Airtel Uganda Tests Starlink Satellite-to-Phone Service

Airtel Uganda has begun testing Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology, a satellite-based service that allows ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites without requiring additional hardware. The trial forms part of the operator’s efforts to improve connectivity in areas where building traditional telecom infrastructure remains difficult or commercially challenging.

The company announced the pilot on May 19 through a LinkedIn post, describing it as an opportunity to evaluate how satellite-enabled mobile services could complement existing network coverage across Uganda.

Connecting Smartphones Directly to Satellites

Unlike conventional mobile networks that depend on ground-based towers, Direct-to-Cell technology uses low-Earth orbit satellites as cellular relay stations. Compatible smartphones can automatically connect to these satellites, enabling access to voice calls, text messaging and selected data services even in locations beyond the reach of traditional mobile infrastructure.

According to Airtel Uganda Chief Executive Officer Soumendra Sahu, the technology has the potential to bridge connectivity gaps in some of the country’s most remote regions.

“This service will make it possible to extend connectivity to remote and hard-to-reach areas seamlessly. The technology automatically links smartphones to satellites, improving access to calls, text messaging, and selected data services,” Sahu said.

The trial symbolizes an early step in a broader partnership between Airtel Africa and SpaceX announced in 2025. Under the agreement, the companies plan to introduce Starlink Direct-to-Cell services across Airtel’s African markets from 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and technical readiness in each country.

Uganda’s Internet Access Gap

Uganda continues to face challenges in expanding digital access because of infrastructure limitations. Extending network coverage to sparsely populated and geographically challenging areas has long required significant investment in towers, power systems and backhaul connections. Satellite-based mobile services could offer an alternative route to reaching communities that remain underserved by conventional networks.

Connectivity remains a significant challenge in the country. Data from the Uganda Communications Commission shows that 18.5 million users were accessing mobile internet services out of a total 47.1 million mobile subscriptions at the end of 2025.

Meanwhile, DataReportal estimated that Uganda had approximately 11.4 million internet users at the beginning of 2026, equivalent to an internet penetration rate of 22%.