Telecommunications giant SoftBank has revealed a major update to its online mobile services brand, LINEMO. From September 1, 2026, customers will have access to the SoftBank Starlink Direct satellite communication service and unlimited data abroad, without any additional charges. The announcement, made on August 7, 2026, covers both users who already have plans and new contractors.
The initiative promises to transform the connectivity experience for those looking for flexibility and savings, especially in remote areas or during international travel. The benefits will be applied to the “LINEMO best plan” and “LINEMO best plan V” plans, with usage details varying depending on the period.
Direct access to Starlink at no extra cost
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The SoftBank Starlink Direct service, which uses satellite technology, will be available free of charge from September 1, 2026. Initially, and until next winter, an option contract will be required. However, the monthly fee of 1650 yen for this option will be fully subsidized, ensuring that access remains at no cost to the consumer.
This new feature represents a significant advance, enabling LINEMO users to connect to the internet in places with little or no coverage from traditional terrestrial networks. The integration of Starlink technology offers a robust solution for rural areas, adventure travel or even as a backup in situations of main grid failure.
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Savings on international travel with unlimited data
For those traveling, LINEMO also introduces unlimited data usage abroad at no additional cost. This benefit will be provided through a seven-day discount on the “Teigaku Kuni L” plan of the “Overseas Anshin Teigaku” service, which traditionally charges for travel use.
Until winter, the discount of up to seven days per month (equivalent to 6860 yen) will only apply to plans of one to seven days duration within the “Teigaku Kuni L” category. After winter, all plans from one to 31 days in the same category will be eligible for the benefit, further expanding savings for travelers. The exact dates for the complete transition will be announced later by the company.
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LINEMO plans covered by the new benefits
The new features will be available to subscribers of two main LINEMO plans, offering diverse options to meet different data consumption needs:
- LINEMO best plan:A plan with flexible monthly fees, adapted to data usage. It will cost 990 yen for consumption of up to 3GB and 2090 yen for use between 3GB and 10GB.
- LINEMO best plan V:With a fixed monthly fee of 2970 yen, this plan includes 30GB of data and offers free domestic calls for up to five minutes.
Impact and competitiveness in the telecommunications market
The introduction of SoftBank Starlink Direct and unlimited international roaming at no additional cost strategically positions LINEMO in the competitive telecommunications market. These additions not only increase the perceived value of the brand’s plans, but also respond to a growing demand for global connectivity and access in remote locations.
For consumers, the changes represent considerable savings and greater freedom of use. The possibility of traveling without worrying about high roaming costs or having internet access in previously inaccessible areas redefines the usefulness of a cell phone plan. This move by SoftBank through LINEMO demonstrates an effort to integrate emerging technologies to offer a more complete service aligned with the modern needs of an increasingly connected world.