SpaceSail, a Chinese company, has progressed in its preparations to offer satellite internet services in Brazil. The National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) granted approval for a residential terminal belonging to the company, which aims to compete directly with Starlink.
This equipment promises speeds of up to 400 Mb/s; however, the exact launch date and costs have not yet been announced to the public. Known as Qianfan in China, the company plans to begin operations in the national territory during the fourth quarter of 2026, needing to finalize the organization of device imports and the implementation of ground stations before then.
The technology used by SpaceSail is based on low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, allowing the user terminal to establish communication with the space network and provide internet access even in regions with limited terrestrial infrastructure.
The terminal, approved by Anatel under code STG-S001-A0, holds certificate no. 01944-26-18192, classifying it as a mobile satellite transceiver suitable for fixed and mobile configurations. Although homologation has occurred, it does not specify what service modalities will be offered to end consumers.
Physically, the antenna has a rectangular shape, measuring 48 cm by 36 cm by 4 cm and weighing 4 kg. It features IP65 protection against dust and moisture, along with an RJ45 port for wired connection and a status indicator light. A 15-meter cable accompanies the device, enabling installation on roofs or outdoor areas, and the antenna supports Wi-Fi 5, accessible via the company's application.
According to the technical manual, the maximum indicated capacities are 400 Mb/s for download and 100 Mb/s for upload, with these values presented as the potential capacity of the equipment, not as a guarantee of future performance.
The equipment manufacturing will be carried out by Shanghai Hanxun Information Technology, a company based in Nanjing, China. SpaceSail obtained permission to operate in Brazil in February 2026. Additionally, in March, Act No. 3.084 included its network in the guidelines for coordination between non-geostationary satellite systems, aiming to manage network coexistence and prevent interference.
Despite the terminal's homologation, the service is not yet available for purchase, as the company needs to complete operational preparations and define coverage, contracting conditions, and prices.
In November 2024, Telebras and the Ministry of Communications signed a memorandum of understanding with SpaceSail. This agreement aims to assess connectivity demands and explore potential collaborative projects focused on digital inclusion, but it does not imply the immediate launch of a residential plan.
The arrival of the Chinese company has the potential to increase satellite internet alternatives in Brazil, benefiting users located in areas with limited access to terrestrial infrastructure. Competition also includes Amazon Leo, which had a router homologated in the country, although its commercial launch is postponed, with Sky responsible for marketing this service.
Price will be a crucial differentiator. While Starlink plans range from R$ 49 to R$ 619 monthly, SpaceSail has not yet disclosed the equipment or monthly fee values, making it impossible to confirm if it will be more economical. The success of the competition will depend on the proposed prices, the coverage area, and the different service packages that SpaceSail will offer in Brazil, compared to the existing options from Starlink for residential and mobile use.