{"id":46987,"date":"2025-08-06T04:43:20","date_gmt":"2025-08-06T04:43:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/46987\/"},"modified":"2025-08-06T04:43:20","modified_gmt":"2025-08-06T04:43:20","slug":"musks-starlink-internet-service-activated-in-somalia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/46987\/","title":{"rendered":"Musk’s Starlink internet service activated in Somalia"},"content":{"rendered":"

Starlink’s satellite internet service<\/a> can now be accessed in Somalia, months after winning regulatory approval, according to a social media post from the company. <\/p>\n

Those at Starlink<\/a> whose responsibility is increasing the availability of the company’s high-speed, low-latency internet offering owned and operated by technology tycoon Elon Musk’s SpaceX hailed adding Somalia to its list of more than 120 countries. <\/p>\n

“It’s our 25th market in Africa,” wrote Ben MacWilliams, leader of Starlink’s market access team on LinkedIn. <\/p>\n

According to Starlink’s website, the company’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites<\/a> and connectivity devices have given more than three million people around the world the ability to connect to high-speed internet where it was previously unavailable.<\/p>\n

Starlink\u2019s standard antennae<\/a> devices, which connect to the company\u2019s LEO satellites, weigh less than 3kg, contain no moving parts and can withstand strong winds.<\/p>\n

Unlike traditional communications satellites, which orbit Earth at a range of 20,000km to 35,000km, Starlink\u2019s thousands of satellites orbit at about 550km, increasing internet speeds and cutting down on latency.<\/p>\n

In contrast to 5G or broadband internet, the satellite version does not depend on mobile towers or high-speed data lines, making connection possible in remote areas. LEO satellites<\/a> have also proven effective in areas of conflict where internet infrastructure has been destroyed<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Starlink is largely considered<\/a> to be the leader in the sector, with various estimates suggesting the company\u2019s constellation consists of at least 7,000 LEO satellites.<\/p>\n

Most recently, however, Amazon launched the first in a series of internet satellites for its Project Kuiper constellation<\/a>, marking a new phase in the company’s plan to challenge Starlink’s dominance.<\/p>\n

Some experts have said constellations of more than 50,000 active LEO satellites could be orbiting within the next decade.<\/p>\n

Morgan Stanley estimates the satellite broadband market could be worth as much as $400 billion by 2040 \u2013 about 40 per cent of the estimated $1 trillion generated by the space industry that year.<\/p>\n

Although more prevalent in many parts of the world in recent years, varying telecoms regulations have led to a methodical introduction of Starlink availability. <\/p>\n

For example, while Starlink is available in nearby Oman, it is still pending regulatory approval in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. <\/p>\n

A document posted to the UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority website shows that Starlink was granted a regulatory licence in 2024 specified for \u201cmaritime satellite internet services\u201d that will last for about 10 years.<\/p>\n

In May, during an appearance at the Saudi-US Investment Summit, Mr Musk claimed that Starlink had been approved for maritime and aviation use in Saudi Arabia. <\/p>\n

Four motivational quotes from Alicia’s Dubai talk<\/p>\n

\u201cThe only thing we need is to know that we have faith. Faith and hope in our own dreams. The belief that, when we keep going\u00a0we\u2019re going to find our way. That\u2019s all we got.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes we try so hard to keep things inside. We try so hard to pretend it\u2019s not really bothering us. In some ways, that hurts us more. You don\u2019t realise how dishonest you are with yourself sometimes, but I realised that if I spoke it, I could let it go.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOne good thing is to know you\u2019re not the only one going through it. You\u2019re not the only one trying to find your way, trying to find yourself, trying to find amazing energy, trying to find a light. Show all of yourself. Show every nuance. All of your magic. All of your colours. Be true to that. You can be unafraid.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s time to stop holding back. It\u2019s time to do it on your terms. It\u2019s time to shine in the most unbelievable way. It\u2019s time to let go of negativity and find your tribe, find those people that lift you up, because everybody else is just in your way.\u201d<\/p>\n

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pocketsThe Perfect Couple<\/p>\n

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, Jack Reynor<\/p>\n

Creator: Jenna Lamia<\/p>\n

Rating: 3\/5<\/p>\n

UAE v Gibraltar<\/p>\n

What: International friendly<\/p>\n

When: 7pm kick off<\/p>\n

Where: Rugby Park, Dubai Sports City<\/p>\n

Admission:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n

Online: The match will be broadcast live on Dubai Exiles\u2019 Facebook page<\/p>\n

UAE squad: Lucas Waddington (Dubai Exiles), Gio Fourie (Exiles), Craig Nutt (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Phil Brady (Harlequins), Daniel Perry (Dubai Hurricanes), Esekaia Dranibota (Harlequins), Matt Mills (Exiles), Jaen Botes (Exiles), Kristian Stinson (Exiles), Murray Reason (Abu Dhabi Saracens), Dave Knight (Hurricanes), Ross Samson (Jebel Ali Dragons), DuRandt Gerber (Exiles), Saki Naisau (Dragons), Andrew Powell (Hurricanes), Emosi Vacanau (Harlequins), Niko Volavola (Dragons), Matt Richards (Dragons), Luke Stevenson (Harlequins), Josh Ives (Dubai Sports City Eagles), Sean Stevens (Saracens), Thinus Steyn (Exiles)<\/p>\n

Zayed Sustainability PrizeGeneration Start-up: Awok company profile<\/p>\n

Started: 2013<\/p>\n

Founder: Ulugbek Yuldashev<\/p>\n

Sector: e-commerce<\/p>\n

Size: 600 plus<\/p>\n

Stage: still in talks with VCs<\/p>\n

Principal Investors: self-financed by founder<\/p>\n

Ferrari 12Cilindri specs<\/p>\n

Engine: naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12<\/p>\n

Power: 819hp<\/p>\n

Torque: 678Nm at 7,250rpm<\/p>\n

Price: From Dh1,700,000<\/p>\n

Available: Now<\/p>\n

Mohammed bin Zayed MajlisTips to stay safe during hot weather
\nStay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
\nSeek cool environments: Use air conditioning, fans, or visit\u00a0community spaces with climate control.
\nLimit outdoor activities: Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If outside, seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
\nDress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose and light-coloured clothing to facilitate heat loss.
\nCheck on vulnerable people: Regularly check in on elderly neighbours, young children and those with health conditions.
\nHome adaptations: Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight, avoid using ovens or stoves, and ventilate living spaces during cooler hours.
\nRecognise heat illness: Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse, nausea), and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.<\/p>\n

Not Dark Yet<\/p>\n

Shelby Lynne and Allison Moorer<\/p>\n

Four stars<\/p>\n

Virtual banks explained<\/p>\n

What is a virtual bank?<\/p>\n

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority defines it as a bank that delivers services through the internet or other electronic channels instead of physical branches. That means not only facilitating payments but accepting deposits and making loans, just like traditional ones. Other terms used interchangeably include digital or digital-only banks or neobanks. By contrast, so-called digital wallets or e-wallets such as Apple Pay, PayPal or Google Pay usually serve as intermediaries between a consumer\u2019s traditional account or credit card and a merchant, usually via a smartphone or computer.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s the draw in Asia?<\/p>\n

Hundreds of millions of people under-served by traditional institutions, for one thing. In China, India and elsewhere, digital wallets such as Alipay, WeChat Pay and Paytm have already become ubiquitous, offering millions of people an easy way to store and spend their money via mobile phone. Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines are also among the world\u2019s biggest under-banked countries; together they have almost half a billion people.<\/p>\n

Is\u00a0Hong Kong short of\u00a0banks?<\/p>\n

No, but the city is among the most cash-reliant major economies, leaving room for newcomers to disrupt the entrenched industry. Ant Financial, an Alibaba Group Holding affiliate that runs Alipay and MYBank, and Tencent Holdings, the company behind WeBank and WeChat Pay, are among the owners of the eight ventures licensed to create virtual banks in Hong Kong, with operations expected to start as early as the end of the year.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Star%20Wars%3A%20Episode%20I%20%E2%80%93%20The%20Phantom%20Menace<\/p>\n

%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDeveloper%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Big%20Ape%20Productions%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPublisher%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20LucasArts%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EConsoles%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20PC%2C%20PlayStation%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%202%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A<\/p>\n

‘C’mon\u00a0C’mon’<\/p>\n

Director:Mike\u00a0Mills<\/p>\n

Stars:Joaquin\u00a0Phoenix,\u00a0Gaby\u00a0Hoffmann,\u00a0Woody\u00a0Norman<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a04\/5<\/p>\n

THE SPECS<\/p>\n

GMC Sierra Denali\u00a01500<\/p>\n

Engine: 6.2-litre V8<\/p>\n

Transmission: 10-speed\u00a0automatic<\/p>\n

Power:\u00a0420hp<\/p>\n

Torque:\u00a0623Nm<\/p>\n

Price:\u00a0Dh232,500<\/p>\n

ONCE UPON A TIME IN GAZA<\/p>\n

Starring: Nader Abd Alhay, Majd Eid, Ramzi Maqdisi<\/p>\n

Directors: Tarzan and Arab Nasser<\/p>\n

Rating: 4.5\/5<\/p>\n

Tearful appearance<\/p>\n

Chancellor Rachel Reeves set markets on edge as she appeared visibly distraught in parliament on Wednesday.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Legislative setbacks for the government have blown a new hole in the budgetary calculations at a time when the deficit is stubbornly large and the economy is struggling to grow.\u00a0<\/p>\n

She appeared with Keir Starmer on Thursday and the pair embraced, but he had failed to give her his backing as she cried a day earlier.<\/p>\n

A spokesman said her upset demeanour was due to a personal matter.<\/p>\n

More from Rashmee Roshan Lall<\/p>\n

The First Monday in May
Director: Andrew Rossi
Starring: Anna Wintour, Karl Lagerfeld, John Paul Gaultier, Rihanna
Three stars<\/p>\n

The specs: 2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo<\/p>\n

The specs: 2018 Nissan 370Z Nismo
Price, base \/ as tested: Dh182,178
Engine: 3.7-litre V6
Power: 350hp @ 7,400rpm
Torque: 374Nm @ 5,200rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200bFuel consumption, combined: 10.5L \/ 100km<\/p>\n

How to help<\/p>\n

Send \u201cthenational\u201d to the following numbers or call the hotline on: 0502955999
2289 \u2013 Dh10
2252 \u2013 Dh 50
6025 \u2013 Dh20
6027 \u2013 Dh 100
6026 \u2013 Dh 200<\/p>\n

Ain Dubai in numbers<\/p>\n

126: The length in metres of the legs supporting the structure<\/p>\n

1 football pitch: The length of each permanent spoke is longer than a professional soccer pitch<\/p>\n

16 A380 Airbuses: The equivalent weight of the wheel rim.<\/p>\n

9,000 tonnes: The amount of steel used to construct the project.<\/p>\n

5 tonnes: The weight of each permanent spoke that is holding the wheel rim in place<\/p>\n

192: The amount of cable wires used to create the wheel. They measure a distance of 2,4000km in total, the equivalent of the distance between Dubai and Cairo.<\/p>\n

If you go…<\/p>\n

Fly from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai in Thailand, via Bangkok, before taking a five-hour bus ride across the Laos border to Huay Xai. The land border crossing at Huay Xai is a well-trodden route, meaning entry is swift, though travellers should be aware of visa requirements for both countries.<\/p>\n

Flights from Dubai start at Dh4,000 return with Emirates, while Etihad flights from Abu Dhabi start at Dh2,000. Local buses can be booked in Chiang Mai from around Dh50<\/p>\n

OPINIONS ON PALESTINE & ISRAEL’O’<\/p>\n

%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EAuthor%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Zeina%20Hashem%20Beck%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPages%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20112%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPublisher%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Penguin%20Books%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EAvailable%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Now%3C%2Fp%3E%0A<\/p>\n

The alternatives<\/p>\n

\u2022 Founded in 2014, Telr is a payment aggregator and gateway with an office in Silicon Oasis. It\u2019s e-commerce entry plan costs Dh349 monthly (plus VAT). QR codes direct customers to an online payment page and merchants can generate payments through messaging apps.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Business Bay\u2019s Pallapay claims 40,000-plus active merchants who can invoice customers and receive payment by card. Fees range from 1.99 per cent plus Dh1 per transaction depending on payment method and location, such as online or via UAE mobile.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Tap started in May 2013 in Kuwait, allowing Middle East businesses to bill, accept, receive and make payments online \u201ceasier, faster and smoother\u201d via goSell and goCollect. It supports more than 10,000 merchants. Monthly fees range from US$65-100, plus card charges of 2.75-3.75 per cent and Dh1.2 per sale.<\/p>\n

\u2022 2checkout\u2019s \u201call-in-one payment gateway and merchant account\u201d accepts payments in 200-plus markets for 2.4-3.9 per cent, plus a Dh1.2-Dh1.8 currency conversion charge. The US provider processes online shop and mobile transactions and has 17,000-plus active digital commerce users.<\/p>\n

\u2022 PayPal is probably the best-known online goods payment method\u00a0–\u00a0usually used for eBay purchases –\u00a0\u00a0but can be used to receive funds, providing everyone\u2019s signed up. Costs from 2.9 per cent plus Dh1.2 per transaction.<\/p>\n

MATCH INFO<\/p>\n

Al Jazira 3 (O Abdulrahman 43′, Kenno 82′, Mabkhout 90 4′)<\/p>\n

Al Ain 1 (Laba 39′)<\/p>\n

Red cards: Bandar Al Ahbabi (Al Ain)<\/p>\n

COMPANY%20PROFILE<\/p>\n

%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EName%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESmartCrowd%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EStarted%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E2018%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EFounder%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESiddiq%20Farid%20and%20Musfique%20Ahmed%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EBased%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EDubai%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ESector%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EFinTech%20%2F%20PropTech%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInitial%20investment%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E%24650%2C000%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ECurrent%20number%20of%20staff%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%2035%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestment%20stage%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3ESeries%20A%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EInvestors%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EVarious%20institutional%20investors%20and%20notable%20angel%20investors%20(500%20MENA%2C%20Shurooq%2C%20Mada%2C%20Seedstar%2C%20Tricap)%3C%2Fp%3E%0A<\/p>\n

How much do leading UAE\u2019s UK curriculum schools charge for Year 6?
\nNord Anglia International School (Dubai) \u2013 Dh85,032
\nKings School Al Barsha (Dubai) \u2013 Dh71,905
\nBrighton College Abu Dhabi – Dh68,560
\nJumeirah English Speaking School (Dubai) \u2013 Dh59,728
\nGems Wellington International School \u2013 Dubai Branch \u2013 Dh58,488
\nThe British School Al Khubairat (Abu Dhabi) – Dh54,170
\nDubai English Speaking School \u2013 Dh51,269<\/p>\n

*Annual tuition fees covering the 2024\/2025 academic year<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Starlink’s satellite internet service can now be accessed in Somalia, months after winning regulatory approval, according to a…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":46988,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[64,63,3120,237,156,155,105,40308],"class_list":["post-46987","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-internet","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-elon-musk","tag-internet","tag-standard","tag-story","tag-technology","tag-us-bureau"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/46987","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=46987"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/46987\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/46988"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=46987"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=46987"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=46987"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}