Kyivstar announced that Starlink Direct to Cell satellite connectivity by SpaceX is now available for testing to all Kyivstar subscribers. Ukraine can now stay connected even in dead zones. Kyivstar is the first in Europe to provide access to satellite technology to enable sending and receiving SMS messages in areas where terrestrial connections are unavailable.
The next connectivity phase will enable light data with voice and video capabilities. The primary purpose of Starlink Direct to Cell technology, network "Kyivstar-SpaceX", is to provide basic connectivity in areas without mobile coverage. Due to the limited bandwidth of satellite channels, the company are starting with the basic but vital functionality: sending and receiving SMS messages.
But SMS is only the first level of this technology - voice calls and mobile data are planned to be added in the future. The technology covers the entire territory of Ukraine, except for occupied areas, border zones, and combat zones. "Direct to Cell is an important safety technology that ensures access to connectivity and emergency services even outside mobile network coverage.
NCEC has supported its testing in Ukraine because, in war conditions, this is critical for protecting citizens and demonstrates the country's ability to implement cutting-edge technologies. At the same time, the introduction of any new technology should be based on thorough testing and compliance with relevant technical requirements, and its further implementation should be harmonized with European standards," said Liliia Malon, Chairwoman of NCEC (National Commission for the state regulation of electronic communications, radio frequency spectrum and the provision of postal services. Starlink Direct to Cell is not a replacement for a terrestrial network but rather a complement to it.
The technology has already proven its effectiveness worldwide, operating in the most extreme conditions - including during hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. The technology has already proven it effectiveness worldwide, operating in the Most extreme conditions - including during hurricanes., floods, and wildfires.
