Airtel Madagascar Becomes First in Country to Test SpaceX Direct-to-Cell Technology

Airtel Madagascar  has become the first mobile network operator in Madagascar to test SpaceX ‘s Direct-to-Cell technology, marking a milestone in expanding connectivity to underserved and remote areas. The successful trial, conducted on July 11, enabled a standard 4G smartphone to connect directly to a satellite without requiring specialised terrestrial infrastructure. The demonstration also marked the first successful WhatsApp Direct-to-Cell call in Madagascar.

The technology is designed to improve connectivity in isolated geographic areas while strengthening the continuity of telecommunications services when terrestrial infrastructure is temporarily unavailable. Airtel said the capability could provide an important layer of resilience for communications during emergencies and in hard-to-reach locations.

The demonstration took place in Sadabe in the presence of Madagascar’s Minister of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications, representatives from the National Bureau for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC), and officials from the Communications Technologies Regulatory Authority (ARTEC). According to the company, the trial aligns with the partnership between SpaceX and Airtel Africa to bring satellite connectivity to African markets and supports preparations for a potential commercial rollout, subject to the successful completion of ARTEC’s regulatory evaluation.

During the demonstration, participants used a standard 4G smartphone to connect seamlessly to the satellite network, enabling SMS, WhatsApp messaging, WhatsApp voice and video calls, as well as access to streaming platforms and social media services including YouTube and Facebook.

Airtel Madagascar said the technology addresses the country’s unique geographic challenges, where remote regions can be difficult to serve through conventional mobile infrastructure. Beyond improving connectivity, the solution could help maintain telecommunications services during disruptions to terrestrial networks, particularly during natural disasters, facilitating communication between communities, authorities, emergency services and field teams.

The company also highlighted the technology’s potential to support economic activities, public services and field operations that require reliable communications beyond the reach of traditional terrestrial mobile coverage, contributing to greater digital inclusion.

“Being the first operator to test Direct-to-Cell in Madagascar reflects our ambition: to ensure that the innovations transforming global telecommunications also benefit the Malagasy people.”

– Anne Catherine Tchokonté, Managing Director, Airtel Madagascar

Airtel Madagascar said the demonstration represents an important step in assessing the technology within the Malagasy market. Working alongside SpaceX and ARTEC, the company will evaluate potential use cases and deployment conditions while gathering insights that will inform decisions on a future commercial launch. Airtel added that the initiative reinforces its commitment to supporting Madagascar’s digital transformation, expanding resilient telecommunications infrastructure and fostering a more inclusive digital ecosystem.