Airtel to expand coverage in Nigeria with Starlink Direct-to-Cell deal

Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to launch Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellite service across its 14 markets in Africa, including Nigeria. This collaboration will enable mobile users in areas lacking traditional network coverage to connect directly to Starlink satellites using compatible smartphones.

The partnership was announced in a company statement on Tuesday. Initial services will concentrate on text messaging and certain data applications, with expanded broadband capabilities anticipated once regulatory approvals are obtained in each country.

Starlink’s next-generation satellite system aims to deliver much higher speeds compared to earlier satellite-to-mobile solutions, potentially enhancing connectivity in regions where building terrestrial networks is challenging or expensive.

Airtel wants to expand Africa’s connectivity

Airtel Africa has 174 million customers, and Starlink Direct-to-Cell could greatly improve digital access for them. Many rural and remote areas in Africa still have poor or unreliable mobile coverage. This lack of connectivity affects education and business opportunities. Starlink Direct-to-Cell aims to close this gap by allowing smartphones to connect to satellite networks where traditional towers can’t reach.

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Airtel’s Managing Director, Sunil Taldar, described the partnership as a step toward “establishing a new standard for service availability” across its markets. SpaceX’s Vice President of Sales, Stephanie Bednarek, added that the service will enable people in remote regions to stay connected without needing to change their existing devices.

The rollout also marks a first for Africa, as Airtel becomes the continent’s first operator to deploy Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service. Powered by around 650 satellites, the system is designed to complement existing mobile networks rather than replace them, particularly in hard-to-reach locations.

What the adoption of satellite technology could change

This could change how mobile operators improve coverage in areas with limited service. By using satellite technology, operators can lower the costs of building new infrastructure and make service more reliable.

However, deployment will depend on getting approvals from each country, which could affect when and how it happens. There may also be technical challenges, like keeping stable connections in crowded or remote areas, as the system grows.

This partnership could lead to more future collaborations between satellite providers and mobile operators in Africa. It aims to improve internet access for millions who currently cannot connect due to location or cost issues. The first phase of Starlink Direct-to-Cell is set to launch in 2026. It will start with basic services like texting and limited data applications.