Home / Business and Economy / BT Delays Starlink Launch Amid Service Controversy
BT Delays Starlink Launch Amid Service Controversy
10 Nov
Summary
- BT's Starlink partnership launch is postponed due to recent service disruptions.
- CEO Allison Kirkby cited 'noise' over Ukraine military communication failures.
- The launch will proceed once public perception of Starlink improves.
BT's anticipated partnership with Elon Musk's Starlink will not proceed immediately, as the company awaits a calmer public perception. CEO Allison Kirkby indicated that recent disruptions affecting Ukraine's military communications have created controversy, prompting BT to delay the launch. Although the service is ready and seen as a significant advancement for rural connectivity, BT is exercising caution.
Kirkby explained that the launch is contingent on the 'noise' surrounding Starlink subsiding following the Ukraine incidents. This decision reflects a careful approach to how the partnership might be viewed. Despite these hesitations, BT highlighted Starlink's technological superiority and expressed excitement for the collaboration, which aims to serve areas beyond their fibre broadband network.
Virgin Media O2, a rival UK telecoms firm, already has a similar deal with Starlink for its mobile customers. Meanwhile, Starlink itself has broader ambitions, including potential direct commercial mobile offerings, which have raised concerns in Europe, prompting discussions about reserving spectrum for European providers. BT, however, assured that Starlink intends only to partner with UK telecoms groups.
