SpaceX reportedly weighs launching mobile service through Boost Mobile
US space company SpaceX has reportedly discussed a deal with mobile carrier Boost Mobile to launch its own wireless service. The arrangement could involve buying Boost Mobile or gaining access to its network.
SpaceX, the Elon Musk-owned space company behind the Starlink satellite internet service, is considering launching its own mobile phone service in the United States through budget carrier Boost Mobile, The Verge reported on 2 November, citing the Washington Post. The move would fit SpaceX's stated aim of making Starlink a major mobile carrier.
According to the newspaper, the deal could see SpaceX either acquire Boost Mobile or obtain access to its network. Musk reportedly discussed the possible agreement last month with Charlie Ergen, chairman of EchoStar, the parent company of Boost Mobile.
Approval from other carriers may be needed
Boost Mobile's network currently runs on infrastructure from T-Mobile and AT&T. As a result, SpaceX may need permission from both carriers before it can launch a service. Neither SpaceX nor Boost Mobile responded immediately to The Verge's request for comment.
SpaceX's mobile push
In recent months SpaceX has stepped up work on its mobile service, which is set to combine a satellite-to-mobile constellation with a terrestrial network. Last year the company acquired wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar, and it has recently bought a portfolio of low-band spectrum licenses that could help Starlink Mobile's signal penetrate buildings.
Last month, Bloomberg reported that SpaceX is in talks to gain access to at least 80,000 cell sites in the US.
