SpaceX announced plans to become a major US mobile carrier, partnering with Qualcomm to deploy 5G technology across tens of thousands of cell sites starting in 2027. The company is reportedly exploring a purchase of Boost Mobile and may leverage up to 80,000 existing cell sites to build its network. T-Mobile's parent CEO called the plans serious but estimated the venture could exceed $200 billion.
Background
SpaceX has been deploying direct-to-cell satellites through its Starlink program, enabling basic smartphone connectivity from space. This marks a significant escalation from satellite internet to competing directly with major US terrestrial carriers.
- Source
- The Verge
- Published
- Nov 7, 2026 at 06:45 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10