Japanese telecommunications company KDDI has launched a pioneering satellite-based service in collaboration with SpaceX's Starlink Direct, enabling direct data communication between satellites and smartphones. This service, branded as "au Starlink Direct," allows users to access 19 applications, including Twitter's X and Google Maps, even in areas without cellular coverage. The service targets mobile dead zones, providing connectivity for disaster information and other critical apps. Available in Japan for approximately $10 per month, this offering represents the first instance of a social networking app being accessible via direct satellite communication. The partnership leverages Starlink Direct to Cell satellite technology, enhancing connectivity options for users, particularly those in remote or outdoor environments.