Docomo smartphones gain access to Starlink satellites from this Monday
The docomo Starlink Direct service starts operating this Monday, April 27th. The NTT Docomo allows LTE-compatible smartphones to connect directly to SpaceX’s Starlink satellites. Communication takes place without terrestrial towers. Usuários can send and receive text messages and access compatible applications. The operator offers the feature at no additional cost for now. Não requires registration or installing an extra app.
Cerca of 22 million customers, including those of the ahamo brand, can use the service immediately. The technology fills gaps in mountainous regions, remote islands and at sea. Ela also serves as an alternative in disaster situations, when the conventional network goes down.
Serviço allows contact in places without terrestrial signal
Connection depends on clear visibility of the sky. The smartphone exchanges signals directly with satellites in low orbit. Isso works in areas where Docomo does not have 4G or 5G coverage. Previous Testes already showed the viability of the partnership with SpaceX.
The initiative is part of a larger movement by Japanese operators. KDDI and SoftBank have been offering similar services for some time. Docomo now focuses on text and limited data via apps. The company highlights the potential for contacting family members in emergencies.
- Clientes from Docomo and ahamo access with no initial cost
- Compatível with operator’s LTE smartphones
- Envio and receiving text messages
- Uso of applications selected for data
- Funciona in mountains, islands and high seas
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— NTTドコモ (@docomo) April 27, 2026
本日から提供開始✨#docomoStarlinkDirect 🛰️
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本日から「docomo Starlink Direct」の提供を開始します！
スマホと衛星 @Starlink がつながれば、アプリやテキストメッセージによるデータ通信を、いつでも！どこでも！… pic.twitter.com/R6wpJY6VsV
Lançamento reinforces national coverage
Docomo had been planning the rollout since the beginning of fiscal year 2026. Previous Anúncios indicated the start for the first half of the year. The service goes live exactly on this date. The operator serves more than 90 million lines on Japão.
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Especialistas see the step as progress to reduce signal-free zones. The country has mountainous terrain and suffers from frequent earthquakes. Satellite connection can keep lines open when cables and towers fail.
Concorrência accelerates industry innovation
KDDI has already expanded its Starlink service and added emergency messaging for police and firefighters. SoftBank also activated its own offering. Docomo arrives with a temporary free proposal to attract and retain users.
The model does not require special hardware. Basta is an open-air, LTE compatible device. The speed and volume of data are still limited compared to the terrestrial network. The operator must detail future developments in updates.
Impacto expected in risky scenarios
Japão reinforces security measures with the use of cell phones. The holidays and the season of natural disasters encourage preventive actions. Docomo’s new feature adds to initiatives from other companies.
Usuários reports in tests that they can check maps and weather in isolated locations. The functionality helps with trails or marine navigation. In an emergency, the ability to text can make a difference.
The Docomo monitors initial performance for adjustments. The service marks another chapter in the integration of low-orbit satellites with conventional mobile telephony.
