A commercial satellite-to-mobile service has gone live in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), allowing mobile subscribers with standard smartphones to access connectivity beyond terrestrial network range, says Airtel Africa.
The commercial deployment in the Central African country follows a partnership formed between Airtel Africa and SpaceX – owner of Starlink – to deliver direct-to-cell connectivity across the continent.
The satellite constellation enables light-data applications – including WhatsApp messaging and Short Message Service – to operate on compatible Long-Term Evolution Android smartphones without requiring additional hardware.
Subscribers require an active data bundle or enabled data roaming to access the service, with support for Apple devices planned for future updates.
"By combining Airtel’s terrestrial network with Starlink’s satellite technology, we are extending essential connectivity beyond the limits of conventional mobile infrastructure," says Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa.
"The DRC is leading this important development, and the experience gained here will support the progressive expansion of the service across our markets, subject to country-specific regulatory approvals."
The remote connectivity capability targets logistics operators, humanitarian agencies, healthcare staff, mining operations and rural communities operating beyond terrestrial tower range.
"Our country’s size and geography mean that many people live, work and travel beyond the reach of conventional mobile infrastructure," says Thierry Diasonama, managing director of Airtel DRC.
"This service provides an additional layer of connectivity, helping customers remain reachable, informed and connected even in areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable."
Airtel Africa previously listed as a launch partner for Starlink Direct-to-Cell across its 14 African operating markets, representing a total base of more than 170 million subscribers.
Rivals, including mobile operator MTN, have also conducted technical field tests of satellite-to-cell technologies in regional markets including Zambia.
Eligible subscribers in the DRC can register through the MyAirtel app to access a 30-day introductory trial as the service undergoes wider operational expansion.
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