All Things Policy Why the Last Internet Shutdown Has Already Happened
Mar 10, 2026
Ashwin Prasad, a researcher and educator on satellite internet and space policy, discusses Starlink’s shift to direct-to-mobile and how it could turn smartphones into users of space-based connectivity. He covers rapid uptake in Africa and conflict zones, creative low-cost local access models, and why developing nations may drive demand for satellite broadband.
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Direct To Phone Satellite Connectivity
- Starlink Mobile aims to connect smartphones directly to satellites, eliminating costly user terminals and expanding the addressable market to anyone with a phone.
- Ashwin Prasad explained this is like a cell tower from space using larger satellite antennas and Qualcomm collaboration to embed capability into phones.
Developing Nations As Primary Growth Market
- Developing countries represent massive untapped demand where satellite internet can leapfrog missing terrestrial infrastructure.
- Ashwin Prasad cites Africa with 400 million offline, Sudan at ~12% internet penetration, and rapid urban uptake in Lagos, Nairobi and Lusaka.
Starlink Turned Into A Battlefield Tool In Sudan
- In Sudan, combatants smuggled and mounted Starlink terminals to restore connectivity after telecoms were attacked.
- Ashwin Prasad described terminals smuggled through neighbouring countries and RSF using Starlink on pickup trucks for coordination and drones.