Starlink and Airtel Africa collaborate to introduce direct-to-cell service in 14 markets

All 14 of Airtel Africa’s markets will now have access to Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology thanks to a partnership announced Tuesday by the company and SpaceX.

According to a statement from Airtel Africa, the satellite-to-mobile service will launch throughout Africa in 2026 with data for certain apps and text messaging.

Starlink will provide network connectivity for Airtel Africa subscribers with compatible handsets in areas without terrestrial service.

The agreement additionally involves “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,” claimed Airtel Africa.

Kyivstar, the biggest mobile operator in Ukraine, launched Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology last month, making it the first in Europe to do so. The goal is to keep millions of people connected during wartime blackouts and infrastructure disruptions.