Ukraine secures Starlink's direct-to-cellular service, making it one of the initial nations to do so
Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, is making waves with its new direct-to-cell (D2C) technology. This innovation promises to revolutionise mobile connectivity, particularly in remote and low-density areas with poor coverage.
In a significant move, Starlink has signed a deal with Kyivstar, Ukraine's leading mobile operator, to provide D2C service in Ukraine, making it one of the first countries to get this technology. However, for mobile operators in Zimbabwe, such as Telecel, the picture is less clear.
Starlink's D2C service is a significant improvement over the standard Starlink satellite service. Users do not need special equipment like the $170 mini kits; only an LTE (4G) capable phone will do. In some regions of Zimbabwe, users may need to upgrade their phones to support D2C Starlink service, as it does not support 3G.
The D2C Starlink technology is particularly effective in remote and low-density areas with poor coverage. In these areas, the collaboration between mobile operators and Starlink could lead to improved mobile coverage. For instance, Starlink satellites could help mobile operators achieve 100% coverage in Zimbabwe, eliminating the need for climbing trees to get service in rural areas.
The expansion of D2C Starlink service in Zimbabwe represents exciting times for improved mobile connectivity in rural areas. However, as of August 2025, no confirmed timeline or operational launch for Zimbabwe or Telecel has been announced. The current rollout and partnerships focus on major telecom operators in North America, Oceania, and Australia.
While Starlink D2C is operational and expanding in several key markets, the future of mobile operator coverage for Telecel Zimbabwe will likely depend on future commercial agreements and regulatory approvals that have not been publicly reported yet.
It's worth noting that the capacity for global coverage with D2C Starlink service is not yet available, but the company is progressing towards it. The implementation of D2C Starlink service does not require users to purchase special equipment, only an LTE (4G) capable phone.
In urban areas, the benefits of D2C Starlink service are not expected to be as significant, as these areas generally have better mobile coverage. However, in rural areas where connectivity is a challenge, this new technology could be a game-changer.
References:
[1] Starlink. (2025). Starlink's Global Direct-to-Cell (D2C) Coverage. Retrieved from https://www.starlink.com/d2c
[2] TechCrunch. (2025). Starlink's Direct-to-Cell Service Expands to Full Voice and Data Services. Retrieved from https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/01/starlinks-direct-to-cell-service-expands-to-full-voice-and-data-services/
[3] The Verge. (2025). T-Mobile Launches Commercial Direct-to-Cell Service with Starlink. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2025/07/01/23123664/t-mobile-launches-commercial-direct-to-cell-service-starlink
[4] Engadget. (2025). Starlink's Direct-to-Cell Service Is Now Available in the US. Retrieved from https://www.engadget.com/starlinks-direct-to-cell-service-is-now-available-in-the-us-082718496.html
This collaboration between Starlink and Kyivstar in Ukraine could significantly improve internet access in remote areas, leveraging the D2C technology for mobile connectivity. In contrast, the implementation of this technology in Zimbabwe, specifically for Telecel users, is yet to be confirmed, though Starlink's D2C service, which only requires an LTE capable phone, could revolutionize technology and science, particularly in the field of space-and-astronomy, given its potential for global coverage.
