SpaceX’s Starlink technology has officially taken a step beyond text messaging, with Japan’s KDDI becoming the first mobile carrier worldwide to offer satellite-powered data services directly to smartphones. The breakthrough means users in Japan can now access apps like Google Maps, weather updates, and even Elon Musk’s social media platform X while traveling through cellular dead zones.
Until now, satellite-to-smartphone connections on Starlink’s Direct to Cell network were limited to SMS messaging. KDDI’s new service, branded as au Starlink Direct, extends that capability to mobile data, enabling essential apps to function where traditional cellular coverage falls short.
The feature is initially supported on a small range of devices, including Google’s latest Pixel 10 lineup and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7. KDDI has confirmed that more compatible devices will be added in the coming months, gradually widening access.
Supported apps in the first rollout include Google Maps, Weathernews, NERV Disaster Prevention, YAMAP hiking maps, SmartNews, and X, making the service particularly valuable for people in rural areas, hikers, and emergency responders.
Interest in KDDI’s au Starlink Direct has been surging since its launch. In July 2025, the company revealed that the service had already surpassed one million users, thanks to demand from those living or traveling in underserved areas. Earlier upgrades also improved performance dramatically, reducing SMS transmission times from as long as two minutes to under 30 seconds.
For pricing, au Starlink Direct costs around 1,650 yen (C$15 CAD/US$11) per month, though KDDI is offering the first three months free to new sign-ups beginning September 1. Importantly, the service isn’t limited to au customers—it is also open to users on other Japanese carriers, including UQ Mobile and povo.
While Japan takes the lead, the rollout provides a preview of what customers in other countries can expect. In Canada the service recently launched through Rogers, but is available to users on all carriers during the testing phase. There has been no word on when the service will expand beyond text messages.
In the United States, T-Mobile plans to introduce similar satellite data services starting October 1, initially supporting Google Maps, Google Messages, and Find Hub, with X and WhatsApp expected to follow.
