Telstra, a telecommunications company, has announced its plans to offer broadband and voice services to rural and remote customers using Starlink’s satellite technology. According to Telstra’s CEO, Vicki Brady, this agreement makes Telstra the first provider in the world to offer such services, catering to both consumer and business customers.
Telstra has been conducting tests and trials of low earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology in preparation for this collaboration. Currently, Telstra utilizes a combination of technologies including NBN fixed wireless, their mobile network, and older copper and radio networks to provide voice and broadband services in rural and remote areas of Australia. Starlink’s satellite connectivity will serve as an additional option for customers located in regions that are challenging to reach due to distance and terrain.
Telstra aims to differentiate its offering by providing a professional installation option and local assistance for setup, which are not currently available to Starlink customers who primarily deal directly with the company or arrange for their own installations. Pricing and device details for the Telstra-Starlink services will be announced closer to the anticipated launch date, which is expected to be in late 2023.