# SpaceX picks Qualcomm for Starlink Mobile 5G network

> SpaceX has chosen Qualcomm to build the ground infrastructure for its planned US mobile service, with nationwide rollout expected to begin in 2027.
- Title: SpaceX picks Qualcomm for Starlink Mobile 5G network
- Summary: SpaceX has chosen Qualcomm to build the ground infrastructure for its planned US mobile service, with nationwide rollout expected to begin in 2027. SpaceX…
- Keywords: spacex, qualcomm, starlink mobile, 5g network, ground infrastructure, mobile service, The Next Web
- Source: The Next Web — https://thenextweb.com/news/spacex-qualcomm-starlink-mobile-5g-network
- Author: Ana-Maria Stanciuc
- Published: 2026-11-04T14:07:03+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: spacex, qualcomm, starlink mobile, 5g network, ground infrastructure, mobile service, technology, startups
## 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.
## Key takeaway

SpaceX selected Qualcomm to supply 5G technology for Starlink Mobile, planning to deploy tens of thousands of ground sites across the US starting in 2027.