SpaceX Launches Starlink Mini 2 Satellite Terminal With Swappable Battery
SpaceX has launched the Starlink Mini 2, introducing a portable satellite internet terminal equipped with a detachable quick-swap battery. The company unveiled the hardware on social platform X on November 10, 2026, opening preorder reservations by invitation to select customers in the United States. According to promotional disclosures, the compact terminal establishes an active satellite internet connection in approximately 60 seconds given an unobstructed view of the sky. Elon Musk highlighted the product release online, remarking that the terminal delivers portable high-speed internet anywhere on Earth where Starlink operations are legally authorized.
Removable Battery Architecture and Power Specifications
The terminal incorporates a 71 watt-hour lithium-ion battery pack that clips directly onto the rear chassis and delivers up to 4.5 hours of operation on a single charge. The battery pack weighs 490 grams, or roughly 1.08 pounds, and includes LED charge indicators alongside an integrated 60-watt USB-C Power Delivery charging interface. Users can replace depleted batteries with spare units without tools or run the terminal continuously through external USB-C power sources while the pack recharges. Because the 71 Wh capacity falls below the 100 Wh regulatory ceiling established by the US Federal Aviation Administration, travelers can carry the pack in aircraft cabin luggage without advance airline approval. Techish Kenya calculated that reaching 4.5 hours from a 71 Wh battery means an average draw of no more than about 16 watts, against the 25 to 40 watts in Starlink's spec sheet for the first Mini. Under FAA regulations, lithium batteries exceeding 100Wh require specific airline authorization, according to Satellite Link Power. A review of the original Starlink Mini measured about 20 to 30 watts of power use and noted it can run directly from a 12V battery system, portable power bank, or vehicle, according to DISHYtech.
Physical Dimensions and Upgraded Wireless Hardware
The complete terminal weighs 1.6 kilograms with the battery and kickstand attached, compared with 1.16 kilograms for the original version with its stand. The enclosure measures 23.1 millimeters in thickness, presenting a slimmer profile than the 38.5 millimeter depth of its predecessor despite slightly larger planar measurements of 263 by 314 millimeters. Internal networking moves from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6, expanding wireless coverage from 112 square meters to approximately 167 square meters. The chassis carries an IP67 rating for water immersion and dust protection, and integrates a standard 1/4-inch tripod mounting socket alongside a physical power button.
Bundle Pricing, Roam Service, and Regional Rollout
The initial launch package is priced at $999 plus taxes, requiring a refundable $100 deposit with the remaining $899 charged upon shipment in mid-December. The package includes the satellite dish, one quick-swap battery, a USB-C power cable, and 12 months of Roam Unlimited service, which SpaceX values at $2,100 in promotional materials. The bundled plan supports high-speed connectivity while traveling at speeds up to 100 mph, as well as international roaming for up to 30 days per trip. The hardware remains unavailable in India pending regulatory operating licenses amid competitive disputes with domestic telecommunications operators including Reliance Jio.