Big news for Kenyan Android users!
Airtel Kenya has officially partnered with Google to allow direct payments on Google Play using Airtel Money. This is a major win for millions of users who don’t have access to credit cards but want to download premium apps, subscribe to services, or make in-app purchases.
Here’s everything you need to know about this game-changing partnership.
What’s the Deal?
As of March 2025, Airtel Money users in Kenya can now pay for apps, games, movies, and subscriptions directly from their Google Play account—no debit card required.
Instead of relying on bank integrations or top-up cards, you can now just:
- Choose the item on Google Play.
- Select “Pay with Airtel” at checkout.
- Authorize the payment via your Airtel Money PIN.
- Boom—you’re done!
Fast. Easy. Secure.
Why This Partnership Matters
Expands Access to Digital Content
Millions of Kenyans use Android smartphones, but many don’t have access to bank cards. This new payment method breaks down barriers to digital access and makes the Google Play Store more inclusive.
Boost for App Developers
Local developers now have a bigger market. Users are more likely to buy apps or subscribe when payment is easier—this means more revenue for developers and more innovation in the region.
Safe and Convenient
With mobile money being the most trusted form of digital payment in Kenya, users can now make purchases with peace of mind, without risking sensitive bank data.
How to Activate Airtel Money on Google Play
Here’s how to set it up:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Tap on your Profile icon > Payments & subscriptions > Payment methods.
- Select “Add Airtel” or “Use Airtel Billing”.
- Follow the prompts to verify your Airtel number.
- Start buying apps or making in-app purchases using Airtel Money!
Note: Make sure your Airtel SIM is inserted in SIM Slot 1 and is active for this to work.
Kenya Joins the Global Mobile Payments Wave
With this move, Kenya becomes one of the few African countries where Google has enabled telco billing through mobile money. It’s another sign that tech in East Africa is evolving fast, and big tech players like Google are paying attention.
What Airtel & Google Are Saying
“This partnership is a significant step towards digital and financial inclusion. We want all Kenyans to access global digital content using locally available solutions like Airtel Money.”
— Ashish Malhotra, CEO of Airtel Kenya
“We’re excited to bring more flexibility to Kenyan users and enable a smoother app buying experience through mobile money.”
— Mariama Abdullahi, Director of Android Platform Partnerships, Africa at Google
What Can You Buy Using Airtel Money on Google Play?
- Paid Apps
- In-App Game Purchases (like coins, skins, upgrades)
- Movies & TV Shows
- YouTube Premium
- Google Play Books
- App Subscriptions (VPNs, storage, learning platforms)
Final Thoughts
The Airtel Money + Google Play partnership is a massive win for the Kenyan digital economy.
It removes friction, expands access, and empowers users to explore premium content and services with just a few taps—no bank account needed.
If you’re an Airtel user, try it out today and experience the freedom of mobile-first payments!
