Ukraine has tested Starlink Direct to Cell technology for the first time, which allows a regular 4G smartphone to connect directly to Starlink satellites without additional equipment.
This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Digital Transformation.
“The technology was tested by Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation Mykhailo Fedorov and Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov. While in the Zhytomyr region, where the technology is being tested, they exchanged text messages and briefly communicated via video link,” the ministry said.
The satellite communication function via smartphone will be available gradually as the network is rolled out. The first stage of Starlink Direct to Cell implementation in Ukraine will be the ability to send text messages on the Kyivstar network, which is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2025.
The launch of the first stage of the technology in Ukraine is scheduled for fall 2025. Initially, users will be able to send text messages, and other features will be added over time.
According to Fedorov, Ukraine has become the first country in Europe to launch Direct to Cell. The technology will provide connectivity in all conditions — even in areas without mobile network coverage.
The service will be free during the testing phase.