SpaceX is preparing to expand its Starlink satellite internet service with two new, noticeably slimmer dish antennas that appear designed for easy travel. These new models, shown alongside Elon Musk during a recent video interview, are reportedly produced in much higher volumes than current dishes and could fit comfortably in a backpack.
Though specific pricing and release dates remain undisclosed, these updated terminals are expected to offer improved portability without sacrificing performance. Observers have previously identified traces of these models—referred to as "rev5" and a rugged version of the Mini dish—in recent Starlink firmware updates, suggesting imminent deployment.
The “rev5” dish likely succeeds the standard Starlink terminal launched late in 2023, while the rugged Mini features anticipated enhancements like a built-in battery and USB-C connectivity. This aligns with SpaceX’s goals to boost adoption as it moves toward a planned initial public offering (IPO), aiming to capitalize on expanding demand. Starlink recently surpassed twelve million active users, with quarterly reports showing paid subscriber growth doubling year-over-year despite a dip in average revenue per customer.
The recent video also highlighted SpaceX’s parallel development of “AI satellites.” These newer satellites are simpler in design compared to traditional Starlink units, focusing on extensive solar arrays and radiators rather than complex phased array and parabolic antennas. Musk emphasized the reduced technical complexity and addressed concerns about orbital congestion due to SpaceX’s application to deploy up to one million AI satellites.
By introducing these streamlined dishes and advancing AI satellite technology, SpaceX signals its intention to strengthen its satellite internet infrastructure and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving space-based connectivity market.