SpaceX is getting more serious about becoming the fourth carrier the US needs
SpaceX apparently wants 80,000 cell sites, and it's in talks with at least one major provider.
via Android AuthorityReported by 2 outlets
SpaceX pursues deals for 80,000 ground towers to build out its US mobile network
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AI summary of the reporting below · Updated · How we work
SpaceX is seeking access to at least 80,000 cell sites across the United States as it prepares to launch Starlink Mobile, according to Bloomberg. The aerospace company is currently holding discussions with Crown Castle Inc., a major domestic infrastructure owner, in an effort to directly take on established national carriers Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. [1][2]
Securing those locations would provide SpaceX access to roughly half of the 158,500 active cell towers in the country. During an earnings call on Wednesday, Crown Castle CEO Chris Hillabrant declined to discuss specific customer arrangements when questioned about prospective partnerships with SpaceX, Amazon, or other satellite network operators. [1]
The ground expansion follows SpaceX's confirmation earlier this year that it plans to launch a mobile network service, alongside recent spectrum acquisitions designed to strengthen indoor cellular coverage. Tapping into roughly 80,000 physical towers would rapidly put Starlink Mobile on comparable physical footing with rivals like T-Mobile, which claimed over 82,000 towers last year. [2]
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SpaceX’s mobile carrier push reportedly involves tapping into 80,000 cell sites
SpaceX is planning to access at least 80,000 cell sites as part of efforts to compete directly with Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, according to a report from Bloomberg. Sources tell the publication that SpaceX is in talks with Crown Castle Inc., one of the nation's largest cell tower owners. The move would give SpaceX access…
via The Verge