- SpaceX has told investors it plans to launch a Starlink mobile service for U.S. consumers, the Financial Times reported on Friday, in a move that could allow the Elon Musk-led company to compete directly with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
- SpaceX already offers direct-to-cell connectivity with T-Mobile in the U.S., providing supplemental coverage from space to extend internet access to remote areas.
- SpaceX is now considering launching a Starlink retail product and could build its own terrestrial U.S. mobile network, President Gwynne Shotwell told investors during a recent IPO roadshow, the FT report said, citing sources.
- In September last year, SpaceX acquired wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar for its Starlink satellite network for about $17 billion and then again for $2.6 billion in November, giving it the ability to quickly create a strong and affordable direct-to-cell service by using EchoStar's wireless airwaves.
- SpaceX will enter the $1.6 trillion U.S. communications industry as its satellite broadband unit Starlink expands, brokerage firm Oppenheimer said in a note earlier this month.
- SpaceX's record valuation is grounded in Starlink, which has over 10 million subscribers, and a launch business that analysts and investors say has transformed access to orbit.
SpaceX is expanding its Starlink service to include a mobile offering for U.S. consumers, directly challenging established telecom giants like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. This move comes as the company seeks to leverage its existing satellite technology to provide comprehensive mobile connectivity.123456
During a recent IPO roadshow, President Gwynne Shotwell indicated that SpaceX is considering launching a retail product and potentially building its own terrestrial mobile network. The company has already established a partnership with T-Mobile, offering direct-to-cell connectivity to enhance internet access in remote areas.
In a significant investment, SpaceX acquired wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar for approximately $17 billion last September and an additional $2.6 billion in November, positioning itself to create a robust direct-to-cell service using EchoStar's airwaves. According to brokerage firm Oppenheimer, SpaceX's Starlink unit is poised to tap into the $1.6 trillion U.S. communications industry as it expands its offerings.
Starlink has already garnered over 10 million subscribers, contributing to SpaceX's record valuation and transforming access to satellite services. This expansion into mobile services could further solidify SpaceX's position in the competitive telecommunications landscape.
“SpaceX plans to launch a Starlink mobile service for U.S. consumers, aiming to compete directly with major telecom companies. The company is also considering building its own terrestrial mobile network, according to reports.”
