KDDI First to Launch Data Satellite Communication on au Starlink Direct
―Starting today, users can access essential apps like maps, weather, and news for use in remote areas―
KDDI CORPORATION
Okinawa Cellular Telephone Company
TOKYO―August 28, 2025―KDDI today announced a groundbreaking advancement in mobile connectivity with the launch of data support for au Starlink Direct, its direct satellite-to-smartphone service. This global first allows users to access essential apps directly via satellite, in areas with no cellular coverage.
Previously limited to text messaging, au Starlink Direct now enables data usage for a variety of third-party applications. This is made possible by Starlink Direct to Cell satellites, which acts like a cellphone tower in space.
Initial support will begin with the Google Pixel 10 series and Galaxy Z Fold7 / Flip7, with plans to expand to more devices in the future. The first wave of supported apps is focused on those especially useful in remote or off-grid environments, including Google Maps for navigation, Weathernews for critical weather updates, NERV Disaster Prevention for emergency information, YAMAP for hiking trail maps, and X for real-time information and communication.
With the integration of au Starlink Direct, KDDI has effectively extended its network to cover all of Japan, supplementing its existing 5G and 4G LTE services. This milestone reinforces KDDI's commitment to its vision of "Connecting the Unconnected. Wherever you see the sky".
■Initial Supported Android™ Apps
| Maps & Navigation |
|
|---|---|
| Weather |
|
| Outdoor & Marine |
|
| News |
|
| Social Network Service |
|
| Messaging |
|
| Safety |
|
Support for additional apps will continue to expand.
■Compatible Devices
- Google Pixel 10 / 10 Pro / 10 Pro XL / 10 Pro Fold
- Galaxy Z Fold7 / Flip7
Support for additional devices will continue to expand.
For more details, please visit au Starlink Direct website.
■Special Offer for Non-au Users
au Starlink Direct is also available for users on other carriers, including KDDI's UQ mobile and povo. Normally priced at 1,650 yen/month, the first three months will be free for users signing up after September 1. For au users, the service is already included in their plan.
■About au Starlink Direct
"au Starlink Direct" is a groundbreaking service that directly connects smartphones to Starlink satellites, bringing connectivity to areas where traditional cell service doesn't reach. In addition to text messaging, sharing location data, receiving emergency earthquake alerts, and consulting with an AI, users can also use data satellite communication with essential apps.
While au's network coverage boasts over 99.9% of the population, its area coverage is around 60% due to Japan's unique geography. "au Starlink Direct" extends connectivity to the remaining 40% of the country, providing essential communication for daily use and emergencies. The service is available to both existing "au" customers and customers who have contracts with other carriers.
- *The information contained in the articles is current at the time of publication.
Products, service fees, service content and specifications, contact information, and other details are subject to change without notice.
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