docomo Starlink Direct Now Supports 30 Samsung Galaxy Models, Most in Japan

docomo Starlink Direct Now Supports 30 Samsung Galaxy Models, Most in Japan

docomo Starlink Direct Now Supports 30 Samsung Galaxy Models, Most in Japan

Samsung Electronics Japan Co., Ltd. has announced that 30 Samsung Galaxy smartphone models are now compatible with NTT DOCOMO’s “docomo Starlink Direct” satellite communication service. This service, which leverages Starlink Mobile provided by Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX), commenced on April 27, 2026. With 30 compatible devices, Samsung Galaxy offers the largest number of supported terminals for “docomo Starlink Direct” from any manufacturer in Japan.

The “docomo Starlink Direct” service, provided by DOCOMO, will be available to customers with any DOCOMO rate plan and a compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphone. For the time being, the service will be free of charge and will not require a separate application. To utilize the service, users need a compatible device, the latest software update, and a DOCOMO UIM card or eSIM that supports the service.

This new capability allows for communication in environments where it was previously unavailable, such as mountainous regions, remote islands, and at sea. Users can check weather, maps, and their location. In the event of a disaster, the service provides a crucial means of communication with family members.

The collaboration with DOCOMO has enabled the integration of “docomo Starlink Direct” across 30 Samsung Galaxy smartphones, ensuring a wider customer base can use the service with peace of mind. Efforts will continue to expand the range of satellite communication-compatible products, aiming to provide reliable communication not only for residents in areas with poor radio wave reception but also during emergencies.

Compatible Devices

As of April 27, 2026, the following 30 Samsung Galaxy models handled by DOCOMO are compatible:

Samsung Galaxy S26, S26+, S26 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S25, S25 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S24, S24 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S23, S23 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S22, S22 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, S21 5G Olympic Games Edition, S21 Ultra 5G

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, Fold6, Z Fold5, Z Fold4, Z Fold3
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7, Flip6, Z Flip5, Z Flip4, Z Flip3

Samsung Galaxy A57 5G, A55 5G, A54 5G, A53 5G, A36 5G, A25 5G

Please note: For Galaxy S21 5G, S21 5G Olympic Games Edition, S21 Ultra 5G, Z Fold3, and Z Flip3, file sending/receiving and data communication are not supported.
Devices sold by other carriers or directly by Samsung are not eligible.

Eligible Users and Service Area

Eligible Users: Customers with any DOCOMO rate plan using the compatible devices listed above.
Communication Area: Nationwide and territorial waters (within 12 nautical miles from the coastline).
- The service is available outdoors without obstructions, except when within DOCOMO’s 4G/5G areas or connected to Wi-Fi.

Available Functions

The following functions are available with “docomo Starlink Direct”:

Text message sending/receiving (SMS/RCS)
Current location sharing
File sending/receiving (RCS)

Inquiries via Gemini
Data communication via compatible applications
Emergency alerts “Area Mail” (Emergency Earthquake Warnings, Tsunami Warnings, Disaster/Evacuation Information including National Protection Information)

*Text message sending/receiving (RCS), current location sharing, file sending/receiving (RCS), Gemini inquiries, and data communication via compatible applications require the use of DOCOMO-specified ISP. Location sharing and file sending/receiving are available within the text message app.