Japanese tech giant Rakuten Symphony has officially launched its cloud storage service, Rakuten Drive, in Japan. The service offers 10GB of free storage, but the standout feature is its unlimited file transfer service.
Rakuten Drive caters to both individual and enterprise customers, providing fast file transfers and secure cloud storage and sharing. The service also integrates Microsoft 365 productivity apps for real-time document editing.
Originally known as Sendy in 2019, Rakuten Drive was acquired by Rakuten Symphony in 2021. The service has since experienced significant growth and is now available for commercial use.
CEO of Rakuten Symphony Korea, Ryan Son, emphasized the importance of secure file management for both personal and business use. The service is integrated with Rakuten ID, allowing existing Rakuten members in Japan to access it with their current login credentials.
Rakuten Symphony ensures strict data storage and security policies for Rakuten Drive. The company plans to continue developing features for the B2B market and potentially integrate with Rakuten’s loyalty program, Rakuten Points.
For users in need of more storage and features, Rakuten Drive PRO is available for $7.99 per month. This paid version offers increased storage, larger file upload sizes, and customizable link expiration times.
In tests conducted on Rakuten Drive, the service demonstrated decent sync speeds, efficient file recovery, and unique versioning capabilities. While the service has its advantages, users may experience some speed and performance issues, as well as limited integration with third-party apps.
Overall, Rakuten Drive presents a compelling option for users seeking reliable and affordable cloud storage solutions. However, it may face challenges in gaining brand recognition and adapting to user preferences accustomed to other platforms. Users are encouraged to consider their individual needs and preferences before choosing Rakuten Drive as their cloud storage solution.