SpaceX has reportedly held talks with EchoStar, the parent company of Boost Mobile, about a possible deal that could help Starlink Mobile operate as a full-fledged US carrier. The discussions could lead to SpaceX buying Boost outright or gaining access to its network, according to a report. Elon Musk also met EchoStar chairman Charlie Ergen in October.
Boost leases network capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile. Access to those networks could help SpaceX provide service through conventional cell towers, including indoors and in cities where satellite coverage is currently weaker. SpaceX has also bought more spectrum as it pursues its mobile plans.
The arrangement may face a hurdle: network lease agreements typically cannot be transferred to a new owner without the host carrier’s consent. AT&T and T-Mobile may therefore need to approve a service offered through Boost. Musk reportedly sought network access from Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile, but all three declined.
SpaceX announced plans to enter the US telecom market in August. On a recent earnings call, CFO Bret Johnsen said the company aims to become a major mobile carrier in the United States. SpaceX reportedly sees a developed mobile network as a potential source of revenue from its more than 12,000 satellites.
Verizon’s CEO has estimated that building the necessary infrastructure could take SpaceX four to six years, while Musk has suggested roughly half that time. Verizon and EchoStar declined to comment on the report; SpaceX, AT&T and T-Mobile did not respond.
Sources: GSMArena.