📡 Internet everywhere – Starlink Mini – a backpack-sized satellite dish coming this year

• Elon Musk announces the upcoming launch of Starlink Mini, a backpack-sized satellite dish.
• The new Starlink Standard dish and Mini promise enhanced portability and efficiency.
• Starlink aims to provide high-speed internet to remote areas.

SpaceX gears up for Starlink Mini launch

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has announced the introduction of a new, more portable version of the Starlink dish, dubbed the Starlink Mini. Set to be released later this year, this device is designed to be small enough to fit into a backpack, making it an ideal solution for those requiring internet connectivity in remote locations.

According to recent FCC filings, the dimensions of the Starlink Mini are approximately 10″ x 12″, about the size of a laptop. This makes the Mini about half the size of the current Starlink Standard dish.

The compact size of the Starlink Mini is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts like hikers and campers, or anyone in need of portable internet access.

Advancements in Starlink technology

In addition to the Mini, Musk mentioned the company’s next-generation “standard” Starlink dish, which began rolling out in November. Priced at $599, the cost of production for the new Standard dish is reportedly lower than its predecessor, contributing to SpaceX's goal of reducing expenses. Users have reported that the new dish delivers more consistent higher download speeds and better upload rates.

Cellular version of Starlink

SpaceX is also working on a cellular version of Starlink, aiming to provide internet access to the most remote regions. The system is designed to supply about 7Mbps per cell, covering hundreds of square miles. The cellular service, expected to launch through T-Mobile for text messaging this year, is pending FCC approval for commercial operation in the US.

Another key goal for Starlink is to decrease system latency to under 20 milliseconds. To achieve this, SpaceX is building more gateway stations connected to fiber networks, facilitating faster internet speeds to orbiting Starlink satellites.

Musk’s vision for Starlink includes providing high-speed, low-latency broadband internet to rural and underserved areas worldwide.

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