Rakuten Launches AI Agent Tool for Mobile Platform

Tokyo, Japan - Rakuten Group Inc. and Rakuten Mobile Inc. announced on Wednesday the launch of an artificial intelligence agent tool called "Rakuten AI," which has been integrated into the Rakuten Link mobile application.

The AI tool is available at no cost to Rakuten Mobile subscribers through the Rakuten Link communication application and to Rakuten ID holders via a dedicated beta web application.

Rakuten stated it plans to integrate the tool into its Rakuten Market e-commerce platform in the fall of 2025.

The company said the AI agent operates within what it terms the "Rakuten ecosystem," connecting shopping, financial technology, travel, and entertainment services.

The tool offers text input, voice-to-text conversion, and image search functions, allowing users to access information through AI-generated follow-up questions and multiple prompt options.

The web application features AI chat capabilities, AI search functions, voice dialogue, translation, AI reading, coding, and image creation capabilities.

As of July 2025, the system integrates with four services: Rakuten Market, Rakuten Rakuma, Rakuten Books, and Rakuten Fashion.

Ting Cai, Rakuten's Group Chief AI and Data Officer, stated that the launch marks a significant step in Rakuten's AI strategy.

Cai said the tool is designed to facilitate research and support autonomous decision-making for users of the company's services.

Rakuten described the initiative as part of an effort to introduce AI agents across its service portfolio.

The company said Rakuten AI will connect users to company services.

The tool was previously offered as "Rakuten AI Assistant" in beta form beginning in November 2024.

The current version was launched for iOS users, with Android availability planned for future release.

Rakuten Link requires a Rakuten Mobile subscription for access, while the web application permits unlimited usage for Rakuten ID account holders.

Users without Rakuten IDs face usage limitations until they log in, with the company noting that these restrictions may change.

The planned Rakuten Market integration will utilize data from user shopping behavior, preferences, and purchasing patterns to provide product recommendations through specialized AI agents, according to the announcement.

Rakuten announced its intention to expand the use of artificial intelligence in its business operations.

The company stated that it will continue to utilize data and AI across its services.