Kazakhstan has launched Starlink Mobile satellite connectivity service based on Direct-to-Cell technology. The project was unveiled in Astana at the AI & Digital Bridge forum. Its implementation was the result of agreements reached during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to the U.S. in 2025. The new technology allows compatible smartphones to connect directly to satellite connectivity in remote areas without mobile network coverage. To use the service, users need to activate it through their mobile operator’s app.
«You can already go outside the city, try to find this network and connect to it. If everything is being tested and works well, you can then try making a call. I saw that some bloggers are already testing it. I can promise on behalf of Elon Musk that as more satellites are placed into orbit, the capacity and quality of the internet that you can use through Direct-to-Cell and Direct-to-Mobile technologies will increase,» noted Jabbor Kayumov, CEO of the telecommunications holding in Kazakhstan.
This year, AI & Digital Bridge brought together around 30,000 participants in the capital. More than 300 global leaders in the digital industry spoke at the forum. The large-scale platform is aimed at implementing joint projects and developing international cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital assets, research, venture financing, and startup support.
«The environment here in Kazakhstan is so electrifying, because there are so many people, especially young people, who are interested in building their startups and in leveraging the very strong digital and data infrastructure here, and the very strong support by the government and by non-profits. We cannot only enable our startups to do terrific work around clinical care, but also welcome biotech and pharmaceutical companies to bring their clinical trials here,» said Vivian Lee, senior lecturer at Harvard Medical School.
This year marks the seventh edition of the forum. Over the years, 127,000 people from more than 100 countries have taken part, while more than 600 new startups have been presented at the forum.
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