Starlink launches rental option with a one-time activation fee and monthly payment, eliminating the need to purchase Elon Musk’s internet kit
Starlink has launched a rental model for its satellite internet kit, allowing access to the service without an initial purchase. The proposal aims to expand the network’s reach and attract users who want to avoid high investments in equipment.
Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, has begun offering a new way to access its service in some countries: installation kit rentalwhich includes antenna, router and cables.
The initiative allows new users to use the company’s high-speed internet without having to purchase the equipment, by one-time activation fee e monthly fee for using the kit.
According to information from the company itself, the measure seeks to broaden access to the service and cater to people who prefer to avoid the higher initial investment required to purchase the hardware.
How does Starlink rental work?
In the new model, the customer You don’t need to buy the kit..
The user pays an activation fee, followed by a monthly charge for using the equipment, in addition to the cost of the internet plan subscription.
Therefore, it is possible to use the service without immediately purchasing the materials.
The option appears during the ordering process on the Starlink website, next to the purchase option.
The company states that the rental price depends on… Availability in the country and at the address provided.…and that not all regions have this option at the moment.
Who can rent the kit?
According to Starlink, the rental model is only available to those Fixed residential and commercial plans, identified as Standard and Priority, respectively.
The company clarifies that the option It is not available for land or sea mobility services., such as motorhomes and boats.
Each household account can only have a rented kit, in accordance with the usage policy published by the company.
Availability and verification by address
A Rental availability varies by region..
During the purchase process, the Starlink system automatically verifies if the address provided is eligible to receive the service.
If the “rent” option does not appear, the service is not yet available at that location.
The company claims that it comes gradually expanding the offer rental in markets where there is higher demand or where the cost of entry has been an obstacle to attracting new subscribers.
How to request the service
To contract the service, the interested party must confirm the address where you intend to use the internet and choose the most suitable type of plan.
Next, you should:
- Access the Starlink website.
- Select the type of use — residential or fixed commercial.
- Enter the installation address.
- Click on “Order now”.
If the rental is available, the system will display the options. purchase or rental of the kit, and the user will be able to complete the order.
Billing and start of monthly payment
Starlink charges a fee. one-time activation fee at the time of ordering.
After receiving the kit and activating the service, the countdown begins. monthly rentwhich will always be charged on the same date.
If the customer Do not activate the service within 30 days. After the kit is shipped, monthly billing will begin automatically.
According to the company, this measure prevents equipment from remaining inactive for extended periods.
How to purchase the kit after renting
Users who initially opted for renting and wish to acquire the equipment They can request the purchase directly from Starlink.
The procedure is carried out through the company’s support team, which guides the client on the costs and conditions for converting the rental into a purchase.
This possibility, according to analysts in the telecommunications sector, It allows you to test the service before investing in the equipment.This is considered strategic in locations where network performance is still being evaluated.
Advantages and limitations
Experts point out that the rental model can reduce barriers to entry For users who don’t want to invest in the complete kit right away.
This modality also transfers to the company the responsibility for the maintenance or replacement of the equipment.
However, industry professionals note that the total cost may be higher over time if the user maintains the service for several years, making the purchase more advantageous in some scenarios.
Starlink has stated that its goal is to offer consumers more flexibility and expand the reach of the network in regions that still face connectivity difficulties.
The company did not disclose a timeline for expanding the rental model to all countries in Latin America.
Satellite internet is expanding.
Starlink operates with a constellation of thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit, which allows internet coverage in remote areas or with limited infrastructure.
The service has been used in rural areas, isolated communities, and hard-to-reach locations.
According to publicly available company data, expanding the customer base and offering new contract formats are part of the strategy for… consolidate Starlink’s global presence.
Experts believe that renting can help to to popularize technology and accelerate the growth of the satellite internet market.
link
