Introduction: Why Rakuten Mobile Now?
In recent years, Rakuten Mobile has appeared like a comet in the mobile carrier industry, attracting attention with its innovative pricing plans and unique network. However, many may wonder, “Does it really connect?” or “Is it cheap and bad?” This article thoroughly explains which users Rakuten Mobile is best suited for, delving deep into its features. This is a must-read for those who want to smartly reduce communication costs and are interested in new services.

Rakuten Mobile’s Biggest Feature: The Destructive Power of Rakuten Saikyo Plan
Rakuten Mobile’s greatest appeal lies in its “Rakuten Saikyo Plan,” where the monthly fee varies depending on data usage.

1. Up to 3GB of data usage: ¥1,078 (tax included) per month
2. Over 3GB to 20GB of data usage: ¥2,178 (tax included) per month
3. Over 20GB of data usage: ¥3,278 (tax included) per month

Furthermore, this plan offers unlimited data. In other words, no matter how much you use, the monthly fee will not exceed ¥3,278 (tax included), making it truly the “strongest” pricing plan. This offers overwhelming cost performance unmatched by other companies.

Who is Rakuten Mobile “Suited For”?
Who exactly is Rakuten Mobile, with its uniqueness and destructive power, best suited for?

1. People with inconsistent data usage or those who want to use data without worrying about capacity
Have you ever experienced “running out of data from watching too many videos this month” or “stress from slow communication speed at the end of the month”? With Rakuten Mobile, you pay less in months with low data usage, and even if you use a lot, there’s a cap, so you can use your smartphone with peace of mind without worrying about data capacity. Especially for those who frequently watch videos or play online games in places with limited Wi-Fi, or those who often use tethering, Rakuten Mobile offers the maximum benefits of unlimited data, making it an excellent choice.

2. People who want to thoroughly cut down on communication costs
If you feel your monthly smartphone bill is too high, Rakuten Mobile is a strong option. Especially for light users who use 3GB or less of data, you can maintain your smartphone for a surprisingly low monthly fee of ¥1,078 (tax included). This cost performance is comparable to, or even better than, that of low-cost SIMs. For those who have Wi-Fi at home or work and use less data outside, a dramatic reduction in communication costs can be expected.

3. People who regularly use the Rakuten Ecosystem
Rakuten Mobile has very strong ties with Rakuten Group services. It is eligible for the “SPU (Super Point Up Program)” which increases Rakuten Point accrual rates, so for those who shop frequently on Rakuten Ichiba, use Rakuten Card, Rakuten Bank, Rakuten Securities, etc., you can efficiently accumulate Rakuten Points while paying for communication fees. The accumulated points can be used not only for shopping on Rakuten Ichiba but also for paying Rakuten Mobile’s monthly fees, further reducing effective communication costs.

4. People who prioritize cost performance over quality (though quality is improving)
While Rakuten Mobile once had a reputation for poor connectivity, base station development has progressed rapidly, and communication quality has dramatically improved. Especially in urban areas and major locations, comfortable communication comparable to major carriers is possible. However, in some rural areas or indoors outside the Rakuten network area, it may connect to partner lines (au lines). Since these partner lines have a monthly capacity limit of 5GB, it is important to note that it may not always be available within the Rakuten network area. Nevertheless, for those who prioritize overwhelming affordability even with some inconvenience, it has reached a level that will be sufficiently satisfying.

5. People interested in the latest technology and new services
Rakuten Mobile actively introduces advanced services such as eSIM support, free domestic calls via the Rakuten Link app (excluding some), and free overseas data usage (up to 2GB). It is an attractive carrier for technology-forward users who want to quickly enjoy the benefits of new technologies and services and experience something new without being bound by the conventions of existing carriers.

Who is Rakuten Mobile “Not Suited For”?
On the other hand, there are also users for whom Rakuten Mobile may not be optimal.

1. People who prioritize communication stability in rural and mountainous areas: While Rakuten’s network area is expanding, it does not yet cover every corner of the country. Especially if you frequently use it outside the Rakuten network area, the partner line’s capacity limit may become a bottleneck.
2. People who prioritize call quality: Calls via the Rakuten Link app are free, but since it’s an IP phone, the sound quality may be slightly inferior compared to regular phone lines. This might be a concern for those who frequently need clear calls for business.
3. People who want to fully utilize the latest iPhone features (some feature limitations): While Rakuten Mobile’s iPhone support is progressing, some carrier-specific features (e.g., emergency alert mail reception settings) may not be exactly the same as with major carriers.

Conclusion: Rakuten Mobile is the Carrier for Those Who Want to Communicate “Smartly and Freely”
Rakuten Mobile has brought significant changes to the Japanese telecommunications industry with its innovative pricing plans and unique network strategy. From heavy users who want to use data without worrying about capacity, to light users who want to thoroughly cut down on communication costs, and residents of the Rakuten Ecosystem, it is a carrier that can offer benefits to a wide range of users.

The former image of “poor connectivity” is becoming a thing of the past, and communication quality is steadily improving. If you are questioning your expensive communication fees and want to use your smartphone more “smartly and freely,” Rakuten Mobile is definitely one of the options you should consider.

Rakuten Mobile is truly an “unconventional” player revolutionizing communication norms, and its true value could make it the “best partner” for many users.

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