Nairobi: Airtel Africa and SpaceX have announced the successful testing of data and messaging services with Starlink Mobile in Kenya, marking a significant step towards bringing satellite-to-mobile connectivity to millions across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets. The testing was conducted in ‘no connectivity’ areas where terrestrial mobile networks lacked a signal.
According to Kenya News Agency, in these specific areas, Starlink Mobile was seamlessly activated, allowing 4G compatible smartphones to access Starlink’s constellation of 650 launched satellites, ensuring continuous connectivity. During this testing phase, the connectivity supported light-data applications such as WhatsApp calling and messaging, maps, Facebook Messenger, and facilitated successful financial transactions via the Airtel app.
Users remained connected to these apps and accessed key services even in the most remote locations. Commenting on the tests, Sunil Taldar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Airtel Africa, stated that the telecommunications company is thrilled to move from announcement to actionable steps with its partners at SpaceX. Taldar emphasized, ‘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.’
Following this testing in Kenya, Airtel Africa and Starlink Mobile plan to leverage the insights gained to expand the service across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets, in line with country-specific regulatory approvals. In addition, the partners plan to launch voice calling and expanded data capabilities using Starlink Mobile V2 technology that will enable broadband directly to mobile phones.
