NTT Docomo Targets 2028 Satellite Calls with Starlink Mobile V2

NTT Docomo has signed an agreement with Starlink Japan to use next-generation Starlink Mobile V2 satellites, paving the way for satellite-to-smartphone voice calls, high-speed browsing and direct IoT connectivity by fiscal 2028.

The agreement expands Docomo’s existing docomo Starlink Direct service, which launched in April 2026 and currently supports text messaging and selected app-based data services. The service is available to customers across all Docomo pricing plans, including ahamo, and reached 6.5 million cumulative users within its first three months.

Today, docomo Starlink Direct works on supported devices and apps in outdoor areas with a clear view of the sky, outside Docomo’s 4G and 5G coverage and away from Wi-Fi. Voice calling is not yet available, but the Starlink Mobile V2 upgrade is expected to broaden the service into more conventional mobile use cases.

The addition of direct IoT connectivity could also support remote monitoring and data collection in locations where terrestrial infrastructure is difficult to deploy, including mountainous regions, remote islands and maritime areas. Corporate services are expected to be handled by NTT Docomo Business.

The move reinforces Japan’s growing focus on satellite-to-phone connectivity as a resilience layer for mobile networks. With frequent earthquakes, typhoons and other natural disasters, operators are increasingly looking to D2D satellite services to maintain communications when terrestrial networks are unavailable or disrupted.