SpaceX to keep Starlink pricing simple, exit beta when network is “reliable”

The Starlink broadband network will probably stick with one price instead of offering different tiers of service, said SpaceX president and COO Gwynne Shotwell. SpaceX has been charging $99 a month for the Starlink beta service, plus $499 upfront for the user terminal/satellite dish, mounting tripod, and router. Even if SpaceX has just one price for most customers, it will probably offer a cheaper plan to people with low incomes. SpaceX is seeking an "Eligible Telecommunications Carrier" designation that would let it get reimbursement from the FCC's Lifeline program for offering discounts on telecom service to people with low incomes. In its application, SpaceX told the FCC that it "will provide Lifeline to qualifying low-income consumers and publicize the availability of Lifeline service in a manner reasonably designed to reach those likely to qualify for the service."

In Feb, SpaceX opened preorders for Starlink service, with limited slots in each geographic region to become available in the second half of 2021. Shotwell said SpaceX still has plenty of work to do before moving from beta to general availability.