SpaceX says Starlink is set to become a "major mobile carrier" after spectrum deal

October 9, 2026 / 1:00 PM EDT / CBS News

SpaceX says Starlink is set to become a "major mobile carrier" after spectrum deal

TL;DR

  • SpaceX's Starlink business will acquire radio airwave licenses to provide cellular service inside buildings.
  • The company aims to become a major mobile carrier in the U.S. with this acquisition.
  • The spectrum purchase from Grain Management requires FCC approval.
  • Low-frequency radio spectrum can penetrate walls, addressing a signal issue for satellite services.
  • Starlink Mobile has FCC approval to launch 15,000 satellites transmitting in the 2 GHz band for direct connection to mobile phones.
  • The deal caused telecom company shares (T-Mobile, AT&T) to decline.