Airtel Africa is partnering with SpaceX to bring Starlink's satellite phone service across its entire network. The deal will cover all fourteen of Airtel's markets, aiming to connect 174 million customers. This makes Airtel the first African mobile carrier to offer the Starlink Direct-to-Cell system, starting with text and limited data in 2026.
The service will use a constellation of satellites to reach phones directly in areas without ground-based towers. It is designed for remote locations where building regular cell infrastructure is difficult. Future upgrades promise much higher data speeds. Company leaders from both Airtel and Starlink stated that the goal is to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity. The rollout depends on getting regulatory approval in each country involved.
The service will use a constellation of satellites to reach phones directly in areas without ground-based towers. It is designed for remote locations where building regular cell infrastructure is difficult. Future upgrades promise much higher data speeds. Company leaders from both Airtel and Starlink stated that the goal is to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity. The rollout depends on getting regulatory approval in each country involved.
