Science & Tech · Space · 1 day ago
SpaceX Buys Spectrum to Expand Starlink Into U.S. Mobile Service
SpaceX is moving toward offering mobile phone service across the United States through its Starlink network.
It acquired spectrum in the 800MHz band from Grain Management, but still needs final regulatory approval for the purchase.
SpaceX says the band can help its signal reach indoors, and most current smartphones already support it.
The company also plans to use its 2GHz spectrum and satellites for higher-capacity coverage, particularly outdoors.
The FCC approved SpaceX’s application to launch 15,000 next-generation satellites and waived a requirement for a spectrum-leasing agreement with a ground-based carrier.
SpaceX says it will combine the satellites with ground equipment to connect devices, including in areas with limited cellular service.
If the spectrum purchase receives final approval, SpaceX aims to compete directly with AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.
SpaceX is moving toward offering mobile service in the United States by combining Starlink satellites with newly acquired 800MHz spectrum.
The company acquired up to 14MHz of paired spectrum nationwide from Grain Management, subject to regulatory approval.
The FCC approved SpaceX’s application to deploy 15,000 next-generation Starlink Mobile satellites optimized for 2GHz spectrum.
SpaceX says the 800MHz spectrum will help provide indoor coverage, while satellites and 2GHz spectrum will support coverage and capacity outdoors.
The planned service would compete with AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.
- Who
- SpaceX, through its Starlink Mobile service.
- What
- SpaceX is combining satellite service with 800MHz spectrum to pursue mobile coverage in the United States.
- When
- SpaceX announced the developments this week; the articles were published on October 9, 2026.
- Where
- Nationwide in the United States, with the satellite constellation planned to operate globally.
- Why
- SpaceX says the spectrum fills a remaining technical gap and will help provide phone coverage indoors and in areas with limited cellular service.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
the last critical piece of the spectrum puzzle needed for SpaceX to provide complete phone coverage in America
deliver more than 100 times the bandwidth
a reliable service indoors, outdoors, in cellular dead zones, and everywhere in between
T-Mobile sold the 800MHz spectrum to Grain Management in exchange for 600MHz spectrum licenses and $2.9 billion in cash.
SpaceX announced its spectrum acquisition and other steps toward offering U.S. mobile service.
The FCC approved SpaceX’s application to deploy 15,000 next-generation satellites optimized for 2GHz spectrum.
- Spectrum band
- 800MHz
- Spectrum acquired
- Up to 14MHz of paired spectrum
- Seller
- Grain Management
- Satellite approval
- FCC approval to deploy 15,000 next-generation satellites
- Existing mid-band spectrum
- 2GHz
- Planned competitors
- AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile
Sources
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