Moneycontrol PRO
HomeNewsTechnologyElon Musk’s SpaceX to block Starlink access for users in these regions:

Elon Musk’s SpaceX to block Starlink access for users in these regions:

The decision to shut Starlink services some regions has not gone down well with people in Africa, as they don’t have high-speed Internet.

April 18, 2024 / 20:21 IST
starlink internet

SpaceX, which designed its satellite network, to deliver low-cost internet to remote locations, has now decided to close this service in countries outside its availability zones. Many users in Africa, received emails this week regarding this intimation, particularly in regions like Zimbabwe and South Africa, where they are yet to receive regulatory approvals, as per a report by PCMag.

SpaceX shutting down Starlink in many countries: Details

The main highlight of the email sent to users was the statement “If you are operating your Starlink Kit in an area other than areas designated as 'Available' on the Starlink Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms.”

The Elon Musk-owned company also stated that they plan to shut down access for unofficial users by April 30. This would mean that users in these regions will be only able to access their Starlink account for updates, without any access to the satellite-based internet connection.

This information comes after Zimbabwe's government previously asked SpaceX to shut down all unauthorised Starlink servers in their country, until license approval. Starlink had also launched their “Starlink Roam” feature which provided Starlink’s internet access to worldwide travelers, according to the report.

However, the above-mentioned email also barred the use of this service temporarily in several regions of Africa. Many African users have expressed their disappointment regarding this news, especially on platforms like Reddit.

Further, SpaceX has also hinted that it could also stop services in other unofficial regions like Iran. But, officially the company has not informed about any such development, except in Africa.

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Sandip Chakraborty
first published: Apr 18, 2024 08:21 pm

Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

Subscribe to Tech Newsletters

  • On Saturdays

    Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.

  • Daily-Weekdays

    Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.

Advisory Alert: It has come to our attention that certain individuals are representing themselves as affiliates of Moneycontrol and soliciting funds on the false promise of assured returns on their investments. We wish to reiterate that Moneycontrol does not solicit funds from investors and neither does it promise any assured returns. In case you are approached by anyone making such claims, please write to us at grievanceofficer@nw18.com or call on 02268882347