#Japan #Tokyo #Samsung Galaxy #au #Starlink Direct

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7: A Quantum Leap in Communication

On August 28, 2025, Samsung Electronics Japan will release its groundbreaking smartphone models, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, both of which will integrate with au Starlink Direct, a direct satellite communication service. This innovative technology allows users to maintain connectivity even in areas where traditional cellular service is unavailable, as long as they have a clear view of the sky.

What is au Starlink Direct?

au Starlink Direct delivers satellite data communication, enhancing messaging and location sharing among its many features. This service is especially beneficial for users in areas prone to communication blackouts, ensuring they can send messages and receive real-time updates. The service supports a range of applications, including Google Maps for navigation, weather alerts from Weather News, disaster response information from NERV, mountain climbing updates through YAMAP, and real-time posts from X. Initially, 19 applications are compatible, with more to follow.

This collaboration underscores Samsung's commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies in partnership with au, enriching user experience while increasing safety during emergencies or in remote areas. By April 2025, 20 models of Samsung Galaxy smartphones will have been updated to support au Starlink Direct, ensuring comprehensive coverage for users who may reside in difficult-to-connect regions such as mountainous terrains or islands.

How to Access Satellite Communication

To utilize au Starlink Direct, users of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 need to perform software updates:
1. Update the device to the latest software version via Settings > Software Update.
2. Ensure the Google Play system is also updated through Settings > Device Info > Software Info > Google Play System Update.
3. Check device information for the updated versions under Settings > Device Info > Software Info.

Users will also gain access to emergency earthquake alerts and tsunami warnings, alongside AI consultation services, making this system a comprehensive tool for both everyday communication and critical situations. Furthermore, au boasts a coverage rate exceeding 99.9% in terms of population, but because of Japan’s unique geography, approximately 40% of its land area remains underserved by traditional services. au Starlink Direct fills this gap, ensuring usability of smartphones in all regions of Japan.

Expanding the Range of Compatible Devices

In addition to the Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, many existing Samsung Galaxy models already support the au Starlink Direct service, including the Galaxy S series and A series devices, with compatibility expected to grow. As of now, these are the Samsung devices that have avant-garde functionality:

• - Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
• - Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7
• - Samsung Galaxy S25, S24 series
• - Samsung Galaxy A55, A54, A53
• - Samsung Galaxy A25

The service is available across Japan, in every prefecture and territorial waters, as long as there is ground visibility towards the sky. Importantly, the service will be free for the time being, with no registration necessary for users, making it both accessible and practical.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 symbolize a significant leap in mobile technology, paving the way for reliable satellite communication. Through au Starlink Direct, Samsung and au are not only enhancing connectivity but also ensuring peace of mind for users in areas historically bereft of reliable communication networks. This initiative promises to redefine mobile communication in Japan, especially during emergencies, disaster situations, or when users find themselves beyond the reach of conventional signals.

For more details, visit the official au Starlink Direct page here.