SpaceX’s Starlink app to enter public beta

With 800 satellites already in orbit, SpaceX has begun testing the beta app for its official Starlink broadband internet service.

Part of the "Better Than Nothing Beta Program," the initial public rollout of the app across the U.S. and Canada will begin soon, according to emails SpaceX sent to potential beta testers this week.

The Starlink app allows users to manage their connection, on how to install the Starlink receiver dish, as connection status, a device overview for seeing what's connected to the user's network as well as a speed test tool. The app will be available on both iOS and Android devices.

SpaceX is hoping to set expectations with these early tests, with expected speeds ranging from 50Mb/s to 150Mb/s, and latency of 20ms to 40ms. In terms of pricing, the emails say the cost for participants will be $99 per month, plus a one-time cost of $499 to pay for the hardware, which includes the mounting kit and receiver dish, as well as a router with WiFi networking capabilities.