VEON’s Beeline Kazakhstan makes first Starlink direct-to-cell call in Central Asia
In a major digital milestone for Central Asia, VEON’s Beeline Kazakhstan has successfully completed the first-ever voice call and messaging test using Starlink’s Direct‑to‑Cell satellite technology. This breakthrough demonstrates how satellite connectivity is expanding beyond remote internet access, now directly to regular mobile phones. The achievement highlights both innovation in telecom and a vision for improved coverage across Kazakhstan’s vast terrain.
Who Are VEON and Beeline Kazakhstan?
- VEON: NASDAQ-listed operator serving 160M customers, including Kazakhstan.
- Beeline Kazakhstan: Major telecom with 11.7M users, part of VEON.
- Innovation: Offers AI tools, digital solutions, and is now adding satellite connectivity.
- Industry View: We see Beeline as a tech leader in Central Asia, not just a carrier.
What Is Starlink and Direct‑to‑Cell Technology?
Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite network, provides internet from low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to even remote areas. Its Direct‑to‑Cell technology allows regular mobile phones to connect straight to satellites using existing SIM cards from operators like Beeline. This means calls, SMS, and data can work without nearby cell towers, a game-changer for Kazakhstan’s vast and rugged terrain. The technology is expanding globally and is part of a Starlink‑VEON deal to serve over 150 million customers.
The First Call: What Happened?
- Date & Location: On December 15, 2025, Beeline Kazakhstan tested Starlink Direct-to-Cell in the Akmolinskaya region.
- Who Participated: CEO Evgeniy Nastradin and Deputy PM Zhaslan Madiyev made calls and sent SMS/WhatsApp messages.
- How It Worked: Used a regular 4G phone with a Beeline SIM, connected directly through Starlink satellites.
- Significance: First real-world test showing standard devices can use satellite links.
- Next Steps: Commercial rollout starts with SMS in 2026, pending regulatory approval.
Why This Matters for Kazakhstan’s Telecom Sector
- Expanded Coverage: Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country. Many areas lack cell towers. Direct-to-Cell satellites provide connectivity in remote regions.
- Safety & Inclusivity: Remote communities, travelers, and first responders can stay connected in emergencies.
- Business Innovation: Beeline and VEON are now leaders in hybrid satellite-mobile networks, showing a forward-thinking strategy.
What This Means for Central Asia
Kazakhstan’s success sends a broader message. Central Asia, with centralised cities and expansive rural lands, can benefit immensely from hybrid connectivity. Countries like Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan could look to similar satellite collaborations to improve digital access. For regional economies, better connectivity equals better access to online education, healthcare, banking, and markets. It can reduce the digital divide that many remote areas still face.
Challenges and Future Prospects
- Regulatory Approval: Commercial rollout depends on government licenses and telecom regulations in 2026.
- Infrastructure Integration: Satellite links must work smoothly with existing networks for reliable service.
- Cost & Accessibility: Pricing must be affordable so remote users can benefit.
- Future Outlook: SMS rollout will come first, followed by voice and data services. Tests in other VEON markets, like Ukraine, show this is not a one-time experiment.
Looking Ahead
What comes next for Beeline and VEON? We expect several key developments:
- 2026 SMS Launch: The first commercial satellite‑enabled SMS service from Beeline Kazakhstan.
- Broader Services: Once approved, voice and data over satellite links may be introduced.
- Regional Expansion: Similar satellite partnerships across other VEON operating markets.
As satellite technology evolves, hybrid networks could become standard in countries with demanding geographic conditions.
Conclusion
VEON’s Beeline Kazakhstan has set a new standard for digital connectivity in Central Asia with the first Starlink Direct‑to‑Cell call. This isn’t just a test; it’s a sign that the future of mobile connectivity includes satellites as trusted partners to terrestrial networks. By connecting regular phones directly to space, Beeline and Starlink are helping Kazakhstan leap into a new era of inclusion, safety, and innovation.
FAQS
Beeline Kazakhstan completed the first Starlink Direct-to-Cell call in Central Asia on December 15, 2025, using a regular 4G smartphone.
It allows standard mobile phones to connect directly to satellites using existing SIM cards, without relying on nearby cell towers.
Kazakhstan has vast, remote areas where traditional cell towers cannot reach. This technology provides connectivity in rural regions and improves safety, inclusivity, and emergency communication.
Beeline plans to roll out SMS services in 2026, with voice and data services expected to follow, pending regulatory approval.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
