Talks to license Starlink in South Africa have reportedly stalled over tensions with the Donald Trump administration in the US.
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After failing to show up on Wednesday, SpaceX has now formally “withdrawn its interest” in presenting to the regulator.
Starlink is already “sold out” in many African cities, including Nairobi, Lusaka and Harare.
Industry body ACT has told Icasa that the satellite licensing regime should not benefit some players over others.
Elon Musk has waded into South African politics just as SpaceX is seeking a licence to operate in the country.
T-Mobile and Elon Musk’s SpaceX are currently testing the Starlink cell network on a trial basis in the US.
SpaceX has told Icasa that it ought to rethink the rules requiring 30% shareholding by “historically disadvantaged” groups.
Resources giant Anglo American has conducted a trial of SpaceX’s satellite internet service, Starlink, in South Africa.
Direct-to-cell technology could transform the global telecoms landscape. However, the technology must first prove itself.
The global LEO satellite industry has advanced well into its initial market adoption phase. Specialisation is now needed.