Airtel Madagascar Completes Satellite Trial With SpaceX

Airtel Madagascar has successfully completed the country’s first trial of SpaceX’s Direct-to-Cell satellite technology, demonstrating mobile connectivity directly from Starlink satellites to a standard 4G smartphone without the need for specialised hardware or satellite equipment.

The trial took place on 11 July in Sadabe and was attended by Madagascar’s Minister of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications, Mahefa Andriamampiadana, alongside officials from the country’s communications regulator, ARTEC, and the National Bureau for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC).

During the demonstration, participants successfully tested text messaging, WhatsApp messaging, voice and video calls, as well as access to online platforms including Facebook and YouTube. According to the ministry, the trial also featured Madagascar’s first WhatsApp video call conducted over a direct-to-cell satellite connection. The technology enables ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites in areas beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks.

Unlike traditional Starlink satellite internet, which requires a satellite dish and dedicated equipment, Direct-to-Cell allows existing 4G devices to communicate with satellites using a mobile operator’s licensed spectrum and standard SIM cards. The approach is designed to extend mobile coverage into remote and underserved areas where deploying terrestrial network infrastructure may not be economically viable.

Speaking during the event, Minister Andriamampiadana said Madagascar welcomes technologies that expand digital connectivity while ensuring compliance with the country’s legal and regulatory framework. He noted that any commercial deployment of the service would remain subject to approval by the national communications regulator, ARTEC.

The Madagascar demonstration marks the third African market to test SpaceX’s Direct-to-Cell technology under Airtel Africa’s partnership with the satellite provider. Kenya conducted similar trials earlier this year, followed by Uganda in May. Airtel Africa signed its agreement with SpaceX in December 2025 to introduce Direct-to-Cell services across its 14 African markets, covering a customer base of approximately 174 million subscribers.

The company expects the commercial rollout to begin with messaging and basic data services before expanding to support additional applications, including voice services, as the satellite network evolves. The initiative builds on Airtel Africa’s broader collaboration with SpaceX, which also includes offering Starlink satellite broadband services to enterprise customers, schools and healthcare facilities in several African countries where the service has been licensed.

In Madagascar, Airtel says the technology has the potential to improve connectivity for more than five million subscribers, particularly those living in remote areas with limited or no conventional mobile coverage.

The trial also highlights growing competition in the emerging direct-to-cell satellite communications market. Across Africa, several mobile operators have announced partnerships with satellite providers to extend network coverage beyond traditional infrastructure, reflecting increasing industry interest in using low-Earth orbit satellite technology to bridge connectivity gaps.

While the successful demonstration represents an important milestone for Madagascar, commercial deployment will depend on regulatory approval and the completion of further technical and operational assessments before the service becomes available to customers.