June 24, 2026 Technical Requirements for 700 MHz Band Non-Geostationary Satellite Communications Systems for Mobile Phones Using a Satellite Constellation

- Partial Report from the Information and Communications Council -

　The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) today received a partial report from the Information and Communications Council, chaired by ENDO Nobuhiro, Special Advisor to NEC Corporation, on the "Technical Requirements for 700 MHz Band Non-Geostationary Satellite Communications Systems for Mobile Phones Using a Satellite Constellation." These requirements are part of the "Technical Requirements for Mobile Satellite Communications Systems Using Non-geostationary Satellites" (Consultation No. 82 of the Telecommunications Technology Council dated September 25, 1995).

Note: The published materials are in Japanese only.

1　 Background

　Satellite direct communication, which enables direct communication with satellites using existing mobile phone terminals such as smartphones, is expected to provide efficient coverage of areas lacking communications infrastructure, such as remote islands, maritime areas, and mountainous regions. It is also anticipated to provide a means of communication during natural disasters and other emergencies. To promptly address the demand for such satellite direct communication and ensure the smooth introduction of such services, the Information and Communications Council has been examining the "Technical Requirements for 700 MHz Band Non-Geostationary Satellite Communications Systems for Mobile Phones Using a Satellite Constellation" since September 2025. As a result of this study, the MIC has received a partial report from the Council today.

2　 Future plans

　Based on this partial report, the MIC plans to promptly develop relevant regulations etc.