The National Commission for the Regulation of Electronic Communications (NCR) has granted "Kyivstar" permission to experiment with a new satellite technology that allows direct communication with smartphones — Direct to Cell. This is the first such testing in Europe, and one of the first globally, alongside the USA, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.
During the tests, "Kyivstar" will evaluate the SpaceX Direct to Cell technology, particularly the capability to receive text messages on standard 4G smartphones without any additional equipment. The first successful connection has already taken place — the "Kyivstar" SIM card successfully registered in the Starlink satellite network in the USA.
This new communication format will ensure coverage in so-called "white spots" — remote or damaged regions lacking traditional mobile signal. This technology is particularly relevant in wartime, when infrastructure may be destroyed or without power. It will operate in open areas with a clear line of sight to the sky.
Testing in Ukraine will begin in the summer of 2025, with wider access expected in the fourth quarter.
"This step confirms our technological leadership. Direct to Cell will complement our network and allow us to remain connected even in critical conditions," said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of "Kyivstar".
It should be noted that "Kyivstar" has signed an agreement with Starlink, a division of SpaceX, to launch Direct to Cell technology in Ukraine by the end of 2024. This marks the first such agreement in Europe.
Additionally, the Ministry of Digital Transformation recently signed a memorandum with "Kyivstar" to develop a Ukrainian LLM, with the mobile operator acting as a strategic partner and investor in the project.
