MICROSOFT PARTNERS WITH STARLINK TO EXPAND RURAL INTERNET ACCESS WORLDWIDE

Microsoft has announced a new collaboration with Starlink to accelerate rural and remote internet access globally, extending its digital inclusion strategy beyond terrestrial infrastructure.

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The update comes as the company reports it has already expanded connectivity coverage to more than 299 million people worldwide, surpassing its earlier target of reaching 250 million by the end of 2025.

The partnership deepens Microsoft's efforts to close what it describes as the “last-mile” connectivity gap—regions where fiber, cable, and mobile networks remain economically or physically difficult to deploy. By integrating satellite broadband from Starlink, Microsoft aims to bring reliable internet to communities that remain disconnected from education platforms, healthcare systems, financial services, and modern economic opportunities.

TARGETING THE LAST MILE OF GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY

Despite rapid digital expansion over the past decade, billions of people still lack consistent broadband access. Rural villages, island nations, mountainous regions, and sparsely populated agricultural areas often fall outside traditional telecom investment models due to high infrastructure costs and lower expected returns.

Microsoft's digital access program initially focused on TV white space spectrum, fixed wireless, and partnerships with local providers. While those strategies helped expand coverage significantly, satellite connectivity is increasingly viewed as essential for the most remote locations.