The Name That Causes Confusion!
If you’ve recently purchased a Subaru vehicle with their “Starlink” system and wondered if your car somehow connects to Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, you’re not alone. This mix-up happens frequently, and for good reason – both services share the exact same name but serve completely different purposes.
“Wait, so my Subaru isn’t connecting to space satellites launched by SpaceX?” you might ask. Let’s clear things up once and for all.
Despite sharing the “Starlink” name, Subaru’s in-car system and Elon Musk’s internet service are entirely unrelated. The similarity ends with the name – a coincidence that has confused many consumers. Let’s explore each service to understand what they actually do and who’s behind them.
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What is Subaru Starlink and How Does it Work?
Subaru Starlink is an automotive infotainment and safety system that debuted in 2016. It’s designed specifically for Subaru vehicles and has nothing to do with Elon Musk or SpaceX. Think of it as your car’s command center for entertainment, navigation, and safety features.
The system connects to cellular networks (not space satellites) to provide various services that enhance your driving experience.
Key Subaru Starlink Features for Vehicle Owners
Subaru Starlink features include remote engine start/stop, door lock/unlock, and vehicle location services. Using the MySubaru app, owners can control these functions from their smartphones, making it convenient to warm up your car on a cold morning or check if you remembered to lock the doors.
The safety-focused side of Subaru Starlink features automatic collision notification, which can alert emergency services if your vehicle is involved in an accident. Other safety capabilities include:
- SOS emergency assistance at the touch of a button
- Stolen vehicle recovery to help locate your car if it’s taken
- Enhanced roadside assistance when you need help on the road
Many vehicle owners appreciate how Subaru Starlink enhances their driving experience with connectivity features while providing peace of mind through its safety services. The system operates on a subscription model, with plans starting around $99 per year as of 2025.
It’s worth noting that in January 2023, security researchers identified vulnerabilities in the system that Subaru quickly addressed. No customer accounts were reported compromised, and the company implemented fixes to strengthen security.
Understanding Elon Musk Starlink: The SpaceX Internet Service
On the completely opposite end of the technology spectrum is Elon Musk Starlink, a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX. This service has nothing to do with cars or Subaru – it’s all about providing high-speed internet access through thousands of small satellites in low Earth orbit.
As of June 2025, Elon Musk Starlink has deployed over 7,600 satellites in low Earth orbit, with SpaceX launching 72 Falcon 9 rockets in 2025 alone – 53 of which carried Starlink satellites. The ambitious vision behind Elon Musk Starlink is to provide high-speed internet access globally, especially in remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking.
How Starlink Internet is Changing Global Connectivity
Recent performance data shows Starlink internet achieving median download speeds of 104 Mbps, with upload speeds averaging 14.84 Mbps and latency of approximately 45 milliseconds. These numbers continue to improve as more satellites join the constellation.
Rural communities particularly benefit from Starlink internet where traditional broadband is unavailable. The service has been revolutionary for:
- Remote workers who need reliable internet connections
- Rural schools and healthcare facilities
- Areas recovering from natural disasters where ground infrastructure is damaged
- Regions with limited or no access to fiber or cable internet
The expanding constellation of satellites continues to improve Starlink internet coverage worldwide, with SpaceX developing “V3” satellites capable of delivering gigabit broadband speeds and even direct-to-cell capabilities for text and internet access.
Is Subaru Starlink the Same as Starlink? Clearing the Confusion
Is Subaru Starlink the same as Starlink? No, they are completely different services with no connection. The only thing they share is a name, which has led to understandable confusion.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the key differences:
| Aspect | Subaru Starlink | Elon Musk’s Starlink |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Vehicle infotainment and safety system | Satellite internet service |
| Owner | Subaru Corporation | SpaceX (Elon Musk’s company) |
| Technology | Cellular network-based | Space satellite constellation |
| Launch Year | 2016 | 2019 (first satellites) |
| Target Users | Subaru vehicle owners | Anyone needing internet access |
| Connection Type | Connects to cellular networks | Connects to orbiting satellites |
Many consumers wonder: is Subaru Starlink the same as Starlink from SpaceX? They are entirely separate technologies developed by different companies for different purposes. When comparing whether is Subaru Starlink the same as Starlink, it’s important to note they only share a name.
Who Owns Starlink: SpaceX, Elon Musk, and Satellite Internet
When asking who owns Starlink, the answer is SpaceX, Elon Musk’s aerospace company. SpaceX developed and operates the satellite internet service as part of Musk’s vision for advancing space technology and global connectivity.
Understanding who owns Starlink helps clarify its distinction from similarly named services. Elon Musk serves as the CEO and chief engineer at SpaceX, overseeing the Starlink project among the company’s many space initiatives.
The question of who owns Starlink is often confused with other services that share the name, like Subaru’s system. To be absolutely clear:
- Subaru Starlink is owned and operated by Subaru Corporation
- SpaceX Starlink is owned and operated by SpaceX (Elon Musk’s company)
- There is no business relationship, partnership, or technology sharing between these companies
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my Subaru connect to Elon Musk’s satellites?
No. Your Subaru Starlink system connects to cellular networks, not to SpaceX’s satellites. The two systems are completely unrelated despite sharing the same name.
Why did both companies choose the name “Starlink”?
This appears to be coincidental. Both companies independently chose the name, which evokes connectivity (link) and something cosmic or far-reaching (star). There’s no evidence of any trademark dispute between the companies.
Can I get Elon Musk’s Starlink internet in my Subaru?
Not through the built-in Subaru Starlink system. However, theoretically, you could use a separate Starlink terminal in your vehicle if you had the proper setup and power supply, though this isn’t a typical use case and would require additional equipment not related to your car’s built-in system.
Which came first, Subaru Starlink or Elon Musk’s Starlink?
Subaru Starlink launched in 2016, while SpaceX began launching Starlink satellites in 2019, making Subaru’s system the first to market with the name.
The Bottom Line: Same Name, Different Worlds
The next time someone asks you if your Subaru’s Starlink system is connected to Elon Musk’s satellites, you can confidently explain that despite the identical names, these are two completely separate technologies with different purposes, owners, and functionalities.
Subaru Starlink is all about enhancing your driving experience with connectivity and safety features, while Elon Musk’s Starlink is focused on revolutionizing internet access through space-based technology.
The shared name is nothing more than a coincidence – one that continues to cause confusion but hopefully makes a bit more sense now. Whether you’re enjoying remote start features in your Subaru or high-speed internet in a remote location, you’re experiencing the benefits of innovative technology – just from two entirely different companies.
