SpaceX has announced a new retail program for Starlink hardware, enabling US retailers to sell satellite internet dishes (Starlink) in exchange for commission. In other words, this brings a shift from the traditional direct to consumer model to a brick and mortar model for Starlink. This is important as it allows consumers to buy the hardware from local retailers rather than the online order model.
SpaceX partners with US retailers to sell Starlink V4 and Mini dishes
Specifically, this is aimed towards convenience stores, hardware stores, and sporting goods. The change broadens the locations where the service can be bought.
Specifications
- Retail Program Availability: US businesses only
- Starlink V4 Target Use: Home use such as streaming and video calls
- Starlink Mini Price: About $300
- Retailer Support: Starlink provides in-store display
Specifically, the new retail program is aimed at 2 pieces of hardware. This includes the Starlink V4 hardware and the Starlink Mini hardware. The Starlink V4 is intended for home usage.
It is ideal for streaming, video calls, and more. Starlink Mini is aimed for portable usages. It is more compact and ideal for those looking for portability and connection.
Starlink maintains control of the connectivity, customer service, payment, and user account. Thus, the retail partners will be focused on simply selling the hardware itself.
Starlink will offer in-store displays for the retailers. Having in-store displays enables the retailer to display the hardware easily without having to worry about complex configurations. At this time, the retail program is only available for retailers in the US.
So, internationally consumers will not be able to purchase Starlink hardware from the retailer stores at this time. The retailer commission and minimum order quantities aren't publicly listed and could be on a case-by-case basis.
At this time, Starlink Mini is available on Amazon. It costs around $300 for the hardware. Thus, it is a baseline of the cost of hardware.
At the moment, Starlink Mini is available online. However, this new retail program will expand to include similar portable and home hardware. The goal is to make the hardware more accessible to consumers who prefer to purchase hardware from physical stores.
At this time, it is only for the US. However, this could potentially be expanded to other regions in the future.
Source: NotebookCheck
Physical stores now selling satellite dishes. The brick and mortar model is finally here for Starlink hardware.
Does the in store display actually help with the alignment issue or is it just a shelf prop for people who want to buy on impulse like the Mini.
It is a prop. The Mini is plug and play. The V4 needs careful alignment. The store staff will not fix your dish. You still have to deal with the app setup.
I just want to know if I can grab a Mini at my local hardware store next weekend or if this is going to be a slow rollout over months.