[Compact] My Rakuten Mini has been getting a lot of compliments lately

Do you remember the Rakuten Mini?

It was released in 2020.

I believe it was something Rakuten Mobile gave away to new subscribers for practically free.

I really like it, and I still use it today.

It's even smaller than the iPhone 3GS I have on hand.

The screen is about 3.6 inches, and the battery is 1220mAh.

It weighs only 79g!

When you hold it, it's the size of a toy.

Even so, it can handle basic browsing and social media.

Above all, the best part is that I can use iD and PayPay on it.

It's one of the lightest smartphones for taking a walk.

I use the Rakuten Mini as my secondary device, and...

When I go for a short walk, I just take my keys and this with me.

I can complete payments at local shops with the Rakuten Mini.

It's been four years since the Rakuten Mini was released, and it seems support ended at the end of last year.

It's about time I upgraded to a new model.

But I just can't seem to find a device to replace the Rakuten Mini.

If there is one, it's some obscure overseas model.

There are very few user reviews, so I'm a bit hesitant to buy one.

Above all, the Rakuten Mini still works fine for daily use.

I wonder if a replacement model will ever come out.

It seems like there aren't many people using the Rakuten Mini anymore.

Lately, when I use my Rakuten Mini to pay for shopping,

I've had several opportunities where staff members have spoken to me about it.

"What model is this?"

"Can you still buy it now?"

"It's so small and cute."

These are the things I'm commonly asked.

At first, I was taken aback,

and I would mumble my replies while saying things like, "Um..."

But after being asked so many times,

I've started saying, "It's a device from Rakuten Mobile."

"It's small and perfect as a phone for taking walks."

"It seems like they don't sell it anymore."

I've become able to answer clearly, just like that

The other day at a bakery, I was given a mini croissant as a freebie

It's not like I'm the one being complimented

But I get the illusion that I'm the one being complimented

I don't mind it at all, and honestly, I'm happy

I like small and compact things

I love Suzuki cars and motorcycles

Miniature cars from 60s Europe,

they're so tiny and cute, I think

I used to think while watching Top Gear

Come to think of it, they're still active in Japan, aren't they?

Miniature car = Kei car

And besides, Kei cars are still Galapagos-like

The designs are cute on a level you don't see anywhere else

When I see a Canbus or a Lapin driving by

even as an old guy, I want to wave at them

Smartphones have been getting bigger and bigger since the iPhone 4 and 5

and they seem to have settled at the 6-inch size for now

They should really release more small-sized models

When I carry my Rakuten Mini around and get reactions like this

I really think there is enough demand for compact-sized smartphones

Or perhaps people say 'It's cute! But...', and end up choosing a large smartphone in the end?

Nowadays, you have so many choices for budget SIMs that you can have data-only plans for just a few hundred yen a month

I don't think it's a bad idea to have a secondary device just in case

And if that secondary device is something compact like the Rakuten Mini

the burden of carrying it around with your main device is minimal

I think a successor to the Rakuten Mini wouldn't be a bad idea at all

I want a secondary device of about this size, but I can't seem to find one that really grabs me. It would be perfect if it prioritized portability, had decent specs, supported iD, and had a tough battery...

Smartphones have been getting bigger and bigger since the iPhone 4 and 5

The world's people's car has arrived. It was a decade ago, but the Top Gear crew landed in Japan, and it's exciting to watch. EVs and HVs are great, but I think kei cars should also be getting more attention as a reasonable and eco-friendly mode of transport in the current climate.

Prime Day starts on 7/16!
If you're a Prime member, you must participate.

All Prime members should participate in this.
There is a campaign where if you purchase 5,000 yen or more in gift cards, you will receive 500 points within 35 days of purchase.

1

A stamp rally where 1 in 0 people can win up to 50,000 points

1. Prime Day point-up entry
2. Buy 2,000 yen worth of Prime-eligible products (Amazon Gift Card [Delivery Type] is fine!)
3. Listen to Amazon Music Prime (free)
4. Watch Prime Video (free)
5. Read Prime Reading (free)

I did a free trial of Kindle Unlimited (e-books) within the last year, but as expected of the Prime Sale, this time I was eligible for 3 months free. Even if you have done a free trial before, please check it out.