These Galaxy Phones Support SoftBank Starlink Direct

Samsung continues to expand support for satellite connectivity through regional partnerships. The company has announced that its eight Galaxy phones support SoftBank Starlink Direct in Japan. This will let devices connect directly to satellites when traditional network coverage remains out of reach.

SoftBank brings satellite messaging support in Japan

SoftBank has recently announced its satellite-to-smartphone connectivity service, SoftBank Starlink Direct. The service supports several Galaxy phones, letting users enjoy direct-to-phone satellite communication. This means they can send and receive text messages, get emergency alerts such as earthquake warnings, and use limited data services on supported apps.

The service is useful in outdoor areas where conventional mobile networks are unavailable, such as mountains, remote islands, and at sea. Furthermore, it offers support during disasters when ground networks are down.

If you subscribe to SoftBank smartphone plans and own an eligible Galaxy device, you will get access to SoftBank Starlink Direct. The service is also included in Y!mobile’s Simple, Simple 2, and Simple 3 plans. The best thing is that you do not need to install any application or pay any extra charges to access. You can see the list of supported smartphones below:

• Galaxy S26
• Galaxy S26+
• Galaxy S26 Ultra
• Galaxy S25
• Galaxy S25 Ultra
• Galaxy Z Fold 7
• Galaxy Z Flip 7
• Galaxy A25 5G

Note that this service works only outside SoftBank’s coverage area with no obstructions between the device and the satellite. It does not support voice calls and emergency calls. The company gradually plans to make more products compatible with satellite communication. This will help more users stay connected in areas where mobile signals do not reach.

In the US, Samsung partnered with T-Mobile to bring satellite communication through T-Satellite. The service supports T911, text, and data features on select Galaxy flagship and Galaxy A series models. In Europe, Samsung teamed up with Virgin Media O2 to offer space-based mobile data service to select Galaxy smartphone owners.