This Week in Startups
FCC's Brendan Carr on Starlink subsidy revocation, China's internet ambitions, and TikTok | E1870
Dec 25, 2023
Brendan Carr, an FCC Commissioner known for his critical stance on tech regulation, shares intriguing insights on the recent revocation of Starlink's $900 million subsidy. He explores the implications of this decision for rural internet access and the satellite internet race. The discussion also delves into the geopolitical concerns surrounding China’s internet ambitions, highlighting the potential impacts of TikTok on U.S. democracy. Carr's perspective on regulating emerging technologies offers a thought-provoking look at the future of internet connectivity.
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Quick takeaways
- The revocation of Starlink's subsidy raises concerns about the future of affordable, high-speed internet access for rural areas in the United States.
- Starlink's affordability and quick deployment could lead to increased competition and price wars in the internet provider market.
Deep dives
The FCC revokes Starlink subsidy due to alleged inability to deliver high-speed internet service
The FCC has made a puzzling decision to revoke a nearly $1 billion subsidy awarded to Starlink in 2020. The FCC claimed that Starlink is not reasonably likely to deliver 120 internet service to 640,000 rural locations. However, this decision appears inconsistent given that the federal government relies on Starlink for critical operations and connectivity. The decision may be tied to a broader pattern of regulatory harassment against Elon Musk and his companies, as multiple government agencies have been scrutinizing his operations. This decision raises concerns about the future of affordable, high-speed internet access for rural areas in the United States.
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