Update: Since this story was written, Starlink changed their GPS policy and now allows Priority service plans customers to access to GPS data. All other plans have lost GPS data access. See our story: Starlink Restores GPS Access
On May 20th, Starlink removed exact GPS data access from the local gRPC API that many third-party applications and devices previously relied on.
In simpler terms, devices and software on your local network can no longer pull exact GPS location data directly from the Starlink dish itself.
All customers had been notified via email that they would lose access to GPS data on May 20th.
For most RVers using Starlink on land in the US, removing GPS data probably won't matter much. But those who have been using that GPS data for automation, tracking, navigation, or other third-party integrations are going to notice this change pretty quickly.
One of the bigger impacts here is likely for maritime users. In some parts of the world where GPS spoofing or jamming is more common, some cruisers have been using the location data from the Starlink satellites, which can be used instead of GPS satellites for navigation. Customers will now need to be on a Priority service plan or pursue other solutions to have accurate GPS data now.
Some Peplink users may also be impacted.
Though most Peplink routers include a built in traditional GPS receiver, some Peplink routers like the popular and affordable Peplink B One do not include built-in GPS hardware at all - but they can instead rely on the GPS feed from Starlink to enable location-based functionality.
However, even though Starlink is no longer viable as a precise location source for non-priority service plan holders- Peplink routers without a built in GPS can still use Synergy Mode to connect with a second Peplink router on the local network to share that router's GPS antenna.
At this point, Starlink has not publicly commented on why the GPS data feed was removed - though many analysts suspect it was related to military concerns.
Key Mobile Internet Related Considerations:
- Starlink has removed exact GPS data access from its local gRPC API (unless you have a Priority service plan)
- Most land-based RV users are unlikely to notice much impact from this change.
- Navigation, tracking, and automation setups relying on Starlink GPS data may stop functioning.
- Some Peplink routers had been using Starlink GPS data for location services, though Peplink Synergy mode can still provide GPS location data.
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Related Content at the Mobile Internet Resource Center:
- Guide: Starlink Satellite Internet For Mobile RV And Boat Use
- Starlink Resources: Starlink Resource Collection
- Content Collection: Mobile Satellite Internet Resources
- Gear: SpaceX Starlink
Related Updates:
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