SpaceX considers retail mobile service using $17 billion in spectrum licenses, challenging U.S. carriers with direct-to-consumer satellite network.
SpaceX is exploring a direct-to-consumer mobile service under its Starlink brand, leveraging $17 billion in wireless spectrum licenses acquired from EchoStar. The move would position the company as a competitor to Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, bypassing existing carrier partnerships.
The plan, disclosed during investor discussions, includes building a ground-based mobile network in the U.S. A follow-up deal worth $2.6 billion for additional EchoStar spectrum closed in November, expanding direct-to-cell service capabilities. No launch timeline or pricing has been announced.
Currently, Starlink provides supplemental coverage via T-Mobile, filling gaps where terrestrial towers are unavailable. A retail shift would allow SpaceX to control subscriber access and revenue streams independently.