SpaceX has struck a deal with US home internet service provider Comcast to provide Starlink access to the ISP's commercial customers.
The strategic partnership includes the Comcast Business, which currently has approximately 2.6 million commercial broadband customers.
Comcast's Enterprise Services segment operates more than 900,000 miles of fiber-optic networks and has chosen to leverage Starlink's orbiting satellites to provide high-speed Internet access to business customers in areas where network access is limited.
Comcast Business Services noted that some customers may experience connectivity issues, especially in areas without access to high-speed fiber optic networks.
“Starlink's LEO satellite technology complements our existing network infrastructure, expands our coverage and improves our ability to provide reliable connectivity solutions to businesses,” said John Friedman, senior vice president, Comcast Enterprise Services.
This is the first agreement of its kind between a network operator and a satellite network to provide satellite connectivity to enterprise customers and the first time SpaceX has partnered with a major U.S. ISP.
In addition to Comcast's business services arm, SpaceX is working with T-Mobile to launch Starlink cellular service in areas without cell coverage.
Jason Fritsche, SpaceX vice president, said the partnership underscores how Starlink can bridge the broadband access gap.
“This agreement with a leading service provider recognizes the growing role Starlink plays as a key component of modern enterprise networks,” Fritsche added.
The companies didn't provide further details, so it's not clear how the partnership will work, but SpaceX will likely provide high-performance Starlink antennas to Comcast Enterprise Services customers to help them access satellite internet in remote and rural areas.
Another solution is for SpaceX to create large community gateway facilities to provide satellite Internet access to some Comcast Enterprise Services customers.
This step strengthens Starlink's leadership position in satellite communications networks compared to its competitors such as Amazon and Viasat.
The Elon Musk-led rocket manufacturer operates a massive fleet of communications satellites, providing Internet connectivity to individuals and businesses in areas where Internet access is limited or nonexistent.