Rakuten Insight Launches AI Interview Tool for Consumer Research

Tokyo, Japan - Rakuten Insight Inc. began trial operations on Friday of an interview function that uses artificial intelligence to generate consumer profiles from survey data.

The feature, part of the company's "Rakuraku Profile" analysis tool, creates interactive profiles from survey responses that researchers can query via a chat interface.

The Tokyo-based company said the system addresses gaps in traditional survey data by allowing users to probe consumer motivations and decision-making processes through conversational exchanges.

The platform includes two AI assistants.

One provides guidance on interview techniques, while the other offers specialized support developed with input from Rikie Ishii, a creative engineering consultant who has worked with more than 600 organizations. 

Ishii, who teaches at Waseda University and Meijo University, incorporated methodologies intended to prompt human analysis rather than deliver ready-made conclusions.

The tool draws on lifestyle data from approximately 400,000 individuals across 1,700 categories, including consumer preferences, product usage patterns, and media consumption habits.

Rakuten Insight said the system serves two functions: identifying analytical angles when survey data proves insufficient, and substituting for traditional ideation workshops when time or budget constraints exist.

Access during the trial period is limited to organizations that have previously contracted with Rakuten Insight for survey research.

The company plans to make the service commercially available in mid-February 2026.

No fees will apply during the trial phase.