Airtel Africa has officially launched Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite service in the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking the first commercial deployment of the technology by a mobile operator on the continent. The service enables standard LTE Android smartphones to connect directly to satellites in areas lacking terrestrial network coverage, providing essential connectivity for messaging and light data without the need for specialized equipment. This hybrid network approach allows Airtel to extend its reach into remote regions, with plans to expand to its other 13 African markets following successful trials and regulatory approvals.