Kyivstar has announced that since the launch in November 2025, more than 3 million subscribers have used Starlink Direct to Cell services, with over 1.2 million SMS messages sent. To further expand this vital service, Kyivstar has now made access available to iPhone users: iPhone devices running iOS 26.2 or later automatically detect and connect to the Kyivstar | SpaceX network when terrestrial signal is lost.
“The widespread adoption of Starlink Direct to Cell confirms the correctness of our strategic investments in Starlink technology, providing direct connectivity for the people of Ukraine,” said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar. “This technology complements the capabilities of our terrestrial network and provides the necessary communication when other means are unavailable.”
Kyivstar subscribers can test satellite communication technology on their SIM cards for free under their existing plans. Currently, only SMS sending is available when connecting to the Kyivstar | SpaceX network, with plans to expand to data transfer services. The technology works in open spaces with a direct view of the sky.
Expanding Satellite Connectivity
The introduction of satellite services by Kyivstar marks a significant move in the telecom sector, especially in areas with limited terrestrial connectivity. As SpaceX continues to expand its Starlink satellite constellation, other players like OneWeb and Amazon’s Kuiper are also accelerating their satellite internet services, indicating a robust future for global satellite connectivity.
Future Developments
Future developments include extending services beyond SMS to encompass full data connectivity, promising seamless communication even in the remotest regions of Ukraine. As the technology matures, experts predict further integration of satellite communication into everyday mobile services, enriching user experiences and ensuring that connectivity is never out of reach.
