Pre-Orders For Elon Musk’s Satellite-Based Internet Starts! Threat To Jio, Airtel? India Launch?

After entering into the automobile and space sector, the world’s richest man, Elon Musk, is now considering stepping into the telecom sector to provide internet services.

Starlink Satellite Broadband Services

Now, Musk’s SpaceX is extending the testing phase of the Starlink satellite broadband service.

Not only that, it has also started with accepting pre-orders from anyone who may want to get access. 

So far, it is the second push for the Starlink satellite internet service as the previous public beta testing invites were sent out in October last year to sign up for the service. 

According to this opperchunity, the interested individuals can register for the preorder now for $99 in coverage areas. 

How To Get These Services?

Currently, these services are being offered in the US, Canada and the UK. 

But now no need to be disappointed as Starlink mentioned that the satellite internet service will see near global coverage sometime this year. 

Although, there is no confirmation of India, but reportedly SpaceX has already submitted its recommendations to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) last year, for a considered push for satellite broadband in the country.

How Much Speed Is Expected?

While talking about the services, Starlink says that the users will get broadband speeds between 50Mbps and 150Mbps with the latency expected between 20ms and 40ms, depending on location during the beta testing phase. 

Although, it is work in progress and connectivity will improve in the coming months as confirmed by the company. 

Starlink said, “As we launch more satellites, install more ground stations and improve our networking software, data speed, latency and uptime will improve dramatically,”.

 SpaceX launched 60 Starlink satellites to orbit in January. Another 60 are planned for February, adding to the constellation already deployed.

What About Installations?

Usually, a Starlink kit gets you a phased-arrayed satellite dish, a tripod and a Wi-Fi router. 

For installation, you can download the Starlink app for iPhone and Android phones to determine the best install location at your home or office. 

Basically, SpaceX intends to provide high speed internet connectivity from the Starlink constellation of satellites. 

In India, a satellite internet system could definitely help in providing connectivity to the regions where wired broadband still remains unavailable, or at best offers inconsistent coverage due to distance or terrain.

Its India launch will be a matter of concern for the likes of BSNL, Airtel and Reliance Jio as these three companies dominate the mobile Internet and broadband space.