SpaceX is beta-testing a new Starlink program that would allow hosts to share a single connection with nearby users, who can purchase internet access by the hour, day, week or month.
The program, called Starlink Communities, is being promoted through a new website recruiting people to become hosts. As PCMag reported, Starlink describes the concept as, “One Starlink Kit delivers high-speed internet to multiple users nearby.”
The Community Beta Interest Form is accepting applications from dozens of countries where Starlink is already available, including Canada.
Users would have four options – an Hour Pass, Day Pass, Week Pass or Month Pass. The hour, day and week options provide access for one device, while the month pass supports up to four devices.
Starlink handles much of the operation behind the scenes, including account creation, payments, connectivity and access controls. According to the company, “Starlink takes care of payments, user access, and connectivity.” Hosts are responsible for setting up the site, finding suitable placement, providing power and handling basic upkeep.
In return, hosts receive a share from each paid connection, although SpaceX has not said how much. Potential locations highlighted in coverage include apartment buildings, campgrounds, rural crossroads and event sites or venues. Campgrounds could make the program another way of expanding access alongside portable options such as Starlink Mini.
There are still several major details missing. SpaceX has not published pricing for any of the passes, the revenue split for hosts or a launch date.
A Community option isn’t entirely new. Earlier reports on a Starlink Community option emerged last year through a support page for authorized resellers and enterprise customers, when SpaceX described monthly passes through shared community access.
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