Tag: Starlink

  • T-Mobile Cuts Starlink Satellite Service Price 50% for Verizon, AT&T

    T-Mobile Cuts Starlink Satellite Service Price 50% for Verizon, AT&T

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile will reduce the monthly fee for Starlink connectivity to $10, significantly lower than AT&T and Verizon’s rates.
    2. The service currently offers limited messaging functionality, primarily for emergency texts, but is expected to expand to voice and data services in the future.
    3. T-Mobile’s Starlink service will be available to customers of AT&T and Verizon, not just T-Mobile users.
    4. Virtual eSIM cards will allow users to access Starlink connectivity while using multiple carriers simultaneously.
    5. T-Mobile will offer free Starlink connectivity to premium plan subscribers at the official launch in July.

    At the recent earnings call for T-Mobile, the company revealed important details about the pricing for its Starlink satellite service, which is set to exit its beta phase in July.

    Pricing Details for Starlink

    T-Mobile plans to lower the monthly fee for Starlink connectivity to $10. This is a significant reduction compared to the fees for AT&T and Verizon customers, who would pay double that amount, and $15 for T-Mobile users. Although this service currently provides limited functionality—mainly messaging when users are outside T-Mobile’s coverage—it has been highlighted by the carrier as potentially “lifesaving” for emergency texts. This was part of their argument for an FCC exemption to speed up the service’s rollout to older mobile devices.

    Future Capabilities

    Additionally, the growth of SpaceX’s direct-to-cell satellite network will enable T-Mobile’s Starlink users to access voice and data services, including the ability to stream podcasts and videos. T-Mobile’s CEO, Mike Sievert, confirmed that the $10 monthly Starlink service will also be available to customers of AT&T and Verizon, just like it is currently offered during its beta phase.

    How Connectivity Works

    To enable Starlink connectivity for users of Verizon or AT&T, T-Mobile uses virtual eSIM cards available in devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, allowing customers to utilize two carriers simultaneously. While in beta, T-Mobile has also made the service available for free to those who switch from AT&T or Verizon to their network, although it is uncertain how many individuals have taken up this offer.

    For T-Mobile subscribers who are on premium plans such as Experience Beyond and Go5G Next, the Starlink connectivity will also be offered at no cost when the service officially launches in July.

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  • Starlink Residential Kit Prices Rise with New Congestion Charge

    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.

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  • T-Mobile Offers Starlink Coverage for Older Phones for Emergency Messaging

    T-Mobile Offers Starlink Coverage for Older Phones for Emergency Messaging

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile seeks FCC waiver for easier device approval for its Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) service.
    2. The SCS service currently supports a range of devices, including newer iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Pixel models.
    3. Users with older phones, like the iPhone 13 series, may face challenges due to extensive FCC paperwork for access during the beta phase.
    4. T-Mobile argues that device-specific approvals hinder access to critical services and emergency alerts in remote areas.
    5. The partnership with Starlink currently offers messaging, with plans to expand data services as satellite coverage grows.

    T-Mobile has asked the FCC to allow a waiver for its requirement to approve each device for the Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) service.

    Current Offerings

    The SCS list features the Starlink satellite messaging service, which T-Mobile is providing for free in beta to all phone users, even those on Verizon or AT&T, ahead of its full launch in July. The current compatibility includes devices from the iPhone 14 to iPhone 16, as well as the Samsung Galaxy 21 and Pixel 9 series and newer. It even extends to older models like the Galaxy A14 that have been approved in the last few years.

    Legacy Devices and Challenges

    However, users with older phones such as the iPhone 13 series may face a daunting amount of FCC authorization paperwork if they wish to access Starlink satellite messaging during the beta phase. Those who still use these devices might find themselves in a tough spot when trying to enjoy the free service.

    T-Mobile argues to the FCC that forcing companies or their SCS partners to restrict access based on individual device approvals—when it’s not a technical barrier—goes against public interest. They believe this approach would help people receive vital services and emergency alerts in hard-to-reach areas, especially in emergencies.

    Life-Saving Services

    The carrier emphasizes that the burdensome FCC authorization process for each device hinders access to “life-saving” services on older phones and is urging the regulator to fix this issue. Right now, T-Mobile’s partnership with Starlink only provides a messaging service, but as SpaceX’s satellite network expands, the service is expected to also deliver data to remote locations without cell tower coverage.

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  • Elon Musk’s Epic Fail in Path of Exile 2: Higher You Fly, Harder You Fall

    Elon Musk’s Epic Fail in Path of Exile 2: Higher You Fly, Harder You Fall

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elon Musk attempted to showcase his gaming skills in Path of Exile 2 but was revealed to have hired someone to play for him.
    2. During a live stream from an airplane using Starlink internet, Musk struggled significantly, failing to progress past the second boss and then losing to the tutorial boss.
    3. The stream, titled “Starlink Airborne Continuity Test,” was meant to demonstrate technology but ended in embarrassment for Musk.
    4. Online reactions, particularly on Reddit, turned the event into a source of mockery, with users questioning Musk’s gaming abilities and suggesting his failures were pre-planned excuses.
    5. Many viewers remain skeptical about Musk’s explanations for his technical difficulties, with some believing he simply lacks gaming skill.

    Tech billionaire, master of PR, and self-claimed expert gamer – Elon Musk attempted to flaunt his skills in Path of Exile 2 during a 90-minute stream earlier this year. With a fully equipped character that he claimed to have leveled up himself, he embarked on a mission to demonstrate his deep knowledge of the game. However, fans were doubtful, and it didn’t take long for the reality to emerge: Musk had actually hired someone else to play on his behalf.

    A New Season, A New Challenge

    Musk made his comeback with the launch of the new Dawn of the Hunt season, intending to create a fresh hardcore character and play Path of Exile 2 live from an airplane using Starlink internet. The stream, named Starlink Airborne Continuity Test, was supposed to showcase technology but turned out to be more of an embarrassing display. Musk’s first character couldn’t even get past the second boss. His second attempt was even worse, as he was defeated by the tutorial boss just moments after starting. Following that, he experienced a sudden disconnection, which he attributed to Starlink problems, although many viewers were skeptical of his reasoning.

    Online Reactions and Mockery

    On Reddit, this entire situation has turned into a source of endless jokes. Musk is often ridiculed as a pretentious novice who confuses PR stunts with genuine talent. The stream’s title – Starlink Continuity Test – has been dissected with sarcastic enthusiasm. Numerous users feel it was a pre-planned excuse, a safety net in case things went awry. If he failed, he could simply blame the technology. Whether anyone truly believes that explanation is another matter. One comment captured the sentiment perfectly:

    “I doubt he actually lost his connection – he’s just not good.”

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  • Starlink Standard Dish Offer Extended: $149 in Select States

    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).

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    Starlink Standard Dish Offer Extended: $149 in Select StatesStarlink Standard Dish Offer Extended: $149 in Select States
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  • Starlink Launches Affordable Satellite Internet Plan for Casual Users

    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.

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    Starlink Launches Affordable Satellite Internet Plan for Casual Users

     

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  • Free Starlink Service for T-Mobile Users Seeking SpaceX Coverage

    Free Starlink Service for T-Mobile Users Seeking SpaceX Coverage

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile is offering a year of free Starlink satellite coverage to new customers who join the beta service.
    2. The Starlink service is currently available for free to all users but will cost $20 per month for Verizon and AT&T customers starting in July.
    3. Existing T-Mobile customers will need to pay $15 per month for the service after the beta period, except for those on the Go5G Next plan, who will continue to receive it for free.
    4. The current Starlink service only supports low-data activities like messaging and is compatible with select devices, primarily newer Apple models.
    5. Future plans include expanding device compatibility and adding features like video streaming, particularly for remote areas lacking cell coverage.

    T-Mobile is providing a complimentary Starlink satellite coverage offer in emails to subscribers who joined the beta service announced back in January.

    Launch of Starlink Coverage

    After SpaceX deployed its network of 330 Starlink satellites capable of direct-to-cell communication with standard cell phones on the ground, T-Mobile initiated its dead zone coverage service in beta mode.

    The Starlink satellite coverage is currently available for free to anyone, including Verizon and AT&T customers. However, starting in July, the service will cost $20 per month for them. To encourage users to make the switch, T-Mobile is promoting a year of free Starlink satellite service for new customers through an email that states:

    An exclusive offer for beta registrants. Switch to T‑Mobile today, and you’ll receive a free year of satellite coverage for every line you register in the beta. Up to 12 lines.

    Restrictions for Current Subscribers

    Sadly, the complimentary Starlink offer is not accessible to existing T-Mobile customers, who will need to start paying $15 per month for the service in July. Only those on T-Mobile’s Go5G Next plan will continue to enjoy free Starlink satellite coverage once it leaves beta.

    It’s unclear how many customers will switch from Verizon or AT&T solely for the free Starlink connectivity offer. The current direct-to-cell constellation supports low-data activities like messaging, image sharing, and podcast streaming. Elon Musk has mentioned that the second generation will also include video streaming capabilities, particularly in remote areas lacking cell towers and coverage.

    Current Limitations and Future Plans

    At this time, T-Mobile’s Starlink beta supports only messaging via satellite coverage and is compatible with “optimized” devices, including newer Apple models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

    Once the Starlink service transitions out of beta later this summer, the variety of supported devices is expected to grow. Customers switching from other carriers will also have the chance to enjoy a year of free satellite coverage for testing purposes.

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    Free Starlink Service for T-Mobile Users Seeking SpaceX Coverage
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  • Airtel Collaborates with SpaceX for Starlink Internet in India

    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.

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  • Starlink Standard Dish Now $149 in Select US States

    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.

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    Starlink Standard Dish Now $149 in Select US States

     

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  • Starlink Residential Lite: Affordable Unlimited Data Plan Now Live

    Starlink Residential Lite: Affordable Unlimited Data Plan Now Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Budget-Friendly Option: SpaceX has launched a new service plan called “Residential Lite” for $80 per month, which is $40 less than the standard Residential plan.

    2. Unlimited Deprioritized Data: The Residential Lite plan offers unlimited data but with lower network priority, meaning slower speeds may occur during peak times.

    3. Expected Speeds: Users can expect speeds ranging from 30Mbps to 100Mbps, suitable for smaller households with moderate internet needs.

    4. Availability: The Residential Lite plan is currently available in 15 select states across the US, and existing Residential plan users can downgrade easily.

    5. Usage Limitations: The plan is intended for personal and household use at a fixed address, with a fair usage policy still in effect.

    SpaceX has quietly rolled out a new budget-friendly Starlink service plan in the United States. This offering is called “Residential Lite,” and it comes with a price tag of $80 per month, providing users with unlimited deprioritized data. This plan is $40 less than the standard Residential plan, which costs $120 monthly.

    What to Expect from the Plan

    So, what’s the downside? Starlink indicates that the Residential Lite plan comes with lower network priority when compared to both the Residential and Priority service plans. This means customers who choose the Lite option might experience slower data speeds during peak times on Starlink’s network. However, the bright side is that there are no data limits, and Starlink assures users that there are no speed restrictions. The availability of the network is the only thing that will affect your data speeds. According to the information provided by Starlink, users on the Residential Lite plan can anticipate speeds ranging from 30Mbps to 100Mbps. This could be a good fit especially for smaller households that do not always need high-speed internet. Additionally, if your internet needs grow in the future, switching back to the standard Residential plan is simple and can be done at any time.

    Availability of the Plan

    Currently, the Residential Lite option is only available in 15 select states across the US.

    According to a Reddit user with the handle /u/jester_56, current Residential plan users in these states have the option to downgrade to the Lite plan. To make this change, simply access your Starlink account via the app or website, then go to “Manage Subscription” and select “Change Service Plan.” Keep in mind that the new plan will be active from your next billing period.

    Usage and Limitations

    The Residential Lite service is designed for personal and household usage at a fixed address. While it does offer unlimited data, it’s important to note that Starlink’s fair usage policy is still applicable.

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