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.
- What will it take for SpaceX to launch its “major” mobile network?
- SpaceX is working with Qualcomm to build its Starlink Mobile 5G network
- SpaceX could buy Boost Mobile as part of its big mobile carrier plans
- SpaceX’s mobile carrier push reportedly involves tapping into 80,000 cell sites
- SpaceX announces plan to become a ‘major mobile carrier’
- SpaceX is coming for T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon
