Starlink adds new out-of-region fees to combat unauthorized users
Starlink, the satellite internet network developed by SpaceX, has implemented a new out-of-region fee for users who activate a Starlink device outside of the country where it was originally ordered. If you purchase a Starlink kit and then attempt to activate it outside of the region where you purchased it, you will be charged between $200 and $300, depending on which kit you purchased. The standard kit has a $200 activation fee, while the Starlink Mini has a $300 activation fee.
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Starlink has long fought against resellers who purchase Starlink kits in supported countries, import them to unsupported countries, and sell them there. In some cases, resellers activate the product before sale and act as a middleman to help customers pay their monthly premiums. Such kits are also subject to out-of-region fees.
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To avoid the fee, users must activate Starlink in the same region where they ordered it.
Fee is the latest in Starlink’s battle with resellers
There is a a kind of global black market for Starlink devices. One reason for this is Starlink’s coverage, which covers almost the entire world. The company has already launched more than 6,000 satellites into orbit, with more to come. This helps people get internet in places where traditional ISPs can’t reach.
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Local governments and laws prevent Starlink from being supported everywhere. Starlink use is still prohibited in some areas until deals can be made between Starlink and each region’s government. But that hasn’t stopped people from those unsupported regions from getting Starlink.
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Starlink is trying to get regulatory approval to operate in as many countries as possible. Earlier this year, SpaceX threatened to cut off Starlink access in unapproved areas and Mobile Regional roaming customers who have been outside their perceived home region for more than two months. Starlink has also experimented with the idea of removing its Mobile Global subscription.
