Airtel Africa mentioned on Tuesday it had efficiently examined satellite-to-mobile knowledge and messaging providers in Kenya utilizing know-how from SpaceX’s Starlink, marking a step towards increasing connectivity in distant areas.
The checks, performed in areas with out terrestrial cell protection, enabled 4G-compatible smartphones to attach on to Starlink’s satellite tv for pc community, permitting customers to entry fundamental knowledge providers.
Throughout the trial, customers have been in a position to make use of functions equivalent to WhatsApp, Fb Messenger and mapping providers, in addition to full monetary transactions by Airtel’s cell app, the corporate mentioned.
The service depends on Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite tv for pc constellation, which Airtel mentioned at present contains tons of of deployed satellites able to offering protection in underserved areas.
Chief Govt Sunil Taldar mentioned the checks demonstrated the corporate’s efforts to increase connectivity past the attain of conventional cell networks.
Airtel Africa and SpaceX plan to make use of insights from the Kenya trials to develop the service throughout Airtel’s 14 African markets, topic to regulatory approvals.
The businesses additionally goal to introduce voice calling and enhanced knowledge capabilities utilizing next-generation Starlink know-how designed to ship broadband on to cell units.
Airtel Africa operates in 14 international locations throughout sub-Saharan Africa, offering cell and monetary providers to greater than 170 million prospects.
