SpaceX gets US regulatory approval for global mobile service
SpaceX has received regulatory approval from the United States Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to operate internationally, marking a major milestone in turning its satellite constellation into a global mobile carrier network.
Next-generation orbital network
The green light allows Starlink Mobile to provide voice and data services far beyond American borders. The direct-to-cell service currently operates in the United States through a partnership with carrier T-Mobile, focusing initially on eliminating dead zones by allowing standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites in remote locations or during emergencies.
SpaceX plans to deploy a new generation of satellites configured to function as orbital cell towers capable of transmitting 5G-grade signals. Company representatives noted that the upcoming technology will provide download speeds of up to 150 Mbps.
Direct competition with legacy carriers
Although SpaceX collaborates with T-Mobile domestically, company leadership has not ruled out positioning Starlink Mobile as a direct challenger to traditional global telecommunications operators.
Industry analysts emphasize that global roaming represents the service’s primary competitive advantage. Leveraging the vast low-Earth orbit satellite network, a single mobile subscription could eventually deliver continuous cellular access anywhere in the world.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
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