SpaceX has launched the Starlink Mini, a compact iteration of its satellite internet system designed for enhanced portability and affordability. Priced at $599, this new device is notably more compact than its predecessor, fitting easily into a backpack and weighing approximately 2.5 pounds with its kickstand, making it about 40% lighter than the standard Starlink dish.
The Starlink Mini is intended to cater to both existing customers and new users in remote areas where traditional connectivity solutions are either too expensive or unavailable. For an additional $30 monthly fee, early adopters can integrate the Mini Roam service with their current subscription, although this service has a data cap of 50 gigabytes per month.
Despite the higher price tag compared to the standard kit, SpaceX is exploring ways to reduce costs in the future. The service boasts impressive maximum download speeds exceeding 100 Mbps. According to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, the Mini also serves as an economical backup internet solution, potentially beneficial for travelers or in areas with unreliable landline connections.
The initial batch of Starlink Minis is expected to be delivered in July, aligning with the company’s broader mission to enhance global connectivity via its network of over 6,000 satellites. Currently, Starlink services more than 3 million customers across 100 countries.
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