The FCC has approved SpaceX’s application to operate two new Starlink dishes, including a smaller, more portable model.
The agency on Tuesday cleared SpaceX’s application for the new hardware, which will allow the company to operate the equipment across the US.
The first device is smaller than SpaceX’s first-generation Starlink dish. The company’s original application for the hardware revealed it’ll measure 0.29 meters (11.4 inches) by 0.25 meters (9.8 inches), making it about the size of an Apple MacBook. The current $599 Starlink dish for consumers measures 20.2 by 11.9 inches for a more rectangular package.
SpaceX also suggests the new dish will be portable. The company’s application notes the hardware will “allow consumers to enjoy the benefits of high-speed, low-latency broadband wherever they live or work, including in rural and remote areas where mobile or portable applications are necessary.”
The second dish promises to offer “a high performance solution for consumers that improves upon SpaceX Services’ previously authorized fixed user terminal models.” It’s supposed to measure at 0.57 meters (22.4 inches) by 0.36 meters (14.7 inches), making it smaller than the current high-performance dish from SpaceX.
Both hardware models can also communicate with first- and second-generation Starlink satellites. SpaceX’s original application to the FCC doesn’t reveal much else, such as price or potential speed improvements. But the document notes: “This new generation of user terminals will provide even more benefits to American consumers that only strengthen the public interest in granting SpaceX Services’ request.”
The FCC approval only covers SpaceX’s application for the “fixed” or stationary use of the Starlink hardware. Back in February, the company also filed for clearance to operate the same Starlink dishes, but on cars, planes, and boats. However, the FCC has yet to issue a ruling amid pushback from Dish Network over interference concerns.
SpaceX didn't say when it will begin selling the new hardware. The company didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. But it could be soon. Back in July, SpaceX began offering select Starlink subscribers the option to buy a new Starlink “Gen 3” Wi-Fi router, a mere week after the company received FCC approval to sell it.