Sony Reon Pocket 5 is a ‘wearable’ air conditioner that will keep you cool on your commute

Summer or not, air conditioners have gradually gone from being a luxury to a necessity. But unless you travel to work in an air-conditioned car or bus, there are limitations and instances where you don’t have the privilege of enjoying some chill on a hot, sunny day. 

While Sony, only last year, decided to tackle this issue by introducing a ‘pocket’ AC that you can effortlessly carry on your travels, there was still no clarity as to when a user might actually be able to purchase one. However, the brand recently unveiled the Sony Reon Pocket 5, along with its prices and features, for the global market.

Sony Reon Pocket 5: Key features and specifications

The Sony Reon Pocket 5, for one, is a wearable thermo device that is just about the size of your palm. However, it can do more than just cool you on a sweltering summer’s day.

Depending on the temperature, the Sony Reon Pocket 5 will cool — or warm — your body using its five built-in sensors. Three of these plate-like modules are for temperature, humidity and motion. 

ALSO READ: Different types of portable ACs you can consider buying

The Reon Pocket 5 can sit on your neck without weighing you down and can be controlled using the Sony Reon Pocket smartphone app. It typically works with a small fan that pulls the warm (or cold) air out of your body.

That said, it is crucial to note that the AC will not warm or cool the wearer’s face. The Sony Reon Pocket 5 takes about two hours to fully charge and can last up to 17 hours with the rechargeable battery. 

The air vents that dispel warm air are built to discharge behind your neck to keep you cool at all times. The Reon Pocket 5 has an ergonomic shape and build, and Sony also claims that it does not tend to get uncomfortable over time. 

Sony Reon Pocket 5: Pricing and availability

The Sony Reon Pocket 5 is available for ¥13,000 (roughly Rs 9,000). The wearable air conditioner is currently only available in Japan, however similar iterations are available in Hong Kong as well.

While Sony has announced the expansion to the UK market as well, as of today, there’s no saying when the device will be further expanded in Asia. However, with the heat wave in place, this move by Sony is certainly the positive direction we need.