#Japan #Tokyo #Samsung Galaxy #KDDI #au Starlink

Samsung Galaxy Embraces Satellite Communication

On April 10, 2025, KDDI Corporation (au) will launch a groundbreaking direct satellite communication service named 'au Starlink Direct,’ compatible with all 20 Samsung Galaxy devices, including the recently unveiled Samsung Galaxy S25 series. This service marks a first for Japan, allowing users to communicate directly with satellites even in areas with limited coverage.

In collaboration with KDDI, Samsung Electronics Japan aims to integrate cutting-edge technology into its devices, ensuring that customers enjoy reliable communication, especially in emergency situations. The service aims to reach areas where mobile signals are sparse, enhancing communication abilities for users residing in remote regions or during natural disasters. This initiative boosts the coverage of the existing au network, which already exceeds 99.9% in terms of population but only covers around 60% of the land area due to Japan's unique topography.

How 'au Starlink Direct' Works

'Au Starlink Direct' utilizes existing radio frequencies from au, linking au smartphones to Starlink satellites when conditions allow for a clear view of the sky. By ensuring connectivity in challenging environments, this service allows users to send and receive text messages, share their location, and even receive critical emergency alerts, including seismic warnings and tsunami alerts.

Android users will also benefit from the integration of Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, which will assist in queries via text messages. This added feature bolsters the service's utility, especially in emergency scenarios, enabling users to seek information quickly and effectively.

For those with an au device, accessing this service will be complimentary initially, requiring no sign-up or registration. As KDDI and Samsung expand their partnership, they plan to gradually increase the number of compatible devices, ensuring broader accessibility for more customers.

Supported Samsung Galaxy Models

The following devices are eligible for 'au Starlink Direct':

• - Samsung Galaxy S25 | S25 Ultra | S24 | S24 Ultra | S24 FE | S23 | S23 Ultra | S23 FE | S22 | S22 Ultra
• - Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 | Fold5 | Fold4
• - Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 | Flip5 | Flip4
• - Samsung Galaxy A55 5G | A54 5G | A53 5G | A25 5G

As additional devices are considered for compatibility, users can look forward to future updates adding even more options.

Service Availability and Information

The 'au Starlink Direct' service will be available throughout Japan (all 47 prefectures and territorial waters), provided users are in an environment where the sky is visible and outside existing au 5G/4G coverage areas.

Services Available via 'au Starlink Direct':

• - Sending and receiving text messages (SMS/RCS)
• - Sharing location information
• - Accessing assistance from the Gemini AI on Android devices
• - Receiving emergency alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and national security notifications

It's noteworthy that the service will initially be free of charge, making this innovative communication solution accessible to many users without any commitment.

In announcing this service, KDDI also introduced a series of promotional discounts: a maximum of 16,500 yen off for switching to a Samsung Galaxy S25 or S25 Ultra, and up to 22,000 yen off when opting for the Galaxy S24 FE. These promotions run until June 1, 2025, providing further incentives for users to upgrade their devices.

With this advancement, not only will Samsung Galaxy users enjoy enhanced connectivity, but it also underscores the significance of satellite technology in bridging communication gaps in Japan’s diverse landscape. For further details on the service and promotions, customers can visit the official au website.