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Expansion driven by Starlink and new companies promises to revolutionize satellite internet access in remote regions, while 5G remains limited
Satellite internet continues to grow in Brazil, registering a 38% increase in the last year, according to data released by the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) in March 2025. The number of subscribers to the service surpassed 500 thousand users, driven mainly by demand in remote regions and the expansion of Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet company. According to industry experts, the limitation of 5G infrastructure has been one of the main factors driving this growth.
Limited 5G and the search for reliable alternatives
While 5G has been widely promoted as the next revolution in connectivity, its implementation in Brazil faces significant challenges. According to a study by the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV), published in January 2025, 5G coverage is still restricted to large and medium-sized cities, leaving vast areas of the country without access to the new technology.
This limitation has opened the way for alternative solutions, such as satellite internet, which offers high-speed connections without relying on terrestrial infrastructure. According to the Brazilian Association of Internet and Telecommunications Providers (Abrint), around 40% of the Brazilian rural population still does not have access to a stable connection, which reinforces the importance of this advancement.
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Starlink leads the industry as new competitors enter the market
Starlink, the country’s leading satellite internet operator, has dominated the sector. Data from Anatel indicates that, in 2024, the company doubled its customer base in Brazil, reaching 326,8 thousand subscribers – an increase of 145,8% compared to the previous year. This growth allowed Starlink to overtake HughesNet, which previously led the national market.
Chinese companies such as SpaceSail have also announced plans to enter the Brazilian market in 2025, promising to offer more affordable packages and expanded coverage. According to a report by the China National Telecommunications Council, the company intends to start operations in Brazil in the second half of this year.
Satellite Internet and digital inclusion
Satellite connectivity has been essential for the digital inclusion of isolated communities. Regions in the Amazon, Pantanal and the interior of the Northeast have benefited from this advance, allowing access to telemedicine, distance education and digital banking services. The Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA) estimates that the expansion of this service could reduce the number of Brazilians without internet access by 30% by 2030.
According to the University of São Paulo (USP), government projects are also exploring this technology to improve connectivity in public schools and health centers. The Ministry of Communications confirmed that part of the 2025 budget will be allocated to expanding satellite internet to riverside and quilombola communities.
Prospects for the future of satellite internet in Brazil
The growth trend of satellite internet is expected to continue in the coming years. According to projections from the International Satellite Association (SIA), Brazil could reach 1 million users connected via satellite by 2027.
With the arrival of new competitors and the advancement of technology, the expectation is that service prices will become more affordable and connection quality will improve. According to Starlink, new low-orbit satellites, launched in January 2025, will reduce latency and improve connection stability in densely populated regions.
