Japan Pioneers Access to Starlink Satellite Data on Mobile Devices, Making History as the First Nation to Do So
In a series of exciting developments, SpaceX's Starlink technology is making strides in enhancing mobile data services worldwide. Let's take a look at some of the key developments.
Japan leads the way
KDDI, a Japanese mobile carrier, has become the first global company to offer satellite-powered data services directly to smartphones using Starlink technology. The service, named au Starlink Direct, has been open to users on various Japanese carriers, including KDDI, UQ Mobile, and povo, since its launch. The service's initial rollout includes apps like Google Maps, Weathernews, NERV Disaster Prevention, YAMAP hiking maps, SmartNews, and Elon Musk's social media platform X.
Interest in au Starlink Direct has been surging since its launch, with the company revealing in July 2025 that the service had already surpassed one million users. The service, particularly valuable for people in rural areas, hikers, and emergency responders, is currently supported on a limited range of devices, including Google's Pixel 10 lineup and Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7.
Expansion in the United States and Canada
T-Mobile in the United States is set to introduce the Starlink service starting October 1, initially supporting Google Maps, Google Messages, and Find Hub. X and WhatsApp are expected to follow. It's important to note that the service isn't limited to T-Mobile customers, but details about availability for other carriers are yet to be announced.
In Canada, the au Starlink Direct service recently launched through Rogers and is available to users on all carriers during the testing phase. The pricing for the service is around 1,650 yen (C$15 CAD/US$11) per month, with the first three months free for new sign-ups beginning September 1. However, the service expansion beyond text messages to mobile data has not been announced for Canada or the United States.
Global Reach
The service in the United States is planned to be gradually widened, with more compatible devices being added in the coming months. In a significant move, the first mobile provider outside the USA to use Starlink technology for mobile data on smartphones is Kyivstar in Ukraine, which plans to introduce satellite internet connection via Starlink by mid-2026.
These developments mark a significant step forward in the integration of satellite technology into everyday mobile data services, offering potential benefits for users in rural areas, emergency responders, and hikers, among others. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development.
