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SpaceX could be planning to offer a Starlink mobile network for consumers, reports say - but some experts think it's
SpaceX is reportedly planning to launch a Starlink-branded terrestrial mobile network to compete with major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
Key takeaways
- SpaceX is planning to launch a Starlink-branded mobile network to compete with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile
- SpaceX paid $17 billion to EchoStar for a chunk of wireless spectrum licences
- It would be incredibly hard for SpaceX to build its own networks in a saturated US market
SpaceX is reportedly planning to launch a Starlink-branded terrestrial mobile network to compete with major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. According to a Financial Times report, SpaceX has shared these ambitions with investors and intends to offer consumer contracts. Rather than relying solely on satellite capacity, SpaceX plans to build terrestrial infrastructure, having already paid $17 billion to EchoStar for wireless spectrum licences. While the big three US carriers have so far refused MVNO deals with SpaceX, analysts suggest the EchoStar spectrum could be used as leverage to negotiate a deal.
By the numbers
- $17B
- Paid to EchoStar for wireless spectrum licences
Why this matters
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SpaceX's terrestrial network plans might be a negotiating tactic to force existing carriers into a deal
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Common questions
- What happened with SpaceX?
- SpaceX is planning to launch a Starlink-branded mobile network to compete with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile
- Where can I read the original report?
- Read the full report at techradar.
