Airtel Africa has successfully tested Starlink satellite-to-phone connectivity, enabling standard 4G smartphones to access data and messaging services in areas without traditional cell towers.

• Tests allowed users to connect to Starlink's constellation of 650 low-Earth orbit satellites for services like WhatsApp calling and financial transactions via the Airtel app.
• The technology bypasses the need for specialized hardware, connecting directly to customers' existing smartphones.
• This milestone positions Airtel Africa to scale its services across its 14 African markets, pending regulatory approvals, with future plans for voice calling and expanded broadband capabilities.