SpaceX’s satellite internet company, Starlink, could soon be cheaper for some households to purchase. The provider said it plans to enter the Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program, or ACP.
This comes as SpaceX strives to build out its service’s offerings and reach more users. Musk’s internet endeavor has hit multiple snags and obstacles since it launched. Starlink has fallen short of its original predictions for revenue and operating profit as well as anticipated users, but the business is expected to see significant growth next year.
Joining the ACP could make the service accessible to more people.
“We are eligible for it, and we are planning on participating. We haven’t turned it on yet,” David Goldman, SpaceX’s vice president of satellite policy, said on a webcast sponsored by Broadband Breakfast.
The ACP provides a $30 monthly discount towards internet service for eligible households and a $75 monthly discount to households on qualifying tribal lands. The program also offers a one-time discount of up to $100 towards a computer, laptop or tablet purchase.
Starlink’s Unlimited Standard Data plan costs $120 a month plus a $599 hardware fee. The ACP’s $30 discount would drop the standard plan to $90 a month, or $45 a month for households on the eligible tribal lands.
The ACP, which as of August supports 20 million U.S. households, is also due to run out of money in April unless Congress intervenes. Without the aid, millions of Americans may no longer be able to afford broadband, which is essentially vital in today’s digital world.
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