SpaceX Could Make Boost Mobile Part of Its Carrier Plans
Possible Boost Mobile deal
Elon Musk discussed the potential agreement last month with Charlie Ergen, chairman of EchoStar, Boost Mobile’s parent company. SpaceX has said it wants Starlink to become a major mobile carrier.
Network approvals may matter
Boost Mobile currently operates using networks from T-Mobile and AT&T. SpaceX may need permission from those carriers to provide service through Boost’s network. SpaceX and Boost Mobile did not immediately respond to The Verge’s request for comment.
SpaceX expands mobile effort
SpaceX has been developing a mobile service that would combine its satellite-to-mobile constellation with a terrestrial network. Last year, it acquired wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar. More recently, SpaceX bought low-band spectrum licenses that could help Starlink Mobile signals reach inside buildings. Bloomberg reported last month that the company was in talks to access at least 80,000 cell sites in the United States.
Key points
- SpaceX has reportedly discussed acquiring Boost Mobile or accessing its network.
- Musk spoke about a possible agreement with EchoStar chairman Charlie Ergen last month.
- Boost Mobile’s network currently relies on T-Mobile and AT&T.
- SpaceX is also pursuing spectrum licenses and access to US cell sites.