SpaceX took steps to turn Starlink into a mobile operator
Quick Look
- SpaceX announced that it has reached an agreement to purchase a portfolio of low-band spectrum licenses that can be used throughout the United States.
- The agreement will enable Starlink to become a major mobile operator in the US and aims to combine satellite mobile phone connectivity with an advanced terrestrial network.
- Elon Musk has described this spectrum as the last critical piece SpaceX needs to provide uninterrupted telephone coverage in the United States.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
SpaceX is working to purchase low-band spectrum licenses to provide direct connectivity to mobile phones via its Starlink satellite internet service. This technology aims to provide communication, especially in geographically difficult to reach areas.
SpaceX announced that it has reached an agreement to purchase a portfolio of low-band spectrum licenses that can be used throughout the US.
In the statement made by the company, it was stated that the agreement will pave the way for Starlink to become a major mobile operator in the USA.
In the statement, it was noted that after receiving the approval of the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), SpaceX will combine its connection service to mobile phones via satellite with an advanced terrestrial network that will enable devices to connect anywhere.
SpaceX Chief Executive (CEO) Elon Musk also said in his post on the US-based X social media platform, "This is the last critical piece of the spectrum required for SpaceX to provide uninterrupted phone coverage in the USA." he said.
Following SpaceX's announcement, shares of AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, major US mobile communications operators, fell in post-market transactions.
Open Questions
- What is the cost of the purchased spectrum portfolio?
- When will FCC approval be received?
- Which mobile operator will be cooperated with?
