#Starlink SpaceX for Manila

Manila Mayor Isko is in talks with representatives of Starlink, a satellite broadband internet system owned by Elon Musk, in order to provide internet via low-earth orbit satellites (LEOSATs). SpaceX has begun selling the Starlink Mini in select areas. The Starlink Mini is priced at USD 599 (~PHP 35,000), according to the emails SpaceX have sent out. This is because SpaceX can only tack on the Mini Roam service for an additional fee of USD 30 (~PHP 1,800) per month. SpaceX noted that they’re working to make Starlink more affordable. SpaceX successfully launched six Starlink satellites equipped to provide mobile coverage directly to conventional smartphones, a service aimed at enhancing global connectivity and eradicating areas with no network coverage. [caption id="attachment_348920" align="alignnone" width="720"] Starlink Direct to Cell[/caption] The first users to benefit from the direct-to-device Starlink services for worldwide connectivity include T-Mobile US, Rogers Communications in Canada, Optus in Australia, KDDI in Japan, One New Zealand, Salt Mobile in Switzerland, and Entel Chile. [caption id="attachment_348921" align="alignnone" width="720"] Starlink Direct to Cell[/caption] The direct-to-phone technology eliminates the need for ground stations to facilitate connectivity, although its current coverage is more restricted compared to standard non-terrestrial network coverage. Read more in our articles including "Mayor Isko to purchase 1,000 Starlink dishes for Manila" and "SpaceX selling the Starlink Mini in select areas".