SpaceX declares Starlink Mobile as major US carrier

SpaceX officially confirms Starlink Mobile will become a major carrier in the US, competing with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

“This prime low-band spectrum addresses one of the key remaining technical gaps that will pave the way for Starlink Mobile to become a major mobile carrier in the US”

Acquiring spectrum from Grain Management

SpaceX acquired up to 14 megahertz of paired spectrum from Grain Management, a private investment firm that bought the spectrum from T-Mobile.

Starlink Mobile uses satellite and terrestrial networks

Starlink Mobile will use next-generation satellites and an advanced terrestrial deployment to offer cellular coverage.

“This new low-band spectrum will provide a coverage layer that ensures Starlink Mobile's signal penetrates through obstacles, such as walls”

Spectrum cleared by FCC for Starlink Mobile

The Federal Communications Commission cleared Grain to take over the 817 to 824MHz and 862 to 869MHz bands for Starlink Mobile.

Starlink Mobile targets indoor coverage

Starlink Mobile aims to provide service to customers' devices even when they are in buildings, penetrating through walls and obstacles.

“Critically, most existing mobile devices already support this underused band”

Starlink Mobile launches in November 2027

SpaceX can only begin using the EchoStar spectrum once the deal closes in November 2027.

T-Mobile's stance on Starlink Mobile

T-Mobile's outgoing CFO dismissed SpaceX's plan as laughable, while T-Mobile is currently the exclusive US provider of Starlink Mobile.

“T-Mobile's outgoing CFO dismissed SpaceX's plan as laughable”

Starlink Mobile's launch timeline uncertain

Starlink Mobile's launch as a retail wireless carrier remains unclear due to time needed for chipsets and regulatory approvals.