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Starlink Satellite Connectivity Pushes Into Mobile Phone International Roaming

Space2 min read

Starlink satellite service is moving into mobile phone roaming in Japan. Three Japanese carriers now offer it, letting phones send texts and use some data where no local network reaches.

What happened

Japan's three big mobile carriers, KDDI, NTT Docomo, and SoftBank, have all launched Starlink satellite roaming. It lets an ordinary smartphone connect straight to a low-orbit satellite when no local mobile network or Wi-Fi is available. Users can send text messages and use some data services, such as maps, weather, and location, without a separate satellite phone.

Key numbers and facts

  • KDDI was first. It started in the United States in March and then added Canada, the Philippines, New Zealand, and Australia.
  • NTT Docomo joined on September 1, and SoftBank joined on September 28.
  • NTT Docomo added Australia and New Zealand to Pakistan-free coverage areas that already included the United States, Canada, and the Philippines, and raised its supported phones to 48 models, including iPhone 13 and later and Samsung Galaxy phones.
  • KDDI says it is the first in the world to offer international roaming that links a regular smartphone directly to Starlink satellites.
  • KDDI plans to offer voice calls and fast data in 2027 using its next-generation Starlink Mobile V2 satellites.

How it works

Japanese carriers use the satellite networks of local partner carriers that work with Starlink. Examples include T-Mobile in the United States, Rogers Communications in Canada, and Globe Telecom in the Philippines. Users keep their existing phone plans, so they do not need a new line. Right now the service mainly covers texts and some app data. Normal voice calls and fast data are limited.

Why it matters

Roaming has long depended on ground towers, so travelers lose signal in remote areas. Satellite roaming can fill those gaps using a phone they already own. An industry official said satellite roaming is not yet strong enough to compete on its own. But as more carriers partner with Starlink, the service may spread. It may also help Starlink stand out from other low-orbit satellite companies.

What to watch

  • Whether more carriers in other countries sign up for Starlink satellite roaming.
  • Whether KDDI delivers voice calls and fast data with its V2 satellites in 2027.
  • How many phone models and countries are added over time.

Glossary

Roaming
Using your phone service in another country or area by connecting to a local network.
KDDI
A major Japanese mobile phone carrier.
NTT Docomo
The largest mobile phone carrier in Japan.
SoftBank
A Japanese telecom company that runs a mobile phone service.

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