The FCC has granted SpaceX approval for a mysterious “wireless module” device, sparking speculation it may be a new Starlink router.
The device, codenamed “UTW-231,” supports Wi-Fi 6 and operates on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, according to SpaceX’s filing. With chips from MediaTek and antennas included, this small router is intriguing due to its compact size—small enough to fit in a person’s hand.
Although details are sparse, documents reveal the device can achieve Wi-Fi speeds up to 1,300Mbps. Importantly, SpaceX has requested confidentiality for internal and external photos and the user manual for the next 180 days, hinting at an impending announcement.
This device could be connected to SpaceX’s forthcoming Starlink mini dish, which CEO Elon Musk mentioned will be small enough to fit in a backpack. Recent firmware updates and mentions on the Starlink website suggest the mini dish, referenced as “mini1,” may debut soon. Last year, SpaceX released its Gen 3 Wi-Fi 6 router, bundled with the V4 Starlink dish, following a similar FCC approval.
The latest FCC authorization hints at another imminent product launch, likely aimed at enhancing Starlink’s satellite internet service portability and ease of use.
