Starry Internet sought to disrupt the fixed broadband market by offering an alternative to traditional cable and fiber internet providers. It focused on delivering high-speed internet access wirelessly, utilizing millimeter wave technology. This approach aimed to bypass the expensive and time-consuming process of laying down physical cables, potentially reaching underserved urban areas more quickly and affordably. This positioned Starry as a competitor to established internet service providers, particularly in densely populated areas where trenching for fiber can be challenging.
The potential benefits of fixed wireless technology like Starry’s included faster deployment times, reduced infrastructure costs, and increased competition within the broadband market, theoretically leading to lower prices and better service for consumers. Historically, the broadband market has been dominated by large telecommunications companies, often resulting in limited choices and higher prices for consumers. A successful fixed wireless solution could have significantly altered this landscape, offering a more agile and competitive alternative. However, the practical challenges of millimeter wave technology, including susceptibility to weather and line-of-sight requirements, proved difficult to overcome at scale.