Gwynne Shotwell of SpaceX plans to compete directly with major US wireless carriers by building a terrestrial mobile network.
SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell stated during a recent earnings call that the company intends to build a terrestrial mobile network to compete head-to-head with major US carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. By leveraging the spectrum acquired from EchoStar and next-generation V2 satellites, SpaceX aims to provide a high-bandwidth mobile service that eliminates cellular dead zones. Shotwell explained that the company plans to use small, ground-based stations integrated into existing Starlink broadband dishes. This hybrid satellite and terrestrial approach allows SpaceX to provide connectivity directly to cellphones on the ground without the massive capital expenditures required for traditional cell towers. Elon Musk noted that these dishes, located on roofs, offer a clear view for providing high-bandwidth connectivity. SpaceX expects to launch the V2 satellites next year, with full service beginning near the end of 2027. The company aims to capture a significant portion of the $600 billion annual US wireless market.