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Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to roll out Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite connectivity across all its 14 markets.
In a statement on Tuesday, Airtel Africa said the satellite-to-mobile service will begin in 2026 with data for select applications and text messaging.
According to the telecoms company, the partnership will enable Airtel Africa customers with compatible smartphones in regions without terrestrial coverage to have network connectivity through Starlink.
“This agreement also includes support for Starlink’s first broadband Direct to Cell system, with next-generation satellites that will be capable of providing high-speed connectivity to smartphones with 20x improved data speed,” the statement reads.
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“The rollout will proceed in line with country-specific regulatory approvals.
“Airtel Africa is the first mobile network operator in Africa to offer Starlink Direct to Cell service, powered by 650 satellites to provide seamless connectivity to its customers in remote areas.”
Sunil Taldar, managing director and chief executive officer of Airtel Africa, said the partnership aligns with the company’s goal of expanding reliable mobile connectivity.
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“Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions,” Taldar said.
“Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements the terrestrial infrastructure and even reaches areas where deploying terrestrial network solutions are challenging.
“We are very excited about the collaboration with Starlink, which will establish a new standard for service availability across all our 14 markets.”
Stephanie Bednarek, Starlink’s vice-president for sales, said the collaboration will enable connectivity in locations previously beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
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“We’re so thrilled that Starlink Direct to Cell can power this life-changing service,” Bednarek said.
“Through this agreement with Airtel Africa, we will also deliver our next-generation technology to offer high-speed broadband connectivity, which will offer faster access to many essential services.”
According to the statement, the partnership reinforces Airtel Africa’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and offering seamless connectivity to its customers.
Airtel Africa said it will continue to explore additional collaboration opportunities with Starlink to further advance digital inclusion across the continent.
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