The initiative pairs direct-to-cell satellite coverage with traditional cellular networks, backed by a recent agreement to acquire low-band spectrum licenses pending FCC approval. SpaceX has partnered with Qualcomm to implement Dragonwing cellular hardware across American cell towers starting in 2027. Furthermore, the company is eyeing access to at least 80,000 cell sites through discussions with Crown Castle and exploring options with EchoStar's Boost Mobile. Despite the aggressive push, Deutsche Telekom's chief executive estimates the entire undertaking could exceed $200 billion.
Key points
SpaceX intends to challenge major carriers AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile by establishing a…: SpaceX intends to challenge major carriers AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile by establishing a hybrid satellite and terrestrial cellular network.
Talks with Crown Castle could grant the satellite company operational access to at least…: Talks with Crown Castle could grant the satellite company operational access to at least 80,000 ground-based cell sites.
Deutsche Telekom CEO Tim Höttges warned that the ambitious wireless venture could require…: Deutsche Telekom CEO Tim Höttges warned that the ambitious wireless venture could require SpaceX to invest over $200 billion.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
SpaceX has declared that it’s going to make Starlink Mobile a “major” mobile carrier. The Elon Musk-owned company has already deployed thousands of direct-to-cell satellites, but its next big challenge is building out its 5G network here on Earth.
As part of its plans to rival AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, SpaceX has inked a deal with Qualcomm, which will deploy its cellular technology across tens of thousands of 5G cell sites starting in 2027. SpaceX is also reportedly in talks to buy Boost Mobile, potentially allowing it to launch Starlink Mobile through the service. Another report suggests SpaceX may tap into 80,000 cell sites across the US to build out its network.
SpaceX’s big plans have garnered some reactions in the telecom industry. Tim Höttges, the CEO of T-Mobile’s parent company Deutsche Telekom, said he takes SpaceX’s plans “super serious” but that it could cost Musk more than $200 billion to pull off.
Follow along for the latest updates on Starlink’s major mobile carrier ambitions.
Pinned
SpaceX’s ambitious, pricey gamble to replace AT&T and Verizon
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