02-25-2025, 08:57 AM
SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service has seen rapid growth, doubling its global subscriber base in 2024 to 4.6 million users by year-end. In the U.S., Starlink has about 1.4 million subscribers, primarily serving rural areas where internet access is limited.
However, concerns about Starlink’s ability to keep up with demand are growing. The FCC defines broadband speeds as 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload, a threshold Starlink has yet to consistently meet in the U.S. According to Ookla’s 2023 data, Starlink users experience an average of 65Mbps download and 10Mbps upload speeds, with 58 milliseconds of latency.
Despite its expansion, Starlink has implemented waitlists and a congestion fee in high-usage U.S. cities. The FCC previously denied Starlink nearly $900 million in broadband grants due to its failure to meet speed benchmarks, though FCC Chair Brendan Carr has hinted at reconsidering its inclusion in federal broadband programs.
While Starlink continues to be a crucial option for underserved areas, its ability to maintain speed and service quality amid rapid growth remains a pressing issue.
Starlink Doubled Its Subscriber Base in One Year. But Can It Keep Up With Users' Needs? - CNET
However, concerns about Starlink’s ability to keep up with demand are growing. The FCC defines broadband speeds as 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload, a threshold Starlink has yet to consistently meet in the U.S. According to Ookla’s 2023 data, Starlink users experience an average of 65Mbps download and 10Mbps upload speeds, with 58 milliseconds of latency.
Despite its expansion, Starlink has implemented waitlists and a congestion fee in high-usage U.S. cities. The FCC previously denied Starlink nearly $900 million in broadband grants due to its failure to meet speed benchmarks, though FCC Chair Brendan Carr has hinted at reconsidering its inclusion in federal broadband programs.
While Starlink continues to be a crucial option for underserved areas, its ability to maintain speed and service quality amid rapid growth remains a pressing issue.
Starlink Doubled Its Subscriber Base in One Year. But Can It Keep Up With Users' Needs? - CNET