Elon Musk says Starlink could provide most of the world’s internet access within 10 years as SpaceX expands its satellite network and invests heavily in artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Elon Musk has predicted that SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service could eventually deliver the majority of the world’s internet connectivity within the next decade.
Speaking after SpaceX published its latest financial results, the world’s richest man said Starlink’s global expansion could put the service at the centre of the internet landscape, provided it continues receiving permission to operate in different countries.
Musk said: “It’s not out of the question that at some point Starlink will deliver a majority of the world’s internet, at least in countries where we’re allowed to operate, which is the vast majority of countries… in less than 10 years.”
Starlink provides broadband internet through a network of thousands of low Earth orbit satellites, aiming to bring high-speed connectivity to areas where traditional infrastructure is limited or unavailable.
The service is now available in more than 160 countries and territories, with around 12 million subscribers worldwide. Starlink subscriptions have doubled compared with the previous year, helping make the satellite business one of SpaceX’s biggest sources of revenue.
SpaceX reported revenue of $7.8 billion (£5.8 billion) for the three months from April to June, almost double the $4.1 billion recorded during the same period last year.
Starlink revenue increased by 66 per cent and accounted for more than half of the company’s total income.
However, SpaceX also reported a loss of $541 million for the quarter, although this was significantly lower than the $1 billion loss recorded a year earlier.
The company’s spending on infrastructure increased sharply, with capital expenditure rising above $18 billion compared with $2.83 billion during the same period last year.
Alongside Starlink, SpaceX is increasing its focus on artificial intelligence.
Musk said the company is building AI computing capacity at scale and is developing orbital data centres using Nvidia technology.
SpaceX has partnered with Nvidia to use its chips in Starmind AI1 satellites, which are designed to operate as space-based computing platforms.
Musk said the company expects to receive a significant share of Nvidia’s highly sought-after processors next year.
The expansion of Starlink remains closely tied to SpaceX’s next-generation Starship rocket, which is expected to help deploy more advanced satellites and support future orbital computing systems.
While Starlink has grown rapidly, the service still faces challenges including regulatory approval, competition from other satellite providers and the enormous cost of maintaining a global satellite network.
Musk’s prediction represents an ambitious vision for SpaceX, as the company attempts to transform Starlink from a niche connectivity service into a major part of the world’s internet infrastructure.
Elon Musk backs Starlink to deliver majority of world’s internet within the next decade
