Technology1 min read

SpaceX is working with Qualcomm to build its Starlink Mobile 5G network

By · Via The Verge · Published by Everything Blog

In short

The initiative pairs direct-to-cell satellites with Qualcomm’s Dragonwing Cellular Infrastructure, which delivers a unified hardware and software platform to optimize cellular capacity and coverage. These deployments will span tens of thousands of ground sites nationwide as SpaceX builds out its network. To support its ambitions to rival carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, SpaceX has already secured spectrum and reportedly looked into acquiring Boost Mobile. The architecture will also serve as a foundational testbed for eventual 6G deployments.

Key points

  • SpaceX is seeking to establish itself as a nationwide wireless carrier rivaling AT&T, Ver…: SpaceX is seeking to establish itself as a nationwide wireless carrier rivaling AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.
  • Recent corporate efforts include securing initial spectrum and exploring the potential ac…: Recent corporate efforts include securing initial spectrum and exploring the potential acquisition of Boost Mobile.
  • The newly developed infrastructure is intended to improve domestic 5G while preparing for…: The newly developed infrastructure is intended to improve domestic 5G while preparing for future 6G systems.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

SpaceX is teaming up with Qualcomm to build out its nationwide mobile network. Under the multi-year deal, SpaceX will bring Qualcomm’s Dragonwing technology to “tens of thousands” of 5G cell sites across the US, with the first deployments set for 2027.

SpaceX is working with Qualcomm to build its Starlink Mobile 5G network

Qualcomm’s ‘biggest 5G deal yet’ is with SpaceX.

Qualcomm’s ‘biggest 5G deal yet’ is with SpaceX.

The news of the partnership comes as part of SpaceX’s push to make Starlink Mobile a “major” carrier in the US, competing directly with T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. The Elon Musk-owned company has already snapped up a swath of spectrum, while recent reports suggested that SpaceX was exploring an acquisition of Boost Mobile.

Now, SpaceX is planning to use Qualcomm’s Dragonwing Cellular Infrastructure, a platform made up of hardware and software designed to boost network coverage, capacity, and efficiency. SpaceX plans to combine this infrastructure with its constellation of direct-to-cell satellites.

“Together with SpaceX, we are building world-leading cellular infrastructure in the United States, advancing 5G today,” Durga Malladi, Qualcomm’s executive…

Technology