Airtel runs pilot connectivity tests with Starlink satellites

The testing, done ahead of a rollout to Airtel's 14 markets in Africa, was done in “no connectivity” areas where terrestrial mobile networks lack a signal.

Connectivity supported light-data applications such as WhatsApp calling and messaging, maps, Facebook Messenger, and successful financial transactions via the Airtel app. 

"In these areas, Starlink Mobile was seamlessly activated, allowing 4G compatible smartphones access to Starlink’s constellation of 650 launched satellites to keep them connected," read a statement in part.

The technology will see Airtel utilising satellite-to-cell technology, allowing standard mobile devices to connect to Starlink satellites acting as cellular towers in space.

Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sunil Taldar said that the move will upscale connectivity for its customers even when they travel beyond areas with terrestrial networks.

Additionally, the partnership plans to launch voice calling and expand data capabilities using Starlink Mobile V2 technology, which will enable broadband directly to mobile phones.

Airtel will also launch the same in its other operation countries including Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Starlink is among the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, such as Starlink V2, that allow standard 4G/5G phones to send messages, make calls, and access data without special hardware, bridging coverage gaps.

As of March 2026, SpaceX, which owns Starlink, operates over 9,000 satellites, accounting for about 65% of all active satellites in orbit.

LEO satellites operate between 180 and 2,000 km above Earth, offering high-speed, low-latency communication (under 0.1 seconds) and high-resolution imaging. 

Due to their proximity, they require large constellations for continuous global coverage and typically have shorter, 5-year lifespans.