Story perspectives

Starlink Surpasses 2 Million U.S. Subscribers, Threatens HughesNet

11/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2025, Starlink surged in popularity, surpassing two million U.S. subscribers and totaling over six million worldwide.
The growth shifts customers toward Starlink, especially in rural areas, challenging HughesNet's subscriber base.
EchoStar Corporation, HughesNet's parent company, partnered with Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) to create a referral program directing HughesNet customers to Starlink.
The arrangement preserves some HughesNet revenue, but may be insufficient to avert bankruptcy and withdrawal from broadband.

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Story summary

In 2025, Starlink surged in popularity, surpassing two million U.S. subscribers and totaling over six million worldwide.
The growth shifts customers toward Starlink, especially in rural areas, challenging HughesNet's subscriber base.
EchoStar Corporation, HughesNet's parent company, partnered with Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) to create a referral program directing HughesNet customers to Starlink.
The arrangement preserves some HughesNet revenue, but may be insufficient to avert bankruptcy and withdrawal from broadband.