Gerber Kawasaki CEO Suggests Starlink Could Challenge iPhone with AI Phone
Quick Look
- Ross Gerber proposed Starlink could create an AI-first phone with satellite connectivity and long battery life.
- Google Pixel users countered, stating their phones already offer similar AI features.
- Apple maintains dominant market share despite AI strategy scrutiny.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Ross Gerber suggested Starlink could develop an AI-first phone, sparking debate with Google Pixel users who claim their devices already offer similar capabilities. Apple remains the dominant smartphone vendor.
Tesla bull and CEO of Gerber Kawasaki, Ross Gerber has suggested that Elon Musk’s Starlink could one day launch a device which will be capable of challenging Apple’s iPhone dominance, according to a repot by Benzinga. But users quickly countered him saying Google Pixel smartphones already deliver much of that functionality. In post on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Gerber wrote that Starlink has an opportunity to create “truly great AI phone” built around satellite connectivity, exceptional battery life, and an AI-first operating system. “Tell the phone what you want it to do and it does it for you,” he said, before asking: “Who will make a real AI phone first?”
Google Pixel users push back
When one pointed out that Google Pixel smartphones already offer Gemini-powered voice commands and satellite communication features, Gerber dismissed the claim. “You can tell if you want a pizza from Prince Street at 6 p.m. and it happens? No,” he replied. Pixel owners argued that Gemini can already handle most of the workflow Gerber described — opening food delivery apps, locating restaurants, adding items to a cart, and navigating the ordering process. The only step requiring user input is payment authorization, a safeguard against unintended purchases.
Google’s AI-first pixel strategy
Google has heavily promoted AI across its latest Pixel lineup. The Pixel 10, powered by the Tensor G5 chip, runs advanced Gemini AI experiences directly on-device. Features include:
Magic Cue app-aware assistance
Real-time language translation
Gemini Live visual guidance
AI-powered writing tools
Apple’s market dominance
The debate comes as Apple faces scrutiny over its AI strategy following mixed reactions to recent Siri AI announcements. Despite this, Apple remains the dominant smartphone vendor in the U.S., holding 61.51% market share in May 2026, compared with Samsung’s 20.74% and Google’s 3.86%. Apple reported $56.99 billion in iPhone revenue for its fiscal second quarter, up from $46.84 billion a year earlier, underscoring its continued strength in the market.
Musk’s Starlink phone hints
Musk himself hinted earlier this year that a Starlink smartphone could eventually emerge, potentially leveraging satellite connectivity and AI integration. While speculative, such a device could align with Musk’s broader vision of AI-driven consumer hardware.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Starlink could launch a satellite-connected AI phone.
Speculative · Long term
Open Questions
- Will Starlink actually develop a smartphone?
- Can Starlink's AI phone truly compete with Apple and Google?
- What specific AI advancements would Starlink offer?