@trdebunked@tech.lgbt
Worse and more expensive than what, submarine communication cabling? I don't think that either of these two is supposed to replace already existing and reliable infrastructure in urban areas, same as satphones didn't replace regular cellphones, but they exist and are very useful where there is no infrastructure or when it goes down in case of emergencies.
@trdebunked@tech.lgbt
Starlink for one is being used in Ukraine now, that's a rather extreme case, but it demonstrates the field of application quite well. Rescue teams use satphones during floods, fires, massive power outages, including in the areas where communication isn't available even under normal conditions. Having broadband Internet as an option? Why not, it's good! Of course it doesn't come without downsides, for one, space debris looks like a problem.