Sony has unveiled its latest wearable innovation, diverging from commonplace smartwatches, fitness trackers, or AI-enhanced glasses - this one prioritizes practicality. The Reon Pocket Pro Plus marks the newest evolution of the company's neck-mounted cooling device. Launched initially as a 2019 crowdfunding success, the Reon series expanded through Asia and limited Western markets; now, this upgraded variant targets the UK and Europe.

How the Sony Wearable Delivers Cooling

Far beyond a basic collar fan, the Reon Pocket Pro Plus harnesses the Peltier effect via an electrically cooled metal plate positioned at the neck's base. This strategic location leverages near-surface blood vessels for rapid, perceptible cooling. Sony reports a 2-degree Celsius - or 3.6-degree Fahrenheit - enhancement in cooling efficacy over the prior model.

Sony highlights a 20% overall performance uplift, bolstered by an advanced cooling algorithm that tracks temperature fluctuations on the device and in the environment.

Retaining the core design of the earlier Reon Pocket Pro, it nestles at the nape under clothing, aided by a compact fan for airflow. Key refinements include superior ergonomics for steadfast positioning across neck and shoulders, eliminating slippage concerns during movement. A new automatic shutdown safeguards against overheating.

New Additions and Specs

Sony pairs the Reon Pocket Pro Plus with a slimmer second-generation Pocket Tag that gauges ambient temperature and humidity to optimize cooling. A companion app enables manual overrides and personalization, yet full functionality requires no smartphone. Fully charged, it sustains up to 10 hours on the second-highest cooling mode.

Priced at £199 in the UK and €220 in Europe, the device launches imminently, though US availability remains unconfirmed.