Starlink and Beeline to Launch Direct-to-Cell Service in Kazakhstan in 2026
In 2026, SpaceX’s Starlink will officially launch its satellite mobile communication service, Direct to Cell, in partnership with Beeline Kazakhstan — marking a new milestone in global connectivity.
Connecting every corner of Kazakhstan
The collaboration aims to provide reliable mobile coverage across Kazakhstan’s vast territory, including remote and rural regions where traditional infrastructure remains limited. Using Starlink’s satellite network, the service will allow users to make video calls, send SMS messages, and access mobile internet directly from standard smartphones without any special hardware.
“This partnership is an important step toward achieving full coverage across Kazakhstan,” said the CEO of Beeline Kazakhstan. “It’s an effective solution to bridge the connectivity gap in the country’s most distant areas.”
How Direct to Cell works
The Direct to Cell technology relies on Starlink’s second-generation satellites equipped with powerful LTE payloads that communicate directly with existing mobile devices. During previous trials, the system achieved download speeds of up to 17 Mbps on an unmodified Android phone — an impressive result for a satellite-based connection.
Unlike conventional satellite phones, users won’t need special devices or antennas. Connectivity is handled automatically by standard LTE modems, enabling seamless roaming between ground networks and satellite coverage when no cell towers are available.
Impact on digital infrastructure
Kazakhstan’s partnership with Starlink aligns with the government’s national program to expand broadband and digital inclusion. The Direct to Cell rollout will also support local industries, from agriculture and logistics to emergency services, by ensuring communication access even in isolated regions.
Experts suggest that the collaboration could make Kazakhstan one of the first countries in Central Asia to integrate full-scale satellite-to-phone technology, placing it at the forefront of global telecom innovation.
Editorial Team — CoinBotLab