“707”: Kyivstar received a code to work in SpaceX satellite network
19 March 16:56
The National Commission for the State Regulation of Electronic Communications (NCCIR) has granted Kyivstar permission to use the 707 code to connect smartphones in Ukraine to the satellite network using Direct-to-Cell technology. This was reported by the regulator’s press service, according to
It is noted that the receipt of this code opens the way to the next stage of practical implementation of the joint project of the Ukrainian mobile operator with the American company SpaceX. It is about testing and further implementation of the new Direct-to-Cell technology in Ukraine.
As explained in the NCCC, in order for subscribers to be able to control and choose which Kyivstar radio network (terrestrial or satellite) to receive services, the satellite segment of the network must have a separate MNC code. The permission to use such a code – “707” – was granted.
What else is known about the deal between Kyivstar and Starlink
At the end of December, Kyivstar signed an agreement with Starlink, a division of SpaceX, to launch Direct to Cell satellite communications in Ukraine.
According to the company’s press release, the agreement will make Ukraine one of the first countries to have access to Starlink’s innovative Direct to Cell service, which will significantly increase the resilience of the national communications infrastructure.
Kyivstar is expected to launch Starlink Direct to Cell services with SMS and OTT messaging in the fourth quarter of 2025. The next stage will be voice and data services.
As a rule, Starlink and Direct to Cell work in conjunction with traditional cellular operators when developing new technology. In the United States, Musk’s company has reached an agreement with T-Mobile, and in Canada – with Rogers. There are partners in New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Switzerland, and other countries. Kyivstar has become a partner in Ukraine.
What are the advantages of Direct-to-Cell technology?
Starlink satellites with the Direct to Cell function have an advanced eNodeB modem on board, which works like a cell tower in space, providing network integration similar to a standard roaming partner. Thus, Direct to Cell provides connectivity even in the most remote regions.
Direct to Cell works with existing LTE phones wherever the sky is visible. No changes to the hardware, firmware or special applications are required to use the service and ensure unimpeded access to text, voice and data.
The new service should be available anywhere in the world. But, according to experts, we should not expect that this Starlink technology will displace traditional cellular communication. According to Elon Musk, the issue is limited bandwidth. At least in the near future. It is worth recalling that Direct to Cell does not work indoors, meaning that the user must be “where you can see the sky”.
As reported by
The day before, it became known that VEON, a global digital operator and parent company of Kyivstar, and Cohen Circle Acquisition Corp. I (“Cohen Circle”), a specialized asset acquisition company, announced the signing of a business combination agreement aimed at indirect listing of Kyivstar on the Nasdaq Stock Market in the United States.
The launch of the new technology should confirm the strong growth potential of Kyivstar and encourage potential investors to cooperate with the company.
