Ukraine launches Starlink satellite communication technology in every smartphone
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine Mykhailo Fedorov reports this on Telegram.
"This technology will allow Ukrainians to stay connected without mobile network coverage via SMS," the head of the department clarified.
Fedorov pointed out that the technology assumes that users will only need a 4G smartphone with a SIM or eSIM card.
"Ukrainians can stay connected in hard-to-reach places: in the mountains, during bad weather, network disruptions, or power outages. The main condition for the technology is a direct line of sight to the sky," he explained.
It is noted that the official launch of Starlink Direct to Cell is planned for this fall.
According to Fedorov, he tested the Starlink Direct to Cell technology together with Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov. They exchanged the first text messages via satellite. Fedorov clarified that besides Ukraine, Starlink Direct to Cell is also being launched in Australia, Japan, Canada, and New Zealand.
"Despite the war, we continue to develop innovative solutions, as reliable communication for every Ukrainian is one of our key priorities," he added.
The Ministry of Digital Transformation emphasized that the satellite communication function through smartphones will become available gradually, as the network is deployed.
