In a quiet but significant move, SpaceX has introduced a new initiative called Starlink Community that could make satellite internet access more affordable by allowing multiple subscribers to share a single Starlink dish terminal.
According to a support page posted for authorized resellers and enterprise clients, the new model allows “one Starlink, multiple subscribers—each with their own Starlink account and seamless experience.”
While SpaceX has not publicly announced the launch, the details appeared on Starlink.com, where a placeholder page for the “Community” plan shows a monthly price of $60, making it substantially cheaper than the current Residential Lite ($80) and Standard Residential ($120) plans.
The program is designed to expand high-speed internet availability, particularly in communities where affordability and infrastructure are key challenges. It appears geared towards multi-unit dwellings, such as apartment complexes or rural communities, where a single Starlink terminal can serve multiple users.
How it works
Unlike the traditional Starlink service—where one subscriber uses one dish—the Community model will enable multiple subscribers to connect through their own Wi-Fi routers to a single shared dish and network switch.
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The Community offering also includes a “Community Hotspot” variant, which will reportedly offer short-term connectivity for a single device, though details remain sparse.
Global rollout expected first
The program was initially spotted by Jianping Pan, a professor at the University of Victoria in Canada, who specializes in satellite internet systems. He speculates that the service may be first launched outside the U.S. and Canada, where Starlink is seeking to expand user bases by lowering prices in developing or underserved regions.
In May, SpaceX had sent emails—some in Portuguese—to international resellers and installers hinting at the Community program. Support pages indicate SpaceX will rely heavily on these local resellers to deploy, onboard, and maintain Community sites.
“We look forward to working with you to help bring affordable, high-speed internet to your community and earn commission for each subscriber,” one reseller support page states.
Still in development
While the concept promises affordability and accessibility, the support documentation does not specify potential drawbacks, such as reduced bandwidth when multiple users share a dish. The performance impact on each user remains unclear.
SpaceX has yet to officially comment on the program or provide a firm launch date. The webpage remains inactive as of now, and public announcements are pending.
Nevertheless, the Starlink Community initiative could mark a turning point in satellite internet, especially in areas lacking traditional broadband infrastructure.
