Starlink introduces Kit rentals

Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by billionaire Elon Musk, is set to make a significant shift in Kenya's internet landscape by introducing a rental option for its previously costly hardware kits. This move is expected to greatly enhance accessibility for Kenyans, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

Starting soon, Starlink customers in Kenya will be able to rent the internet hardware kit for a monthly fee of KSh 1,950, following a one-time activation fee of KSh 2,700. Subscribers will also be required to pay a monthly service plan fee of KSh 1,300, offering continuous internet access without the pressure of a time-limited contract.

This new rental option comes after a challenging entry into the Kenyan market last year, where the high cost of Starlink’s hardware kit—initially priced at KSh 89,000—hindered widespread adoption. Although the company attempted to lower the barrier with limited-time offers, including a recent discount that brought the kit price down to KSh 45,500, many potential customers still found the cost prohibitive.

By introducing a rental model, Starlink aims to overcome these financial barriers, potentially transforming internet access for countless Kenyans. The ability to rent rather than purchase the hardware outright makes Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet a more viable option for the average consumer, especially in areas where traditional broadband services are either unreliable or non-existent.

This strategic shift could mark a turning point for Starlink in Kenya, opening up new opportunities for connectivity in both rural and urban areas, and positioning the company as a key player in the country’s digital future.