THE AFRICA TIMES | DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO — Airtel Africa and SpaceX’s Starlink have initiated a satellite-to-phone service in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This launch is heralded as the first commercial deployment of such technology in Africa.
Service Overview
The service was commercially launched on August 14, enabling eligible Airtel customers to connect compatible smartphones directly to Starlink satellites. This connection is particularly beneficial in areas lacking conventional mobile coverage.
Technology Distinction
In contrast to Starlink’s traditional satellite internet service, the new satellite-to-phone technology does not require the installation of a satellite dish. Instead, compatible smartphones connect directly to satellites, which serve as mobile network towers located in space.
