Airtel Africa, SpaceX complete testing of Starlink Mobile’s satellite-to-mobile

NAIROBI: AIRTEL Africa and SpaceX have completed initial testing of Starlink Mobile’s satellite-to-mobile connectivity in Kenya, marking a significant step toward expanding coverage to remote areas across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets.

The trials targeted “no connectivity” zones—regions where traditional mobile networks lack signal. In these locations, 4G smartphones seamlessly accessed Starlink’s constellation of 650 satellites, enabling uninterrupted use of essential applications. During the testing phase, users could make WhatsApp calls, send messages, navigate with maps, interact on Facebook Messenger, and complete financial transactions via the Airtel app, demonstrating the system’s capacity to maintain light-data services even in the most isolated regions.

Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa, said the trials highlight the company’s commitment to expanding digital access: “This testing phase in Kenya is a testament to our commitment to ensuring our customers remain connected, even beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. Partnering with SpaceX allows us to translate ambition into actionable connectivity solutions.”

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Building on insights from Kenya, Airtel Africa and Starlink Mobile plan to roll out services across the operator’s 14-country footprint, subject to local regulatory approvals. The partnership will also introduce voice calling and enhanced data capabilities with Starlink Mobile V2 technology, which aims to deliver broadband directly to mobile devices, further bridging the digital divide in underserved regions.

This initiative positions Airtel Africa and SpaceX at the forefront of satellite-enabled mobile connectivity in Africa, aligning with broader industry trends where satellite infrastructure complements traditional networks to provide universal coverage.