VZ · News · 20261104N

Competition and New Entrants

VERIZON COMMUNICATIONS INC · 2026-11-04 · Importance 40 · Surprise 42

SpaceX is moving toward becoming a fourth major U.S. wireless carrier through a multiyear Qualcomm agreement to use Qualcomm’s Dragonwing cellular infrastructure platforms in Starlink Mobile base stations. Deployment is planned to begin in 2027, with SpaceX targeting tens of thousands of cell sites; its terrestrial 5G network is intended to complement Starlink’s satellite system. The reporting says the ground network could increase competition with Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile, following SpaceX’s acquisition of nationwide 800 MHz spectrum rights. The companies did not disclose the deal’s financial value or details of the tower infrastructure required.

Key facts

• Verizon opposed higher-power Starlink direct-to-cell operations along with AT&T. source
• SpaceX's ground-based stations are expected to let it better compete with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. source
• SpaceX is attempting to rival Verizon by combining satellite communication with traditional cellular infrastructure. source
• Verizon's EBITDA margin was 37.4%, compared with AT&T's 35.7% and T-Mobile's 37.7%. source