Ukraine becomes one of first countries to get Starlink direct-to-cell service

So, it’s already happening – Starlink is signing deals with international mobile network operators to provide direct-to-cell satellite service.

Kyivstar, Ukraine’s leading mobile operator, has signed a deal with Starlink for direct-to-cell service in the country. Ukraines becomes one of the first countries to get the technology.

Capacity is not quite there yet for global coverage like with Starlink proper but with the progress the company makes, it won’t be long till they have global direct-to-cell coverage. It was only in early 2024 that they started launching satellites capable of direct-to-cell tech and yet we’re already here.

It won’t be instant service for Kyivstar after the signing of the agreement. They expect direct-to-cell services with messaging functionality to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Reminder: direct-to-cell satellite service is an even bigger deal than standard Starlink satellite service. That’s because with direct-to-cell, users don’t need special equipment like the $170 mini kits that are popular in Zimbabwe.

A user only needs an LTE (4G) capable phone and they can get internet access via satellites. Yes, unfortunately, it doesn’t do 3G, so in these parts of the world many will need to upgrade their phones.

I know that many traveled to the rural areas this festive season and can attest to connectivity challenges. Starlink satellites would help mobile operators get 100% coverage in Zimbabwe, meaning no climbing trees to get service.

After the lessons of Starlink proper, we can assume direct-to-cell will work best in remote and/or low density areas and would be best used in areas with terrible coverage. It won’t be useful in the urban areas.

Mobile operators will have to work with Starlink on this one. If it’s Telecel that signs such a deal, the customers will remain Telecel’s but just that Telecel will be using Starlink infrastructure in the background. Soemthing users won’t even have to know, just that Telecel now has 100% coverage.

So, on direct-to-cell, I think mobile operators won’t be defensive, they will scramble to sign a deal and improve service.

Exciting times await.