SpaceX aims to build Starlink into a major mobile carrier

SpaceX wants Starlink Mobile to become a “major” mobile carrier, but reaching that goal will require more than its fleet of direct-to-cell satellites: the company is also pursuing a terrestrial 5G network and potential access to tens of thousands of US cell sites.

Corp and Tech·November 7, 2026·reads: 2,346

SpaceX aims to build Starlink into a major mobile carrier

The company, owned by Elon Musk, has already deployed thousands of direct-to-cell satellites. Its next challenge is expanding 5G infrastructure on the ground, putting it in competition with AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.

SpaceX has signed a deal with Qualcomm to deploy its cellular technology across tens of thousands of 5G cell sites beginning in 2027. The company is also reportedly in talks to buy Boost Mobile, a move that could give it a route to launch Starlink Mobile through the service. A separate report says SpaceX may use 80,000 cell sites across the United States to build its network.

The plans have drawn attention from telecom executives. Tim Höttges, chief executive of T-Mobile parent Deutsche Telekom, said he takes SpaceX’s ambitions “super serious.” He also said the effort could cost Musk more than $200 billion.