Image: Starlink
KDDI and Okinawa Cellular have officially launched international roaming for au Starlink Direct in the United States. This marks the first time in the world that direct satellite-to-smartphone communication has functioned across international borders.
Au is the second-largest wireless carrier in Japan, operated by KDDI.
The service allows travellers from Japan to maintain a connection in the U.S. even when they are far outside the reach of traditional cell towers. By linking directly with Starlink satellites, users can access data through supported apps in remote areas such as Yellowstone National Park or the Grand Canyon.
Voice Calls and Messaging via Satellite
A major highlight of this rollout is support for popular communication apps. Users can now use WhatsApp and Messenger for both text messaging and voice calls over the satellite network. This ensures that even in the most isolated regions of the U.S. mainland, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, staying in touch with family or emergency services remains possible.
When a device leaves a terrestrial coverage zone, it automatically switches to the T-Mobile-SpaceX-au network via Starlink satellites. This seamless transition is currently available for the Google Pixel 9 and Google Pixel 10 series, with the Motorola razr 60 ultra expected to gain support later this month.
A Growing Global Partnership
The launch is the result of a deep technical partnership between KDDI and T-Mobile. By utilizing T-Mobile’s “T-Satellite with Starlink” infrastructure, KDDI is able to provide its customers with a dead zone free experience while abroad.
“The partnership with KDDI is based on a shared commitment to move beyond the limits of traditional networks,” said Stefan Bewley, T-Mobile Chief Operating Officer, in a statement.
For the time being, au Starlink Direct subscribers can use this roaming feature in the U.S. at no extra cost, provided their device software is up to date and roaming settings are enabled. This move signals a significant shift in global connectivity, where the physical location of cell towers no longer dictates whether or not a smartphone can stay online.
