Elon Musk’s satellite internet company Starlink has updated its privacy policy to allow the use of consumer data for training artificial intelligence systems, according to a revised policy published by the company, a move that places the service alongside a growing list of tech firms broadening how user data can be used in AI development.
The policy change allows Starlink, which is operated by Musk’s SpaceX, to process certain customer information to “improve and develop” products, including AI-based technologies. While the company said it does not sell personal data, the update confirms that user information may now be analysed to train machine-learning models, subject to applicable laws and safeguards.
Starlink provides satellite broadband services to more than two million users globally, including consumers, businesses and government agencies. Its rapid expansion, particularly in remote and underserved regions, means the policy update could have wide-reaching implications for how data generated by satellite internet users is handled.
What data may be used
According to the updated policy, data that could be used for AI training includes usage information, system performance data and customer interactions with Starlink services. The company said sensitive personal details would remain protected and that data processing would comply with privacy regulations in different jurisdictions.
However, privacy experts note that even anonymised or aggregated data can raise concerns when used at scale. Consumer advocates have called for greater clarity on exactly how data will be used, how long it will be retained and whether users will be given meaningful options to opt out.
Part of a broader AI push
The move fits into Musk’s broader ambitions in artificial intelligence. He is the founder of xAI, an AI company developing large language models, and has repeatedly argued that access to large datasets is critical to competing in the fast-moving AI sector. While Starlink did not explicitly link the policy change to xAI, analysts say the update reflects increasing integration between data-rich platforms and AI development.
Other major technology companies, including social media and cloud service providers, have made similar policy changes in recent years as competition to build more capable AI systems intensifies.
Regulatory and user scrutiny
The update is likely to attract scrutiny from regulators, particularly in Europe, where data protection laws impose strict requirements on consent and transparency. Legal experts say companies must clearly justify how user data is used for AI training and ensure compliance with regional privacy frameworks.
Starlink said customers would be notified of material changes to its privacy policy and encouraged users to review the updated terms. For now, the policy revision underscores how rapidly evolving AI technologies are reshaping long-standing assumptions about data ownership and use.
