T · News · 20261102N

Competition and New Entrants

AT&T INC. · 2026-11-02 · Importance 26 · Surprise 24

SpaceX is reportedly in talks with EchoStar to acquire Boost Mobile or obtain access to its network as it develops Starlink Mobile, a hybrid satellite-and-terrestrial wireless service that could compete with AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. Boost Mobile has 7.38 million wireless subscribers and leases network capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile. Reports say the three major carriers rejected SpaceX’s requests to use their networks for its own mobile service; any transfer of Boost’s network-leasing agreements may require carrier consent. The potential deal could give SpaceX a terrestrial-network foothold alongside its satellite service, though the reported discussions have not established a final transaction.

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