wearable climate control, especially as global temperatures rise and more people work in hybrid environments. Analysts note that Sony's entry into the US market validates the category, potentially encouraging competitors like Embr Labs or Torras to accelerate their own offerings. The device also taps into the wider trend of 'personal cooling' that spans from air-conditioned vests to desk fans. However, the high price point and limited battery may keep the Reon Pocket in a niche for now, appealing mainly to outdoor workers, commuters in hot cities, and tech enthusiasts willing to pay for comfort.

What happens next is crucial for Sony. The company aims to launch the Reon Pocket Pro Plus on its official website and via major retailers later this year. Availability in stores will determine whether the device can reach a mainstream audience. Sony has also hinted at future software updates that could add new features like adaptive temperature control based on heart rate or ambient temperature. If the Pro Plus finds a loyal following, it could pave the way for a broader lineup of wearable climate devices, including a version with longer battery life or integrated fans. For now, early adopters have a compelling—if imperfect—tool to beat the heat on the go.