Starlink satellite communication is finally available on Docomo and SoftBank, and will be free for Docomo and Ahamo users, with service starting on April 27, 2026.
NTT Docomo has announced that it will begin offering ' docomo Starlink Direct, ' a direct communication service between Starlink satellites and smartphones, starting April 27, 2026. SoftBank has also announced that it will begin offering a direct communication service with Starlink.
docomo Starlink Direct | Services | NTT DOCOMO
NTT DOCOMO to launch 'docomo Starlink Direct,' a direct communication service between Starlink satellites and smartphones, starting April 27th | News | NTT DOCOMO
https://www.docomo.ne.jp/info/news_release/2026/04/02_01.html
docomo Starlink Direct is a service offered to docomo and ahamo users that allows them to connect to the internet by directly communicating with Starlink satellites when they are outside the docomo 5G/4G LTE coverage area and do not have a Wi-Fi connection. No application is required, and it is free to use for the time being. Also, for the time being, internet access via Starlink will not be counted towards the data allowance of your data plan.
The target area is all of Japan and within 12 nautical miles of the coastline.
To use satellite communication, the app itself must support it. On an iPhone, you can check if the app you are using supports satellite communication by going to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Satellite.
On Android devices, you can check compatible apps by tapping 'Settings' → 'Network & Internet' → 'SIM' → 'NTT DOCOMO' → 'Satellite Connection'.
Additionally, within the service area, you can receive emergency alert emails via satellite communication during disasters.
SoftBank has also announced that it will offer a similar service. However, as of the time of writing, it has only been revealed that a 'direct communication service between satellites and smartphones using Starlink' will be offered, and details such as the service name, launch date, and pricing are expected to be announced soon.
Regarding the provision of direct communication services between satellites and smartphones using 'Starlink' | Corporate & IR | SoftBank
https://www.softbank.jp/corp/news/press/sbkk/2026/20260402_01/
Please note that au released 'au Starlink Direct' on April 10, 2025.
au Starlink Direct | Services & Features | au
https://www.au.com/mobile/service/starlink-direct/
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in Web Service, Smartphone, Posted by log1o_hf