With the addition of a new Portability feature, Starlink’s internet-from-SpaceX service has gone mobile. Starlink users can now transport their “dishy” anyplace in their own continent that has active internet connectivity for an extra monthly charge.
This opens up connectivity to regions where 5G is unlikely to reach, potentially benefiting the growing number of work-from-anywhere types created by the COVID 19 pandemic.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk responded to one happy Starlink camper saying, “Starlink is awesome for RV’s, camping or any activity away from cities.”
While Starlink does not now support use while driving, the business claims to be working on a solution for moving cars. Musk has previously stated that he is working on a low-power solution that can be plugged into a car’s 12V cigarette lighter while maintaining connectivity.
That hasn’t stopped some owners from testing Starlink on speeding automobiles with varying degrees of success.
When boondocking and living off the batteries of your vehicle, power usage is critical. Starlink pulls 60-70W, which is an improvement above the 80-100W draw of a year ago.
Portability is offered on a “best effort” basis, according to Starlink, with users at their registered service addresses getting first access to network resources.
“When you bring your Starlink to a new location, this prioritization may result in degraded service, particularly during high usage or network congestion,” the Starlink support page advises.
To read our blog on “Vodafone and Google Cloud are attempting to spice up Europe’s 5G net,” click here
