Rakuten launched on Monday a new flea market app that will enable transactions between individuals via smartphone.
The iOS version of the app, Rakuma, is now available for download but the Android version of the app will launch on 25 November 25.
Rakuten said the app enables users to buy and sell items just like in a real flea market environment.
"Exhibiting items is a simple process and using a smartphone camera can be completed in a little as one minute. The app also allows direct communication between the seller and the buyer, making it easy and worry-free to confirm product details and negotiate a price," it said.
There are no charges for displaying a product and no charges when a transaction is completed (commission-free) and the proceeds from sale are transferred to the designated bank account as quickly as the same day on which the buyer confirms receipt of the product. It is also possible for proceeds from sale to not be transferred, but to be held over for future product purchases.
Users can select from credit card or convenience store payment to settle product purchases and it is also possible to use Rakuten Super Points for payment.
Rakuten said by introducing the app, it aims to attract younger users and further expand the online re-use market, cooperating with and complementing the operations of Rakuten Auction Inc.