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.
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