I've been testing Sony's new wearable AC and it's changed the way I survive summer heat — the tech is actually genius

Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus photographed in front of a blue background
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

This is the secret gadget that nobody knows you're wearing, but keeps you cool or warm based on your environment. The Reon Pocket Pro Plus has seriously changed the way I've been regulating my body temperature while at home, out and about, or at the office.

It offers cooling and warming settings, meaning that I've always been able to have my perfect temperature no matter the weather. I've always used handheld fans, but this year I'm going to rely on the Reon.

At the time of writing, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus isn't available in the U.S. market. That release is planned for Summer 2026, so it's not too long to wait, and you can sign up for launch news on Sony's website. It's currently available to purchase in the U.K. for £199 on Amazon.

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Reon Pocket Pro Plus
Reon Pocket Pro Plus: £199 at Amazon

The Reon Pocket Pro Plus is a unique, customizable personal temperature-regulation device that provides effective heating and cooling at the click of a button. At the time of writing, it's only available for purchase in the U.K., but it will be launching in the U.S. for Summer 2026. I appreciate the responsive, easy-to-navigate app and Smart Modes that eliminate constant manual adjustments. The battery can last a full working day, and your phone can be used as a remote for easy control.

How the Reon works

Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus photographed on a gray background

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

It's not a fan, and it's not a heater. So what is it?

Well, the Reon is unlike any thermo device I've used before. It is worn on your back under your clothes and works by using a stainless steel plate that sits at the top of your back to heat and cool the skin.

When the blood vessels under the skin detect this temperature change, it tricks your internal thermostat into thinking you're cooler or warmer than you are. And I was surprised at how quickly this works.

There's a tiny fan at the top of the device that pulls air through; this is connected to a vent that sticks out of the top of your shirt, but it's hardly noticeable. And if you have long hair like me, you can't see it at all. It's also completely silent.

Surprisingly comfortable

Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus and sensor photographed on a gray background

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

When I first checked out the design of the Reon, I had to admit, I was a little skeptical. I mean, this thing has arms that wrap around my neck to keep it in place, and I wasn't sure if that was going to be entirely comfortable for the day. But oh, how wrong I was.

Once I found the correct positioning for the arms, I felt totally secure. But that said, this isn't something you'd be able to wear while working out; it's just ideal for temperature control while walking or lounging around.

How it compares for the summer

swappable vent of the Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

So, as we head into the summer, how does the Reon hold up when compared to other cooling devices?

First of all, the Reon is discreet. It's not like a handheld fan where you need to be wafting it around your face to feel the effects. It's going to take on the heat like a silent assassin.

You also have a lot more control than when you use a handheld fan. Take the Dyson HushJet Mini Cool, for example. It's the hottest — or should I say coolest — fan on the market right now, but you can't make actual temperature adjustments. It just blows air at you for sweat to evaporate from your skin quicker. You can actually select the temperature you want with the Reon Pocket Pro Plus.

I'm excited to get using the Reon through the summer months and to find out more about the thermo device, including more information on the U.S. launch, you can read my full Reon Pocket Pro Plus review.


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Ashley Thieme
Staff writer, Reviews

Ashley is a staff writer on the the Reviews team at Tom’s Guide. She has a master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and a BA in Journalism, Media and Sociology. She has written for titles including Women’s Health UK, writing health and wellness stories, and Virgin Radio UK, specializing in entertainment news and celebrity interviews. She has reported on a variety of topics including music, literature, motorsport, entertainment and health. She has previously reviewed live music events, books, and wellness products but discovering the top audio equipment on the market is what she does best. When she is not testing out the latest tech, you can find her either curled up with a cup of tea and a good novel or out hiking.

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