Kazakhstan tests Direct-to-Cell technology for direct satellite communication with smartphonesKazakhstan is conducting tests of Direct-to-Cell technology, which enables direct communication between smartphones and satellites without the use of ground-based base stations, Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan Zhaslan Madiyev said."Certain tests are currently underway, and this solution is being coordinated with the relevant government agencies," Madiyev said at the Freedom Inside 2026 forum in Astana on Thursday.He recalled that Starlink is legally available throughout the entire territory of Kazakhstan."Solutions with mobile operators are being worked out for technologies such as Direct-to-Cell. This involves receiving a signal directly from satellites to a phone," Madiyev explained.Earlier it was reported that Beeline Kazakhstan (Kar-Tel LLP, part of VEON) has entered into a partnership with Starlink to provide satellite communications across the entire territory of Kazakhstan, including remote regions not covered by ground networks.It was noted that testing and commercial launch of Starlink Direct-to-Cell services in Kazakhstan will be carried out in compliance with standard regulatory procedures.VEON has also signed a global framework agreement with Starlink. The document defines the terms of future cooperation for the implementation of Direct-to-Cell satellite communications in all VEON countries of operation. VEON became the first global telecom operator to conclude such a multilateral agreement with Starlink.VEON provides communication services and digital services to nearly 160 million customers. The company operates in five countries.Beeline Kazakhstan serves 11.8 million mobile communication customers and 2 million fixed internet customers. Since 2018, the company has been implementing a digital operator strategy. Beeline Kazakhstan has created an ecosystem of 60 internal and external products.Starlink Direct-to-Cell is the world's largest satellite constellation, with more than 650 satellites in low Earth orbit, providing data transmission, voice calls, video, and messaging in areas without mobile coverage. More than 7 million users across five continents are already connected to this technology. Direct-to-Cell satellites work with standard LTE smartphones.Starlink satellite internet became available in Kazakhstan in August 2025. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX