Tag: SpaceX

April 24, 2025
Starlink Residential Kit Prices Rise with New Congestion Charge
Key Takeaways
1. SpaceX’s Starlink is eliminating waitlists in some cities while introducing a higher congestion fee for immediate access.
2. The congestion fee has increased from $100 to $250, raising the initial cost of the Starlink Residential Kit to around $600.
3. Pricing for Starlink services varies significantly by region, with costs as low as $149 in Kansas due to discounts and no congestion fees.
4. Starlink is struggling to meet the rising demand for its satellite Internet services, leading to data throttling for heavy users.
5. Many users prefer to remain on the waitlist rather than pay the new congestion fee, indicating dissatisfaction with the increased costs.
Elon Musk’s SpaceX, through its Starlink division, has been handling satellite Internet services in the United States by implementing waitlists and additional fees in high-demand regions. In areas where Starlink has fewer subscribers, they have also offered discounts on equipment and waived certain fees.
New Charges and Waitlist Changes
Recently, the company has begun to eliminate waitlists in several cities, instead introducing a significantly higher congestion fee. Customers who were anticipating an invitation for the Starlink Residential plan in places like Sacramento, Phoenix, San Diego, and Central Florida received unexpected news when they finally got their invitations.
SpaceX has raised the congestion fee for those wishing to bypass the waitlist and access satellite Internet immediately, increasing it from $100 to $250. This change effectively brings the initial cost of the Starlink Residential Kit back to around $600, a price point reminiscent of earlier days. The set, including the dish and router, is priced at $349, with the new congestion fee of $250 plus applicable state taxes.
Pricing Disparities Across States
As a result, the total cost to become a Starlink satellite Internet user in Sacramento, CA, is nearly $630. Meanwhile, a customer in Kansas can obtain the full kit for just $149 due to Starlink’s Regional Savings program, which offers a $200 discount and no extravagant congestion fees.
SpaceX has been struggling with the rising demand for Starlink’s satellite Internet in the US, as the service capacity frequently lags behind the demand. They have even started throttling data for heavy users, including those on the Priority tier.
Customer Reactions
The increase in congestion fees appears to be a strategy to better manage subscriptions in areas with high demand. Many users facing the one-time charge of $250 have expressed a preference to return to the waitlist instead of paying more than what a Starlink Mini Kit costs for a Residential dish.
Source:
Link
Tags: congestion charge, SpaceX, Starlink
April 18, 2025
Starlink Launches Gen 4 Router for Mini Dish Kit with Faster Speeds
Key Takeaways
1. SpaceX is upgrading its satellite Internet devices from the Starlink Mini Kit to the Flat High-Performance dish for corporate clients.
2. Production costs for the Starlink mini dish will be reduced while performance will be enhanced, also affecting the Standard Kit.
3. New devices are being developed to support gigabit-level satellite Internet speeds with the new V3 satellite constellation.
4. The upcoming Starlink Gen 4 router will feature improved specifications and a lower power requirement compared to the Gen 3 router.
5. Pricing and launch details for the Starlink Gen 4 router and updated kits are expected to be announced soon, as production is already underway.
SpaceX is set to enhance all of its satellite Internet devices later this year, upgrading from the Starlink Mini Kit to the Flat High-Performance dish aimed at corporate clients.
Cost and Performance Improvements
Sources have revealed plans to reduce production costs for the Starlink mini dish while also improving its performance. The same enhancements are expected for the Standard Kit as well.
New Technology Developments
This initiative may be linked to ongoing speculation that SpaceX is gearing up to launch gigabit-level satellite Internet download speeds, necessitating the development of devices that can support the new V3 satellite constellation’s capabilities. To maximize the benefits from these new satellites, which can deliver increased capacity per beam and offer download speeds of up to 2 Gbps with lower latency, SpaceX will also roll out new Starlink Gen 4 routers.
Advanced Router Features
One of the new routers is identified by the internal model number UTR-251 in an FCC filing, suggesting it represents a significant upgrade from the existing Starlink Gen 3 router, known as UTR-231. While the specifications for the Starlink Gen 4 router still claim Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) speeds, it supports a broader frequency range, indicating potential for quicker downloads and a more reliable connection through enhanced spectrum coverage.
The design schematics for the Starlink Gen 4 router suggest it will have a compact form factor and might be included in the refresh of the Starlink Mini Kit, as its specifications indicate a much lower power requirement compared to the current Gen 3 router.
Pricing and Availability
Regarding the pricing and expected launch date for the Starlink Gen 4 router, SpaceX may provide further information soon, especially since the new Flat High-Performance dish is allegedly already in production. This means that updates for the Starlink Mini and Standard kits should not be too far off.
Source:
Link
Tags: SpaceX, Starlink Gen 4, UTR-251
April 3, 2025
Starlink Standard Dish Offer Extended: $149 in Select States
Key Takeaways
1. SpaceX is extending its Regional Savings program for the Starlink Standard dish until April 30, offering a $200 discount.
2. Eligible customers can purchase the Starlink Standard dish for $149 by visiting Starlink.com/residential.
3. The promotion is available in 27 US states, but some specific locations may not qualify due to capacity restrictions.
4. If customers change service locations, plans, or cancel within the first 30 days without returning hardware, a $300 fee will apply.
5. The price gap between the Standard Kit and the portable Starlink Mini has increased significantly, with the Standard Kit now priced at $149 compared to the Mini at $499.
In an effort to attract more users to its Starlink satellite internet service, SpaceX has decided to prolong its Regional Savings program for the Starlink Standard dish in the United States until April 30. This program allows customers in specific US states to receive a flat $200 discount on the Standard Kit. It was announced last month and was originally scheduled to conclude on March 31.
Discount Details
Starlink.com has refreshed its landing page for the Residential plan, showing that users in selected areas can get the Starlink Standard dish for only $149 until April 30. To take advantage of this offer, simply visit Starlink.com/residential, input your eligible address, and the $200 discount will be automatically deducted at checkout. If you would rather purchase through retailers such as Best Buy or Walmart, you can still benefit from the promotion. However, instead of an immediate price drop, the $200 discount will be credited to your Starlink account as service credits after you activate the dish with either the Residential or Residential Lite plan.
Availability and Limitations
Currently, the Regional Savings promo is accessible in 27 US states, and you can find the complete list of eligible regions below. It’s important to remember that even within these states, some specific locations might not qualify due to network capacity restrictions.
Additionally, if you take advantage of the offer and then relocate your service address outside the eligible area, change your plan, or cancel within the first 30 days without returning the hardware, Starlink warns that you will incur a $300 fee.
Price Comparison
The choice to extend this promotion clearly indicates that SpaceX is focusing on the Standard Kit, even as the price gap between the Standard Kit and the portable Starlink Mini keeps increasing. As we discussed in our earlier articles, while the Mini was intended to be a more affordable option compared to the Standard Kit, it remains quite expensive in the US, and the difference between the Standard Kit and Mini has now reached a record high ($149 vs $499).
Source:
Link
Tags: SpaceX, Standard Kit, Starlink
March 25, 2025
New Starlink Mini Dish and Gigabit Satellite Internet Kit Coming
Key Takeaways
1. SpaceX is developing a new version of the Starlink Mini Kit with a more compact and portable dish.
2. Enhancements are planned for both the Mini Kit and the Flat High-Performance dish, including improved GPS functionality and better performance in poor weather.
3. The new Starlink Mini dish may be priced lower than the current $349.99 Standard Kit, with ongoing discounts available.
4. Upcoming improvements will increase download speeds to gigabit levels, potentially reaching up to 2 Gbps with the new V3 satellite constellation.
5. The new dish requires FCC regulatory approval, which may lead to faster Internet speeds for current users through dish aggregation.
SpaceX is currently developing a new version of its Starlink Mini Kit, which features a more compact and portable dish, making it easier to take anywhere.
Updates on Specifications
During a presentation at a Starlink vendor event, it was revealed that SpaceX plans to enhance both the Mini Kit and the Flat High-Performance dish. This dish enables satellite Internet access for moving vehicles even in poor weather, offering an improved field of view and enhanced GPS functionality.
Pricing Insights
The specifics of the new Starlink Mini dish are still not fully disclosed, but one of the key goals for this second generation is likely to reduce the price. Right now, it’s available for $100 off at Best Buy, although it is still significantly pricier than the Standard Kit dish, which retails for $349.99.
Speed Improvements Ahead
Even though the upcoming Starlink Mini dish might come at a lower cost, SpaceX is also planning to enhance the download speeds of its satellite Internet kits. At the vendor event, Starlink representatives stated that a new dish would deliver much faster gigabit-level Internet.
Future Developments
It remains uncertain whether they were referring to the upcoming refresh of the Flat High-Performance dish or a new product aimed at enterprise customers. Last fall, SpaceX announced plans to launch a constellation of V3 satellites, which will offer increased capacity per beam and achieve download speeds of up to 2 Gbps with reduced latency.
Regulatory Hurdles
The new gigabit Starlink dish must still go through the FCC for regulatory approval, where SpaceX is advocating for higher power limits and permissions to operate at lower altitudes.
If these regulatory changes occur, it could enable faster Internet speeds for current Starlink users through dish aggregation while they await the new dishes that will support wider bandwidth, taking full advantage of the forthcoming V3 satellite constellation for gigabit speeds.
Source:
Link
Tags: gigabit Internet, SpaceX, Starlink Mini Kit
March 18, 2025
Starlink Launches Affordable Satellite Internet Plan for Casual Users
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Pricing: The new Starlink Roam Internet plan costs just $10/month for 10 GB of data, making it an economical option for users needing extra internet access.
2. Flexible Usage: This plan can be used indefinitely as a backup for home internet or for travel, camping, and other on-the-go situations.
3. Additional Data Costs: Users can purchase extra data at a rate of $2/GB if they exceed the initial 10 GB limit.
4. Higher Tier Options: The next tier for Starlink offers 50 GB for $50/month, while the most expensive plan provides unlimited data for $165/month.
5. Equipment Costs Remain: The prices for Starlink dishes remain the same, with the Standard Kit at $349 and a current discount on the Mini Kit, but existing users can benefit from the new low-cost plan.
SpaceX has rolled out its most affordable Starlink satellite Internet plan, which is designed for users who need an extra data source while on the go, or when their home Internet goes down for any reason.
Flexible Usage
This appealing Starlink Roam Internet plan can be maintained as a backup option indefinitely, making it perfect for traveling, camping, or simply as a secondary Internet source.
The most economical Starlink data plan is priced at just $10/month and is available as a selection in the app. It provides 10 GB of data at full speed, with SpaceX charging $2/GB for any additional data usage.
Pricing Options
While the next tier for the Starlink roaming Internet plan offers 50GB of fast data, it comes at a cost of $50/month, which many may think is too pricey for occasional use.
The priciest Starlink Internet plan is $165/month for unlimited roaming data, so this new $10/month option could really be valuable for those who use it only from time to time.
Some users are even mentioning that, with this price point, they might never cancel their subscription and plan to keep a Starlink dish in their car trunk, just in case they need it.
Equipment Costs
Sadly, the prices for the Starlink Standard Kit and Starlink Mini dish remain unchanged at $349 for the Standard kit from Best Buy, although there is a $120 discount on the Starlink Mini Kit now.
Nonetheless, those who have previously purchased a Starlink dish for home use or travel will definitely find value in the new low-cost satellite Internet plan of only $10/month that SpaceX has introduced.
Source:
Link

Tags: satellite internet, SpaceX, Starlink
March 12, 2025
Airtel Collaborates with SpaceX for Starlink Internet in India
Key Takeaways
1. Airtel and SpaceX are partnering to bring Starlink’s satellite internet services to India, aiming to close the digital gap, especially in rural areas.
2. The partnership relies on regulatory approval for Starlink to operate commercially in India.
3. Airtel plans to distribute Starlink hardware through its retail stores and provide satellite internet to business clients.
4. This collaboration enhances Airtel’s position in the satellite broadband market, combining various connectivity options.
5. SpaceX’s entry into India is a significant move, leveraging Airtel’s local expertise to address connectivity challenges in the country.
India’s internet scene is about to see a big change as Airtel and SpaceX team up to bring Starlink’s satellite internet services to one of the most populated countries in the world. This important agreement, revealed today, marks a significant move towards closing the digital gap in India, especially in rural and less served areas.
A New Era of Connectivity
However, this deal depends on SpaceX getting the green light from regulators to operate Starlink commercially in India. After approval, this partnership will combine Airtel’s wide market presence with Starlink’s advanced low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology to deliver smooth broadband access throughout the country. This could transform connectivity for India’s remote villages, businesses, and vital services like schools and healthcare facilities.
Impacts on Businesses and Communities
This collaboration anticipates Airtel distributing Starlink hardware via its retail stores and providing enterprise-level satellite internet to business clients. The potential outcomes are extensive; picture businesses in remote Himalayan villages or deep in the Thar Desert finally being able to access reliable, high-speed internet without depending on unreliable ground networks.
Airtel’s Expanding Reach
This isn’t Airtel’s first step into satellite internet; the telecom leader already has a partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, another LEO satellite provider. However, incorporating Starlink into its offerings boosts Airtel’s goal to lead in the satellite broadband market, delivering customers unmatched coverage and backup options. By blending fiber, terrestrial mobile networks, and various satellite internet providers, Airtel is setting itself up as the most adaptable connectivity provider in India.
SpaceX’s Ambitious Step
For SpaceX, entering the Indian market is a long-awaited breakthrough. The country’s unique geographic and infrastructure challenges make it an ideal testing ground for Starlink’s satellite-based broadband. With Airtel’s deep insight into local telecom laws, consumer habits, and distribution methods, SpaceX gains a vital foothold in a nation where connectivity issues still exist.
If this partnership clears regulatory challenges, Starlink might revolutionize India’s telecom industry, providing high-speed internet to places where traditional broadband has struggled.
Tags: Airtel, SpaceX, Starlink
March 6, 2025
Starlink Standard Dish Now $149 in Select US States
Key Takeaways
1. Starlink Standard dish price lowered to $149 in select US states, a $200 discount from the usual $349.
2. Discount applies to Residential and Residential Lite service plans and is automatically deducted when purchased from starlink.com.
3. Purchase from authorized retailers like Best Buy still qualifies for the discount as service credits after activation.
4. Offer available in 27 US states until March 31, but eligibility may vary due to network congestion in certain areas.
5. Starlink dish price history shows several reductions, from $599 in January 2024 to the current $149 under the Regional Savings initiative.
SpaceX has lowered the cost of the Starlink Standard Kit in the United States, with the satellite dish now significantly discounted in specific states where there is an abundance of network availability.
New Pricing Details
Customers in qualifying US states can now purchase a Starlink Standard dish for only $149, which is a direct $200 off the usual price of $349. This price cut is part of the company’s “Regional Savings” initiative and applies exclusively to the Residential and Residential Lite service plans. When you buy directly from starlink.com, the discount will be automatically deducted at checkout. If you choose to buy the hardware from an authorized retailer like Best Buy, you will still qualify for the discount, but it will come as service credits to your Starlink account after activation.
Eligibility and Limitations
The $200 discount is accessible in 27 US states until March 31. According to Starlink’s coverage map, some areas within these states might not qualify for the offer due to network congestion. Therefore, it’s a good idea to visit starlink.com to confirm if your service address is eligible.
Starlink also cautions that if you relocate your address outside of these eligible regions, switch your service plan, or cancel the service during the 30-day trial without returning your Starlink dish, a $300 fee will apply.
Price History Overview
Looking at the bigger picture, the Starlink Standard dish has undergone several price adjustments since it debuted in January 2024 at a price of $599. In June 2024, SpaceX reduced the cost to $499 and rolled out a new Regional Savings program that offered a further $200 discount for new customers. Then in July, certain regions saw the dish priced at $199, with new users able to receive discounts up to $300 under the same program. Finally, in October, SpaceX set a nationwide price of $349 and discontinued the Regional Savings discount, which had already been lowered to $100.
Source:
Link

Tags: SpaceX, Starlink, Starlink Standard Kit
February 13, 2025
US Smartphones May Soon Connect to Starlink Satellites for Free
Key Takeaways
1. SpaceX and T-Mobile announced free internet access via Starlink satellites as part of a beta test, starting in July with fees afterward.
2. The service is open to all users, not just T-Mobile customers, through a sign-up form.
3. Starlink’s Direct to Cell technology allows phones to connect for broadband service where cellular coverage is lacking.
4. Initially, the service will support text messaging, with plans to expand to picture messaging, data, and voice calls after the beta period.
5. Pricing will vary: free for Go5G Next plan users, $15 per month for others, and $20 per month for customers of other providers post-beta.
SpaceX and T-Mobile revealed at the Super Bowl that users can get internet through the Starlink satellites at no charge. They confirmed during the event that this access will be part of a beta test, which will start charging from July. After that, users will need an eSim smartphone to use the service, which will be priced accordingly.
Access for All Users
This complimentary access isn’t only for T-Mobile customers; anyone who signs up via the T-Mobile form can join the trial.
Starlink has deployed 451 satellites known as Direct to Cell, which enable phones to link up and get broadband when cellular service is out of reach. This means users in the US can maintain a steady connection.
How It Works
The company explains, “Direct to Cell technology—functions like cellphone towers in space—enabling connections almost anywhere you can see the sky,” according to the T-Mobile website. However, the beta services are quite limited to text messaging through users’ native apps. In the future, after the beta period, services will expand to include picture messaging, data, and voice calls.
Currently, roughly 500,000 square miles in the US lack coverage from any wireless provider, making this service a significant advantage, as noted by T-Mobile.
Pricing Details
Starting in July, the service will be free for those on the Go5G Next plan and other plans will cost $15 per month. Early testers who aren’t on the free plan will benefit from a $5 monthly discount. Additionally, customers of Verizon, AT&T, and others can access T-Mobile Starlink without switching providers for $20 per month once the beta concludes in July.
Source:
Link
Tags: SpaceX, Starlink, T-Mobile
January 29, 2025
Starlink Internet Now Compatible with iPhones on iOS 18.3
When SpaceX made history by sending the first tweet from space to a phone located in a remote area without any cell tower, they showcased a Samsung device for this groundbreaking event.
The same goes for the initial video streaming session that T-Mobile was the first carrier to engage in, utilizing Starlink’s direct-to-cell service. Interestingly, the phone used was found to be a Verizon Galaxy S21, diverging from the expected T-Mobile model. However, this demonstration aimed to show that Starlink’s satellite service can work with any unmodified carrier phone, unlike the cumbersome satellite phones from the past.
iPhones Enter the Scene
Now, it appears that iPhones have also become part of the Starlink direct-to-cell satellite connectivity initiative, with insiders revealing that Apple has been collaborating with SpaceX for some time. This new Starlink service provides an alternative to Apple’s own partnership with Globalstar, which focuses on emergency satellite connectivity for iPhones.
Recently, SpaceX completed the launch of the first shell of its direct-to-cell satellite constellation, which includes about 330 Starlink satellites. This initial constellation allows users to send messages, exchange images, and stream podcasts, as shared by Elon Musk. The next phase is expected to introduce streaming video in locations where traditional carrier networks are unavailable.
Beta Testing and Future Support
At this time, T-Mobile is rolling out a beta version of the Starlink service, limited to short messaging via satellites. Selected iPhone users in the beta program are being notified that they can now text using Starlink satellites, provided they update their devices to the latest iOS 18.3 version.
T-Mobile has mentioned that the direct-to-cell service is launching with “optimized” devices, and Apple has reportedly been working hard to ensure that its iPhones meet these criteria. Elon Musk hinted at Starlink’s potential when Apple teamed up with Globalstar for the iPhone 14, indicating that Apple has chosen to pursue SpaceX’s option. Once the Starlink connectivity feature exits beta testing, T-Mobile asserts that it will be compatible with most newer mobile phones.
Source:
Link
Tags: Galaxy s21, iPhone 14, SpaceX
January 29, 2025
iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity
Back in 2022, Apple introduced the iPhone 14 series, which came equipped with a crucial satellite connectivity feature aimed at saving lives. This capability has continued with the release of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models. Now, it appears that Apple is enhancing this technology through a confidential collaboration with SpaceX and T-Mobile.
Partnership for Enhanced Connectivity
According to a recent report from Bloomberg, the company from Cupertino is quietly collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones. This initiative likely utilizes the partnership that T-Mobile and SpaceX announced in 2022. The report also indicates that T-Mobile has started testing this feature with a limited group of iPhone users.
Current Status of the Feature
At this moment, the feature is still in beta testing, so it may not provide a seamless experience just yet. However, users with iPhones running iOS 18.3, which was launched earlier this week, can access the feature. T-Mobile noted in their official communication regarding the Starlink beta that, “You can now stay connected by texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”
Future Plans and Expectations
For those who might not know, T-Mobile previously announced that Samsung Galaxy phones would also gain support for Starlink communication. Currently, the collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink for Apple devices focuses solely on sending messages via satellite. Nonetheless, there are intentions to introduce voice calls and data services in the future. Earlier, there had been rumors of Apple working with GlobalStar for its satellite features, but now it seems the partnership with T-Mobile is expanding, with expectations that all users will gain access to this feature by the end of the year.
Tags: iPhone 15, SpaceX, T-Mobile