Starlink is not really 'free' for the victims of Hurricane Helene.
It is essentially a 30-day free trial.
Elon Musk's announcement to offer free Starlink internet for 30 days to the thousands of people affected by Hurricane Helene has raised some doubts about its true nature. While it initially seems like an attempt at support, the reality is that this offer resembles more of a marketing strategy than a real solution for residents who are left without connectivity.
To access this "free service," users need to purchase the Starlink hardware kit, which costs $350. Additionally, at the end of the 30-day trial period, users could be automatically subscribed to the $120 monthly plan. On the support page for hurricane victims, it is stated that "a Starlink kit is required to access this free service," and interested parties must purchase it through the official Starlink website or authorized retailers like Best Buy or Home Depot.
However, the offer does intend to extend a 30-day credit to existing customers, although they will need to create a help ticket to receive a waiver that will be processed at a date yet to be determined.
In this context, it's important to highlight that the offer depends on the availability of electricity or generators, which is a significant challenge. A week after Hurricane Helene's passage, over 850,000 residents in seven states still lacked electricity, while restoration efforts continue, just as a second hurricane, Milton, impacted Florida.
Despite the criticism of this promotional strategy, Starlink has been contributing emergency services that support humanitarian efforts. The federal government has deployed emergency satellites and numerous ground units to assist aid organizations in the area. Recently, Starlink also announced the activation of its Direct to Cell satellites, which will allow T-Mobile users to send SMS messages just before Hurricane Milton's arrival.
