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SpaceX’s big mobile carrier plans could reportedly involve buying Boost Mobile

By · Via The Verge · Published by Everything Blog

In short

The potential transaction builds directly on prior spectrum deals between SpaceX and EchoStar designed to augment satellite-to-cell capabilities. SpaceX previously secured low-band spectrum licenses specifically to help Starlink signals pass through buildings. In addition to acquiring carrier assets, the aerospace firm has also been seeking access to at least 80,000 ground-based cell sites across the country.

Key points

  • SpaceX is seeking to blend its orbital satellite constellation directly with traditional…: SpaceX is seeking to blend its orbital satellite constellation directly with traditional terrestrial cellular networks.
  • An acquisition or network access deal with Boost Mobile would instantly position Starlink…: An acquisition or network access deal with Boost Mobile would instantly position Starlink as a major mobile carrier.
  • Negotiations to access at least 80,000 nationwide cell sites demonstrate SpaceX's massive…: Negotiations to access at least 80,000 nationwide cell sites demonstrate SpaceX's massive push into consumer telecommunications infrastructure.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

SpaceX has discussed a deal with Boost Mobile to launch its own service through the budget-friendly carrier, according to a report from the Washington Post. The deal, which comes as SpaceX aims to make Starlink a “major” mobile carrier, reportedly involves the Elon Musk-owned company acquiring Boost Mobile or accessing its network.

SpaceX’s big mobile carrier plans could reportedly involve buying Boost Mobile

SpaceX is looking into launching its own service through Boost Mobile, the Washington Post reports.

SpaceX is looking into launching its own service through Boost Mobile, the Washington Post reports.

Musk discussed the potential agreement with Charlie Ergen, the chairman of Boost Mobile parent company EchoStar, last month, as reported by the Washington Post. Boost Mobile’s network is currently powered by T-Mobile and AT&T, meaning SpaceX may need permission from the two carriers to launch its service.

Neither SpaceX nor Boost Mobile immediately responded to The Verge’s request for comment.

SpaceX has ramped up efforts to build out its mobile service in recent months, which will combine its satellite-to-mobile constellation with a terrestrial network. The company acquired…

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