First Look: Sony’s Neck Cooler Arrives Just in Time for the Heat Wave

Sony’s long-awaited Reon Pocket Pro Plus is finally making its way to U.S. consumers, and the timing couldn’t be better. As the mercury climbs and heat waves become the norm, this wearable neck cooler promises to offer a personal oasis of cool air. After spending several days putting it through its paces, here is what I found.

The device, which initially launched in Japan, has generated significant buzz for its ability to regulate body temperature by chilling the back of the neck. The core concept is simple: you wear the compact unit against your skin, and it uses a thermoelectric cooling plate to draw heat away from your body. In practice, the effect is immediate and surprisingly effective. Within seconds of powering it on, you feel a distinct, refreshing chill that can make a sweltering afternoon feel far more bearable.

The design is sleek and unobtrusive. The Pro Plus model is slightly larger than its predecessor, but it still fits comfortably under a shirt collar or behind a baseball cap. It is powered by a built-in battery that Sony claims can last for several hours on a single charge, depending on the cooling level selected. During my tests, the battery life held up well for a full workday of intermittent use, though heavy, continuous cooling will drain it faster.

Connectivity is handled through a dedicated smartphone app, which allows you to adjust the cooling intensity, set timers, and even switch to a heating mode for cooler weather. The app interface is intuitive, making it easy to fine-tune the experience. However, the device also works as a standalone unit with physical buttons, so you are not tethered to your phone.

Is it worth the investment? For anyone who struggles with heat, whether during commutes, outdoor work, or summer recreation, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus offers a practical, high-tech solution. It is not a replacement for air conditioning, but it is a remarkably effective personal cooling tool that delivers on its core promise. As heat waves grow more intense, having a portable way to stay cool is no longer a luxury, it is becoming a necessity.