Kyivstar Tests Starlink Direct to Cell in Ukraine for Messaging Trials

Elon Musk’s Starlink has demonstrated its direct-to-cell satellite technology in Ukraine, marking a major advancement in satellite communications. Conducted in the Zhytomyr region, the pilot test allowed Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, to exchange messages using standard 4G smartphones without additional hardware or terrestrial infrastructure. Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov and Ukraine’s Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov, participated in the demonstration, signaling the technology’s potential for practical use in real-world conditions [1].

The direct-to-cell system enables Starlink satellites to function as base stations, transmitting signals directly to LTE devices. Users can send text messages using a regular smartphone equipped with a SIM or eSIM card, provided the device has an unobstructed view of the sky [2]. This test is part of a global beta initiative, with Ukraine joining countries such as the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, and New Zealand in early deployment [3].

Ukraine’s adoption of the technology is particularly significant given the country’s need for resilient communication systems amid ongoing challenges to terrestrial infrastructure. Minister Fedorov highlighted the value of direct-to-cell connectivity in crisis scenarios, such as natural disasters or power outages, where traditional networks may be unavailable [4]. The successful test underscores Kyivstar’s role as a forward-thinking operator in telecommunications and reinforces Ukraine’s potential as a testing ground for satellite-based innovations.

Kyivstar and Starlink plan to commercialize the service in the fourth quarter of 2025, beginning with text messaging capabilities. Voice and broadband data services are expected to follow in the early part of 2026, according to Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov [5]. However, the satellite-based channels are expected to offer significantly lower bandwidth—10–100 times slower than terrestrial networks—limiting initial applications to low-data uses such as messaging in remote or emergency situations [6].

Kyivstar’s parent company, VEON, is also exploring partnerships with other satellite connectivity providers, including Amazon’s Project Kuiper, to expand mobile satellite services beyond Ukraine [5]. While pricing details have not yet been finalized, early estimates suggest costs may align with existing Starlink offerings, depending on operator agreements [7].

The test represents a key step toward the broader adoption of satellite-based communication, which could redefine mobile connectivity in underserved or disaster-prone areas. As the technology moves toward commercial rollout, it may offer an alternative to traditional terrestrial infrastructure, reshaping the global telecom landscape [8].

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[1] title: Kyivstar tests Starlink Direct to Cell in Ukraine, first in ...

url: https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/kyivstar-tests-starlink-direct-to-cell-in-ukraine-first-in-eastern-europe-93CH-4185193

[2] title: Ukraine Tests Starlink Direct to Cell Satellite ...

url: https://odessa-journal.com/ukraine-became-one-of-the-first-countries-in-the-world-where-starlink-direct-to-cell-technology-became-operational

[3] title: Ukraine tests Starlink Direct to Cell

url: https://universemagazine.com/en/ukraine-is-one-of-the-first-countries-to-test-starlink-direct-to-cell-what-is-it-and-why/?srsltid=AfmBOortFpb8t4rdcgSWBTuZIfkpgFDUSTXXi4VRhBow2PVtnXUO_IoV

[4] title: Ukraine tests Starlink Direct to Cell

[5] title: VEON's Kyivstar Delivers First Messages via Starlink in ...

url: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/veon-kyivstar-delivers-first-messages-130000830.html

[6] title: Ukraine tests Starlink Direct to Cell

[7] title: Ukraine tests Starlink Direct to Cell

[8] title: Ukraine's Kyivstar conducts first Starlink direct-to-cell test in ...

url: https://kyivindependent.com/ukraines-kyivstar-conducts-first-starlink-direct-to-cell-test-in-eastern-europe/