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Ukraine Becomes One of the First Countries to Test Starlink Direct to Cell — Bringing Satellite Connectivity Straight to Smartphones
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Ukraine has taken a major leap into the future of communications by becoming one of the first countries in the world to test Starlink Direct to Cell — a groundbreaking technology that connects standard smartphones directly to satellites, with no extra equipment required.
First Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation, Education, Science, and Technology Mykhailo Fedorov and Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov successfully exchanged the first-ever text messages and even tested a video call via satellite, using nothing but their smartphones during a field test in the Zhytomyr region.
The official rollout for Kyivstar subscribers is planned for fall 2025, starting with the ability to send and receive text messages even without mobile network coverage. Data services will follow as the network expands.
Connectivity without limits
With Starlink Direct to Cell, any 4G-enabled smartphone with a Kyivstar SIM card can connect directly to Starlink satellites. No antennas. No routers. Just a clear view of the sky — and you can stay connected from anywhere: remote mountain trails, during extreme weather, power outages, or in emergency situations.
Why it matters — especially for Ukraine
Ukraine is the first country in the world to launch Direct to Cell technology in wartime. This milestone is not just about innovation — it’s about resilience. It means no more «dead zones» for communication, ensuring that people can stay connected even in the most remote or crisis-affected areas.
This is a crucial step in building infrastructure that guarantees access to communication under any circumstances. Despite the challenges of wartime, we continue to develop innovative solutions — because reliable communication for every Ukrainian is one of our top priorities
Currently, engineers are conducting beta tests across the country to measure performance, compatibility, and data transfer speeds. These trials will ensure the service is ready for nationwide deployment later this year.
