SpaceX satellites are already in space to provide internet services in different countries. However, they are faced with one challenge: government approval.
Even in a country like the Philippines, where the government is already expediting Starlink‘s entry, the service’s rollout is still really slow.
Now, it looks like the Elon Musk-owned company might have found a loophole as it launched the Starlink Global Roaming service, which is being offered to select clients already on the waitlist.
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The offer has been sent to users even in countries where Starlink is yet to be officially available due to government approvals. It costs USD200 per month (~Php11,000) with the standard upfront fee of USD599 (~Php33,000) for the starter kit that includes the satellite dish.
However, the invite said that users can expect “Starlink’s typical high speed, low-latency service intermixed with brief periods of poor connectivity, or none at all,” but added that the service will “improve dramatically over time.”
The invite also noted that “If required, Global Roaming services are contingent on regulatory approvals.”
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It also said that those living outside of the United States that are planning to get it will need to act as the Importer of Record for the starter kit, which could include paying for customs duties and import taxes.
Source: PCMag