Airtel Africa launches Starlink satellite-to-phone service in DRC
Airtel Africa commercially launched a Starlink Mobile direct-to-phone service on 14 August 2026 in the DRC, letting eligible customers connect compatible smartphones directly to Starlink satellites where mobile coverage is limited. Airtel says the hybrid approach extends connectivity beyond conventional infrastructure, with rollout to other markets planned subject to country regulatory approvals. Customers need an active DRC data bundle or roaming enabled.