Vodacom plans to launch a direct-to-cell satellite service in South Africa by the end of 2027, allowing compatible smartphones to connect directly to satellites without relying on nearby mobile towers.
The service is expected to extend mobile connectivity to areas beyond Vodacom’s terrestrial network, particularly locations where fibre cuts and the cost of building telecommunications towers can limit coverage. US-based AST SpaceMobile is considered the most likely technology partner, although Vodacom has not confirmed its selection.
AST SpaceMobile has worked with Vodacom since 2020. In 2023, Vodafone and AST demonstrated the technology through what they described as the first space-based 5G voice call using an unmodified Samsung Galaxy S22.
Vodacom Chief Executive Officer Shameel Joosub said further detailed testing would be required before the service could be commercially deployed. The operator and its eventual satellite partner must complete additional technical and operational preparations ahead of the planned launch.
The initiative follows similar satellite-to-phone developments by other telecommunications operators across Africa. In 2023, Lynk Global signed an agreement with Vodafone Ghana to extend satellite connectivity to its subscribers.
Airtel Africa and Starlink also activated a commercial satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of Congo in August, initially supporting text messages and limited data applications, including WhatsApp. Meanwhile, MTN South Africa tested satellite-to-phone technology with Lynk in 2025.
Early satellite-to-phone services are expected to provide intermittent connectivity and basic messaging or data capabilities rather than the full range of services available through conventional terrestrial networks.
Joosub confirmed that Vodacom’s planned service will not support 2G and 3G phones, meaning customers will require compatible smartphones to access the technology.
The planned deployment reflects growing efforts by telecommunications operators to use satellite networks to extend coverage beyond conventional mobile infrastructure, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
