Russia Develops Direct Smartphone-to-Satellite Connectivity
Work is underway in Russia to build an orbital constellation that will enable smartphones to connect directly to satellites with no additional hardware required.
Satellite connectivity is critical for Russia because of its vast territory and remote regions where terrestrial infrastructure is not feasible. Several projects are already in progress. The successful deployment of one of them could bring significant benefits to users.
No Additional Equipment Required
On April 23, reports said that Russian private space company Sputnix is developing an ambitious project to deploy a dedicated orbital constellation supporting Direct-to-Cell (D2C) technology. In practice, this allows smartphone users to connect directly to satellites and access network connectivity without additional terminals or external devices.
“We are planning further development of our satellite constellations. This includes work on new spacecraft, such as ultra-high-resolution and radar satellites. We are also developing D2C communication satellites,” the company said in a statement cited by TASS.
The company has not disclosed project details. However, it aims to provide Russian users with a Starlink-like service.
Strategic Importance
The project is strategically important. In addition to connecting remote regions, deploying a dedicated orbital constellation would strengthen Russia’s technological sovereignty and strengthen its global telecoms position.
The project has full government backing. In late March, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media said it had allocated the required spectrum to private satellite companies Sputnix and Byuro 1440. The decision is meant to support development of domestic “smartphone – satellite” communication systems designed to connect not only phones and tablets but also Internet of Things sensors. The allocated spectrum will support the satellite segment of a hybrid communications system.
Parallel Development Tracks
In parallel with D2C development, Sputnix is also advancing Internet of Things connectivity in cooperation with VISAT-TEL. The companies plan to combine resources to develop the low Earth orbit satellite system Avrora.
“The Internet of Things market is growing rapidly. Russia’s scale requires the use of satellite technologies in this area. Building the space segment of a domestic M2M/IoT infrastructure requires diverse expertise, which is why our companies have decided to combine their knowledge, experience, technologies, and resources,” said Valentin Anpilogov, Deputy CEO of VISAT-TEL and Chief Designer of the Avrora satellite system.
The Satellite Internet Era Approaches
Byuro 1440 is developing another low Earth orbit constellation. Its satellites are designed to provide internet access to remote regions and mobile transport. In spring 2026, the company launched its first batch of 16 satellites. The system will require around 900 spacecraft for full deployment, with commercial operations scheduled to begin in 2027. Work is also ongoing to develop ground receiving terminals.
Together, these projects show that Russia is set to significantly expand its presence in space-based communications. The new constellations will deliver resilient connectivity not only domestically but also potentially to international markets. If specialists build scalable platforms, the technology could be exported to countries that need reliable connectivity for sparsely populated regions.
