Algérie Télécom to distribute Thuraya skyphone

UAE satellite operator Yahsat has partnered with Algérie Télécom Satellite to become the authorized distributor of its mobile satellite communication arm Thuraya's direct-to-device (D2D) satellite smartphone in Algeria.

Under the partnership, Algérie Télécom Satellite will distribute Thuraya's new Skyphone through mobile network operators (MNOs) and other authorized distributors in Algeria.

Algérie Télécom Satellite has become the first partner to be named as a Skyphone distributor by Thuraya.

The announcement comes after Thuraya's unveiling of the device during last month's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

The Skyphone is a 5G Android smartphone with two nano-SIM card slots for both terrestrial and satellite communications. It can also be used with SIM cards from mobile operators affiliated with Thuraya's roaming services.

Algérie Télécom Satellite will distribute Thuraya's new Skyphone through mobile network operators (MNOs) and other authorized distributors in Algeria. (Source: Vectonauta on Freepik)

"This important step embodies a strong partnership that has lasted for nearly two decades between Thuraya and Algérie Télécom Satellite. It also underscores Thuraya's distinguished position as a global leader in satellite communication and data services in Algeria and worldwide," said Yahsat Group Chief Executive Officer Ali Al Hashemi.

"Algérie Télécom Satellite is committed to providing various sectors of business, government, and private institutions in Algeria with superior capabilities in satellite communications by keeping up with the latest developments in this field, enabling our customers to increase their effectiveness and growth," added Algérie Télécom Satellite CEO Yassin Sellahi.

African satellite trend

Africa has seen a growing interest in satellite connectivity recently, with companies like SpaceX's Starlink and OneWeb using low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to launch services in a number of African countries.

Earlier this year, Vaibhav Magow, VP of the international division at Hughes Network Systems, predicted that the satellite industry will play a significant role in enabling Internet access for individuals, communities and businesses in Africa and other underserved regions in 2024.

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Additionally, in November 2023, Vodacom Group Chief Technology Officer Dejan Kastelic said he believed direct-to-mobile satellite connectivity will go a long way in connecting underserved communities in South Africa and on the continent.

*Top image is of Yahsat Group Chief Executive Officer Ali Al Hashemi and Algérie Télécom Satellite CEO Yassin Sellahi. (Source: Yahsat)

— Matshepo Sehloho, Associate Editor, Connecting Africa