#Japan #Tokyo #au Starlink #Galaxy Z Fold7 #Z Flip7

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 Collaborate with au Starlink Direct

On August 28, 2025, Samsung Electronics Japan officially announced that its cutting-edge foldable smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, will support the new satellite direct communication service, au Starlink Direct, provided by KDDI Corporation (au). This service allows users to communicate even in areas where cellular coverage is traditionally absent, as long as they can see the sky.

The au Starlink Direct service enables users to exchange messages and location information, as well as access data communication through compatible applications. Customers using au services can start utilizing this feature today by simply performing a software update on their devices. In collaboration with au, Samsung aims to integrate state-of-the-art technology rapidly, ensuring a safe and reliable user experience. As part of this initiative, a total of 20 Samsung Galaxy smartphone models became compatible with au Starlink Direct back in April 2025, particularly targeting areas with limited connectivity and providing reliable communication solutions during disasters.

Overview of au Starlink Direct Satellite Data Communication

The au Starlink Direct service is set to expand its compatibility with a range of applications that are particularly useful in areas without cellular service. Initially, it will support popular apps such as Google Maps for navigation, Weathernews for weather updates, and YAMAP for hiking information, among others. This phase will kick off with 19 different applications.

Supported Samsung Devices

The two devices currently compatible with au Starlink Direct satellite data communication are:

• - Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
• - Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7

Further devices will be added to the compatibility list over time.

Eligibility

This service is available to customers using either the Z Fold7 or Z Flip7 with an au plan, whether personal or corporate. Unfortunately, devices from other carriers are not supported at this time.

App Compatibility (Android)

While a number of apps, including those developed by Samsung, are lined up for compatibility, updates may be rolled out gradually. Some apps may experience discrepancies in functionality depending on their specific requirements.

How to Update Software for Satellite Data Communication

To enable satellite data communication on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 or Z Flip7, users must ensure their software is up to date. Here’s a brief guide:
1. Update Software to the Latest Version: Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install > Restart Now.
2. Update Google Play Services: Navigate to Settings > Device Information > Software Information > Google Play System Update > Download and Install > Restart Now.
Make sure to log in to your Google account before proceeding with these updates.
3. Verify Device Information: After completing the previous steps, ensure that the specific versions are updated by checking Settings > Device Information > Software Information.

More on au Starlink Direct

The au Starlink Direct service connects smartphones directly to Starlink satellites, allowing communication even in the most remote parts of Japan where cellular coverage is limited. Despite the 99.9% population coverage rate from au, the geographical conditions of Japan lead to a coverage area of approximately 60%. By employing Starlink, the remaining 40% of Japan can enjoy reliable communication services, enhancing both everyday connectivity and emergency communication capabilities during natural disasters.

The service is also accessible to customers with plans from other carriers. For more detailed information about au Starlink Direct, please visit au's official page or Starlink details.

Supported Devices for au Starlink Direct

Currently, there are a total of 22 compatible Samsung Galaxy products:

• - Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, Fold6, Fold5, Fold4
• - Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7, Flip6, Flip5, Flip4
• - Samsung Galaxy S25, S25 Ultra, S24, S24 Ultra, S24 FE, S23, S23 Ultra, S23 FE, S22, S22 Ultra
• - Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, A54 5G, A53 5G
• - Samsung Galaxy A25 5G

The coverage area spans all of Japan, including the 47 prefectures and territorial waters, allowing use in areas where cellular signals do not reach.

Services Available

• - Satellite Data Communication
• - Text Message Sending/Receiving (SMS/RCS)
• - Location Information Sharing
• - Lookups through Gemini on Android Smartphones
• - Earthquake Early Warnings, Tsunami Alerts, and National Protection Information (J-Alert)

The initial offerings will be available for free for the time being, with no application necessary to use the services.

Please note that satellite communication quality may result in delays or instability in sending and receiving messages, particularly during adverse conditions.

In conclusion, Samsung's collaboration with au through the introduction of the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, accompanied by the au Starlink Direct service, marks a significant leap forward in enhancing communication possibilities, especially in remote areas of Japan.