Milestone note Jun 25, 2026
Rakuten and AST SpaceMobile to form a Japan satellite-to-phone JV
Rakuten and AST SpaceMobile said they will form a 50/50 joint venture in Japan to operate direct-to-smartphone satellites, launching in phases from late 2026 — a challenge to Starlink's Japanese carriers.
Rakuten and AST SpaceMobile said they will form a 50/50 joint venture in Japan to operate direct-to-smartphone satellites, launching in phases from late 2026 — a challenge to Starlink's Japanese carriers.
Who's involved
Satellite firm connecting directly to ordinary phones; flies large BlueBird satellites, partnered with AT&T and Verizon.
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