Mercari announced the launch of its 'Mercari Mobile' service, officially entering the MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) market, starting March 4, 2025. By leveraging DOCOMO's network, Mercari aims to reshape how mobile services are accessed and managed by consumers.
A key feature of 'Mercari Mobile' is its simplicity and integration with existing Mercari services. Users are provided with two straightforward plans: 2GB for 990 yen monthly and 20GB for 2,390 yen. These plans encompass voice, SMS, and data communication services, allowing for seamless usage.
What truly sets 'Mercari Mobile' apart is the innovative function allowing users to trade gigabytes between themselves directly through the Mercari app. For many, the concept of buying and selling data is revolutionary. This flexibility permits users with surplus gigabytes to trade them with those who find themselves short on data, effectively optimizing usage.
According to Takashi Nagasawa, Mercari’s executive officer and the CEO of Merpay, this new offering addresses significant gaps prevalent within the current mobile market. "Approximately 65% of consumers feel they have either too much or too little monthly data communication volume." He noted this disconnect at the launch press conference. This gap is prominent; among those with excess gigabytes, 75% do nothing productive with it or simply roll it over, often letting it go to waste.
With the 'Mercari Mobile' app, users can manage not just their subscriptions but actively buy or sell their data as needed. The listed prices for gigabytes start from 200 yen per transaction. Users can quickly load their purchased data, just as they would with any other Mercari transaction.
Nagasawa explained how this solution could disrupt traditional barriers, "Those with excess gigabytes often do nothing or roll them over without using, and those without enough frequently buy more, showing the disconnect between plans and actual usage needs." He suggested this newly established trading platform could become commonplace as more consumers seek to maximize their contracted services.
'Mercari Mobile' began with eSIM technology exclusively for iOS applications, with plans for Android support rolling out progressively. Initial payment methods will be limited to Mercari Card and Mercari Smart Pay, aiming to evolve as more users adopt the service.
Looking to the future, Nagasawa confirmed additional features are on the radar for 'Mercari Mobile.' These will include physical SIM card options, increased data packages, and integration with other service platforms under the Mercari umbrella. "This trend is still accelerating, and one of the reasons for our entry is this," Nagasawa stated about the increased market demand and the shifting user preferences away from traditional mobile operators like SoftBank and AU.
Meanwhile, the use of DOCOMO’s network provides reliability, and as the market evolves, Mercari will be positioned to explore various avenues to meet service needs through flat-rate calling options and diverse payment methods.
Through all these upcoming enhancements, Nagasawa alluded to the synergy between Mercari’s existing marketplace and 'Mercari Mobile,' indicating potential discounts or benefits for users engaged with both platforms, which could serve to encourage adoption and usage.
Clearly, there’s much to look forward to with 'Mercari Mobile,' not just for the company but also for consumers who now find themselves at the forefront of innovation within Japan’s mobile service ecosystem. With such inventive measures, Mercari aspires to cater effectively to the growing digital demands of the marketplace, ensuring they stay relevant as technology evolves.