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Airtel Africa and SpaceX have successfully completed testing of Starlink Mobile’s data and messaging services in Kenya, marking a significant milestone in efforts to deliver satellite-to-mobile connectivity to areas beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
The testing was conducted in locations with no existing mobile signal. In these zones, Starlink Mobile activated seamlessly on 4G-compatible smartphones, connecting users to SpaceX’s constellation of 650 low-Earth orbit satellites. During the trials, the connection supported light-data applications including WhatsApp calling and messaging, maps, Facebook Messenger, and financial transactions through the Airtel app.
“We are thrilled to move from announcement to actionable steps with our partners at SpaceX,” said Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa.
“This testing phase in Kenya is a testament to our commitment to expanding global access. By integrating Starlink Mobile’s technology, we are ensuring that our customers remain connected even when they travel beyond our terrestrial network”.
The successful tests represent a concrete step toward bridging the connectivity gap in remote areas where building traditional cell towers remains economically unviable—a persistent challenge across sub-Saharan Africa.
Airtel Africa and SpaceX plan to use insights from the Kenya tests to expand the service across all 14 of Airtel Africa’s markets, pending regulatory approvals in each country. The partners also intend to introduce voice calling and expanded data capabilities through Starlink Mobile V2 technology, which will enable broadband speeds directly to mobile phones.
Starlink Mobile operates as the world’s largest direct-to-cell satellite constellation, partnering with mobile network operators globally to function as what SpaceX describes as “a cell phone tower in space.”
Airtel Africa serves 174 million customers across sub-Saharan Africa. The partnership with SpaceX addresses a critical infrastructure gap, offering a complementary solution that extends coverage to areas previously considered unreachable by conventional mobile networks.
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