Canadian mobile carrier Rogers Communications has expanded its direct-to-device (D2D) satellite service to Rogers customers in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

The company launched its D2D service, Rogers Satellite, in December of last year, as part of plans to cover hard-to-reach parts of the country.

That service has since been extended internationally for Rogers customers. In April, the company expanded its D2D service to neighboring US, before adding Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, taking its international roaming footprint to four countries.

Rogers uses SpaceX's Starlink to provide its D2D coverage. The service aims to provide connectivity where cell towers can't.

“Canadians want to stay connected wherever their travels take them,” said Mark Kennedy, chief technology officer, Rogers. “With satellite-to-mobile roaming in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, we’re extending coverage to more destinations around the world so customers can stay connected when traveling abroad.”

Rogers' satellite service supports text messaging and access to satellite-ready apps, including WhatsApp, Messenger, and X; navigation with Google Maps and AllTrails; and real-time weather updates via AccuWeather.

The international satellite-to-mobile roaming is included in Rogers' Ultimate plans plus eligible Roam Like Home options and select Travel Passes.

D2D has been heating up for mobile carriers, in particular in the US, where the country's three major carriers formed a D2D satellite-focused spectrum-pooling joint venture (JV) last month.