SpaceX has launched the second generation of its compact satellite antenna, the Starlink Mini 2, tailored for mobile use. A key innovation is the removable 71 Wh battery pack, which provides up to 4.5 hours of standalone operation. The power unit attaches to the body via a quick-release mechanism, allowing users to easily swap or purchase additional elements. Alongside the arrival of the Mini 2, the company has also updated the dish itself: the housing has become thinner, and the integrated router now supports Wi-Fi 6 instead of the previous Wi-Fi 5 standard.
Battery Life and Power
The removable battery weighs 490 g, charges via a USB-C port at up to 60W, and is equipped with LED indicators showing the charge status. The delivery kit includes a 60W power adapter and a three-meter USB-C cable. Deserving special attention is the departure from the previous logic of automatic startup upon power connection: the Mini 2 now features a physical control button, making device operation much more predictable in field conditions.
Dimensions, Weight, and Protection
The antenna dimensions are 314 × 263 × 23.1 mm: the dish has become slightly wider than the previous version, but nearly 13 mm thinner. Together with the battery and stand, the device weighs 1.6 kg. Among other improvements are IP67 housing protection, a Wi-Fi coverage area of up to 167 m², a 55-degree field of view, a foldable stand, and a standard 1/4-inch threaded mount for tripod installation. Thus, the Mini 2 has become noticeably better suited for use far from stationary power sources, although the extra autonomy comes at the cost of increased total weight.
Pricing and Availability
In the US, Starlink has already opened pre-orders for the Mini 2, though they are currently available only to select clients by invitation. The antenna costs $250—roughly $100 more than the discounted price of the original Mini. An additional battery can be purchased separately for $50. Moving forward, SpaceX plans to expand the geographical sales of the device. Operation of the portable antenna requires the Starlink Roam plan, and alongside the launch of the Mini 2, the company is offering a discount on the monthly fee for this plan.
Context and Future Plans
The release of the Mini 2 fits into SpaceX's broader strategy for expanding satellite internet. It was previously reported that Starlink satellite dishes would begin selling in the US not only through proprietary channels, but also in supermarkets and private stores. This indicates the company's intention to make portable terminals a more mainstream product available at regular retail locations rather than solely through pre-order.
