SpaceX has acquired up to 14MHz of paired spectrum in the 800MHz band across the United States as it seeks to transform Starlink into a more comprehensive mobile connectivity service, technology publication GSMArena reported.
The spectrum was acquired from Grain Management and is expected to strengthen Starlink’s existing satellite network. The move could help SpaceX broaden mobile coverage beyond outdoor and remote areas, extending connectivity to indoor locations as well.
Elon Musk described the acquisition as “the last critical piece of the spectrum puzzle” required for SpaceX to deliver full phone coverage throughout the United States.
The transaction is still awaiting regulatory approval.
Satellite and Terrestrial Networks to Operate Together
SpaceX aims to integrate its satellite-to-mobile network with ground-based telecommunications infrastructure to expand mobile coverage across a wider range of locations.
Under this strategy, Starlink satellites would deliver connectivity in outdoor locations, especially rural and poorly served areas. Meanwhile, the newly acquired 800MHz spectrum is expected to enhance signal availability and reception indoors.
The company also intends to utilise its existing global spectrum in the 2GHz mid-band range to provide faster speeds and greater network capacity across the United States.
Small ground-based cellular stations, known as femtocells, are also expected to be incorporated into the proposed 5G network. Using the 800MHz frequency band could allow the service to connect with smartphones already equipped to support that spectrum.
SpaceX said it planned to introduce an adaptable network design that brings together its satellite constellation and terrestrial infrastructure, enabling devices to remain connected across a variety of environments.
Starlink Mobile May Rival Major US Wireless Carriers
If the plan moves forward, Starlink Mobile could become a more direct competitor to major US wireless providers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.
Satellite-based connectivity could offer significant benefits in rural communities and other areas where traditional cellular networks provide limited service.
According to the report, SpaceX has secured approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deploy 15,000 next-generation satellites for the service.
However, the actual improvements in coverage and network performance will depend on the final rollout, the required regulatory clearances, and the effectiveness of integrating satellite technology with ground-based infrastructure.
The Spectrum Was Previously Owned by T-Mobile
The newly acquired spectrum was originally owned by T-Mobile, which transferred it to Grain Management in August through a deal involving the exchange of spectrum licences.
As part of the agreement, Grain Management exchanged its 600MHz spectrum licences with T-Mobile and made a cash payment of $2.9 billion.
SpaceX’s purchase of the 800MHz spectrum aims to expand the frequency resources needed to support its planned mobile network.
This acquisition represents another milestone in SpaceX’s strategy to integrate satellite technology with traditional mobile network infrastructure. However, the proposed nationwide service remains subject to regulatory approval and further network deployment.
