SpaceX picks Qualcomm for Starlink Mobile 5G network

SpaceX and Qualcomm partner on 5G

SpaceX has selected Qualcomm to supply technology powering the ground-based five G network behind Starlink Mobile, its planned US mobile service. Nationwide rollout is expected to begin in twenty twenty-seven.

Tens of thousands of sites planned

Over the multi-year deal, SpaceX plans to deploy tens of thousands of sites across the US. Each will use Qualcomm's Dragonwing platforms and software designed to handle the network's most time-sensitive operations.

Two chips power the network

The QRU one hundred will sit inside radio units mounted on each site, while the QDU one hundred will process signals behind them.

Combining satellites with ground towers

SpaceX is working towards a single network combining its satellites with terrestrial mobile towers. The Qualcomm partnership will help accelerate development of the base station design SpaceX is building itself.

“We shouldn't live in a time where phone calls are still dropping whether you're at home or on-the-go.”