SpaceX buys frequencies to develop Starlink mobile network

The acquired license portfolio includes frequencies in the 800 MHz band (up to 14 MHz of paired spectrum) across the United States. SpaceX noted that low frequencies make it possible to transmit signals over long distances and better provide coverage inside buildings by penetrating building structures. The enterprise expects to combine the Starlink satellite constellation with terrestrial infrastructure to provide connectivity to standard smartphones without additional satellite equipment.

"This is the critical final piece of spectrum SpaceX needs to achieve full phone coverage across America," Elon Musk said. To complete the transaction, the parties must obtain approval from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Previously, the company also acquired frequencies in the 2 GHz band from EchoStar.

In addition, the regulator FCC has permitted SpaceX to deploy a total of 15,000 second-generation Starlink satellites. According to the company, their bandwidth will be more than 100 times higher than that of previous-generation spacecraft. Amid the news about plans to create the Starlink Mobile network, the combined market capitalization of operators Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile dropped by approximately $62 billion, the Financial Times reports.