KDDI held a press conference on April 10, 2025, to announce the appointment of its new president, Hiroto Matsuo, and to unveil the launch of a groundbreaking service called 'au Starlink Direct'. This innovative service allows direct communication between smartphones and satellites, marking a significant advancement in mobile connectivity in Japan.
According to Matsuo, the 'population coverage rate' of KDDI's 4G/LTE service, utilizing the 800MHz band, stands at an impressive 99.9%. However, due to Japan's unique topography, characterized by high forest coverage, the 'area coverage rate' is considerably lower, at approximately 60%. "Mobile services have become a vital part of social infrastructure. I wanted to address the remaining 40% that lacks coverage," Matsuo explained during the press conference.
'au Starlink Direct' operates by connecting smartphones directly to Starlink satellites using existing au frequencies. The service is designed to work anywhere there is a view of the sky, ensuring connectivity even in remote areas. Initially, it will support SMS messaging, allowing users to send and receive texts in mountainous regions, islands, and at sea, where traditional mobile networks struggle to reach.
This service is especially crucial during large-scale disasters when conventional mobile services may become unavailable. Users will be able to maintain contact with family and friends, receive emergency alerts, and share their location information. Furthermore, Android users can access Google's AI assistant, 'Gemini', even in areas without service.
With support for 50 different smartphone models, including popular brands like Galaxy, Xperia, iPhone, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, and AQUOS, 'au Starlink Direct' aims to cater to a broad user base, covering approximately 6 million devices. Users do not need to apply for the service, which will initially be offered free of charge.
As Matsuo highlighted, "We want to ensure that communication can occur in areas where it has previously been difficult, such as mountainous regions and remote islands." The service is expected to be a game changer for those living or traveling in such areas.
In addition to basic messaging, 'au Starlink Direct' will allow users to receive emergency earthquake alerts and share their current location. The service is set to expand its capabilities, with data communication services anticipated to launch in the summer of 2025.
During the press conference, Matsuo also reflected on KDDI's long-standing relationship with SpaceX, the company behind Starlink. He noted that this partnership has been instrumental in developing the new service. "We have built a long-term relationship of trust with SpaceX. During the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, we collaborated with Starlink Japan to provide antennas to evacuation centers, helping restore communication in affected areas," Matsuo stated.
Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, expressed excitement about the launch, stating, "We are thrilled to realize the first satellite-to-smartphone direct communication service in Asia, and in the world, with KDDI in Japan. 'au Starlink Direct' will enable connection anywhere in Japan, creating new possibilities and value that could save lives in disasters and emergencies."
The service operates without the need for a dedicated antenna, as each Starlink satellite acts as a base station, allowing users to connect as long as the satellite is overhead. This feature sets 'au Starlink Direct' apart from traditional satellite communication, which often requires specialized equipment.
As the service rolls out, KDDI plans to expand its offerings beyond just au brand devices, with discussions underway to include UQ mobile and povo users as well. The company aims to enhance connectivity across Japan, particularly in regions where mobile infrastructure has been challenging to establish.
While the initial launch focuses on text messaging and emergency alerts, the upcoming data communication capabilities promise to further enhance the service's utility. Matsuo concluded, "We are committed to providing innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers, especially in times of crisis. Please look forward to what we have in store for the future!"
With 'au Starlink Direct', KDDI is not just enhancing its service offerings but also paving the way for a new era of mobile connectivity in Japan, ensuring that no one is left without communication, regardless of their location.
