Pakistan is on the cusp of a major internet revolution as Elon Musk’s satellite-based broadband service, Starlink, is to launch in the country by June 2025. With 90% of negotiations finalised between Starlink and Pakistan’s regulatory bodies, the final licensing steps are expected to be completed soon.
A Game-Changer for Connectivity
For years, Pakistan has struggled with poor internet infrastructure, especially in rural areas where fibre-optic networks are either unavailable or unreliable. Starlink’s satellite-based technology promises to bridge this gap by providing high-speed internet access nationwide, regardless of the terrain.
The launch comes as frustration over slow internet speeds and connectivity issues intensifies. The parliamentary committee has criticised the PTA for failure to regulate the telecom companies. Some areas of Lahore are reported to have no internet connectivity even within 40 kilometres. The arrival of Starlink is said to challenge existing providers and upgrade the overall internet quality.
Approximate Pricing and Packages
Although Starlink has not officially confirmed the pricing for Pakistan, estimates based on global trends are as follows:
Residential Package: 50-250 Mbps, PKR 35,000 per month with one-time hardware fee at PKR 110,000.
Business Package: 100-500 Mbps, PKR 95,000 per month, with PKR 220,000 hardware cost.
Mobility Package: 50-250 Mbps, PKR 50,000 per month, with PKR 120,000 hardware cost.
However, these high prices compared to legacy broadband are for users in remote areas where conventional internet services are unreliable or even non-existent.
Read More: Starlink’s Registration in Pakistan Linked to Elon Musk’s Apology
Data Security
Despite the excitement, there have been many concerns on data security. Some policymakers make it clear that user data protection is a pressing concern and should be implemented as early as possible to the Personal Data Protection Bill of Pakistan, although such strict encryption at the global operation of Starlink can eliminate certain fears.
How to subscribe
Users can subscribe to Starlink by simply:
- Visiting the Starlink website and searching for their place.
2. Paying deposit, which they will get after subscribing.
3. Receiving and installing the Starlink Kit, which comprises of a dish, Wi-Fi router and mounting tripod.
4. Connecting the system by the Starlink app for Internet access.
With Starlink arriving soon, Pakistan will go through a transformative change in internet access. Only time will tell if it will live up to expectations, but one thing is for sure: the telecom sector is going to heat up.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates