Airtel Kenya is poised to launch a groundbreaking satellite calling service for ordinary smartphones, pending approval from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

• The service, dubbed Direct-to-Cell, allows smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites when ground mobile signals are unavailable.
• Airtel Kenya Managing Director Djibril Tobe confirmed a successful pilot and stated the company is ready to roll out the service upon regulatory clearance.
• The CA is currently reviewing Airtel's application, with potential concerns about signal interference and licensing for Starlink being key factors in the delay.