MANILA, Philippines — Globe Telecom Inc. announced on Thursday, October 1, that its subscribers traveling in Japan can now access satellite-to-mobile connectivity powered by Starlink Mobile.
The new feature allows users to access navigation, messaging, and basic communication applications in remote or underserved areas where terrestrial cellular coverage is unavailable.
Operated through low-Earth orbit satellites built by Elon Musk’s Starlink, the technology links straight to standard LTE smartphones to provide data, text, and voice capabilities outdoors under an open sky.
Globe integrated the satellite connection into its existing GoRoam Japan packages to allow seamless switching between traditional cellular networks and satellite-enabled areas.
Subscription rates for GoRoam Japan start at ₱400 for a seven-day period, alongside multiple tier options.
“Globe has always been at the forefront of connectivity innovation, and extending our Starlink journey into international access is the next step in that evolution,” said Eric Tanbauco, head of Globe’s consumer mobile business.
The service expansion was facilitated through a cross-border partnership with Japanese telecommunications carrier KDDI Corp., which previously announced that its Japanese users can similarly access Globe’s Starlink network when visiting the Philippines.
“Our goal is to eliminate global cellular dead zones and deliver reliable connectivity, aiming for a world where if you can see the sky, you can connect anywhere,” said KDDI executive officer Makoto Kadowaki.
Tanbauco noted that the collaboration with KDDI serves as an opportunity to test how satellite technology can eliminate connectivity borders and streamline international travel experiences.
Globe expects the reciprocal service to deliver steady roaming coverage across both countries.