Starlink will soon launch its satellite internet service in India, priced between ₹3,000–₹4,200, with speeds ranging from 25–220 Mbps. The service will be specifically focused on rural areas.
Starlink: SpaceX's satellite internet service, Starlink, is now fully prepared to enter India. This service has the potential to revolutionize areas where internet access is limited or of extremely poor quality. Recent reports from PTI and statements from the Telecom Ministry have revealed crucial details regarding the launch of Starlink in India.
How much will it cost?
The monthly subscription cost for Starlink will range from ₹3,000 to ₹4,200. This amount may vary depending on the user's location and data usage. Additionally, to begin using the service, users will need to purchase a hardware kit (including a dish and router), which is estimated to cost ₹33,000. The company may also offer a pre-booking option initially, where interested customers can book a connection by making an advance payment.
What speeds will be available?
Starlink will provide users in India with internet speeds ranging from 25 Mbps to 220 Mbps. This speed could prove to be a boon for rural India, where people still rely on limited speeds of 5 to 10 Mbps. Furthermore, the company is planning to launch next-generation satellites in the future, each with a capacity of over 1,000 Gbps. These satellites could launch from 2026 and have the capability to increase existing speeds by up to 10 times.
Connection will be limited to 2 million users
In India, Starlink's services will initially be limited to a maximum of 2 million users. This is primarily due to network capacity and SpaceX's strategic rollout plan. The company's focus will be on rural and remote areas, rather than urban areas, where traditional broadband service is unavailable.
When could it launch?
Starlink has not yet announced an official launch date in India, but according to reports, the service could be launched by the end of 2025. A pre-booking window may also be opened soon, where interested users will have to reserve their connection by making an advance payment. The pre-booking process will likely be possible through the Starlink website and authorized retail channels.
Partnership with Airtel and Jio
Interestingly, Starlink will not directly compete with existing telecom operators such as Jio, Airtel, and BSNL. Instead, these companies are involved in infrastructure-sharing agreements with Starlink to facilitate hardware delivery and service installation. Starlink's aim is not to challenge the b networks present in urban areas, but to provide services in areas where internet access is unavailable.
Next-generation satellites to increase speed by 10 times
Starlink is not only preparing for launch but is also focusing on technology upgrades in the coming years. According to reports, the company is planning to launch its next-generation LEO satellites from 2026, with each unit having a capacity of over 1,000 Gbps. This means that in the future, Starlink's internet speed could be 10 times higher than the current level, meaning high-speed internet will no longer be limited to cities.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Starlink could prove to be a game-changer for rural India, there are some challenges that may arise:
- Electricity Instability: Electricity is required to run the dish and router, which is not regularly available in many rural areas.
- Price Barrier: The initial cost of ₹33,000 and a monthly fee of ₹3,000+ does not fit into the budget of every family.
However, if the government implements subsidies or rural schemes, this service could become a new beginning for the digital lives of millions of people.
