Elon Musk’s Starlink has achieved another major milestone toward launching its services in India. SpaceX’s satellite-based internet service, Starlink, has received the necessary license to operate in the country. With this license in hand, the company is now officially allowed to begin offering its services in India.
When Will Starlink Launch in India?
While an exact launch date hasn’t been announced, it is expected to happen soon. With the license approved, the rollout is now just a matter of time. The big question is—what changes will Starlink bring to India’s internet landscape?
What Will Starlink Change?
It’s not just about Starlink—it’s about introducing satellite internet in India. Currently, satellite-based internet isn’t available in the country. With Starlink’s entry, other major players like Jio and Airtel are also expected to join the race. The arrival of an international player like Starlink is likely to increase competition and improve service quality for consumers.
However, satellite internet services—whether from Starlink or others—are expected to be more expensive than traditional broadband.
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The Benefits of Starlink
Starlink is a satellite-based internet service that can provide connectivity in remote and hard-to-reach areas where laying fiber optic cables or setting up mobile towers is either difficult or impossible. It aims to bring internet access to underserved regions using satellite signals.
Recently, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia referred to Starlink as “a new flower in the bouquet of telecommunications.” He pointed out that while fixed-line connections were once the only option, today we have broadband and mobile connectivity. Still, satellite connectivity is essential for remote areas where other options don’t work.
How Much Will Starlink Cost?
According to reports, Starlink is expected to begin its services in urban areas where infrastructure can be more easily set up and tested. The company plans to launch in a phased manner, with services initially available to a limited number of users.
Although there’s no official information on pricing, some reports suggest that Starlink may introduce a promotional offer. The company might launch a monthly plan priced at $10 (around ₹850) in India. This offer may be temporary or available only during the early stages.
To use Starlink’s service, users will also need to purchase a hardware kit. In the U.S., the residential “Lite” plan starts at $80 (around ₹6,862). In India, the standard Starlink hardware kit may be priced at approximately ₹30,000.
In summary, Starlink’s arrival could revolutionize internet access in India, especially in remote regions. While the costs may be higher than traditional broadband, the potential for expanded connectivity and improved services is promising.