I used Sony's wearable air conditioner through a heatwave – it's 'unlike any other portable fan'

★★★★☆What we love: Alternative to a fan, wearable under clothing, and app control.Take note: A different way of thinking, and the cooling sensation can feel odd. “When it comes to personal cooling, the Sony reon pocket pro is a look at the future. This device uses cooling thermal pads that sit neatly on your back, and while there is a fan, it’s just used to expel the hot air. It’s packed with the market-leading innovation that we expect from Sony – and frankly looks like something out of a Sci-Fi movie (even more so once you hook it over your shoulders and push the contact surfaces into your back).The device is chargeable, and it becomes far easier to use once you download the companion app (Reon Pocket), enabling full adjustment of the settings and functions of the device. With direct metal plate-to-skin contact, hot air is vented away from the body above your collar (I found that some clothing adjustment was needed to ensure it remained clear). In the heat of the day, you could also just about hear the small internal fan at work, but really only if you listened out for it.The effect of the cooling on your body temperature is staggering and completely different to a standard portable fan. While it takes a little getting used to, I liked that it was wearable without adding too much weight or bulk under my clothes (although it is clear you have some type of tech attached to your back). Sony’s device offers innovative personal cooling for the tech-savvy.” Reviewed by Alastair JenningsOwing to demand, the Sony pocket pro fan ships from 7 August, but its predecessor, the reon pocket 5 is available with next day delivery (£149.99, Sony.co.uk).