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SpaceX eyes retail mobile service, could challenge Verizon and AT&T

Yahoo Finance AI18h ago3 min read
SpaceX eyes retail mobile service, could challenge Verizon and AT&T

Key takeaway

SpaceX is considering launching its own retail mobile service through Starlink, potentially competing directly with major U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Starlink is SpaceX's only profitable business, generating $11.38 billion(約1.8兆円) in 2025 revenue with $4.42 billion(約7100億円) in operating income, and operates a satellite network spanning 30 countries. By building its own mobile infrastructure instead of routing through carrier partners, SpaceX could leverage its low-cost satellite network to challenge the $1.6 trillion(約260兆円) U.S. communications industry.

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3 Key Points

  • What happened

    SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell told investors the company is considering launching a Starlink retail mobile product and building its own wireless communications infrastructure, according to Financial Times. This would put SpaceX in direct competition with T-Mobile US, Verizon Communications, and AT&T.

  • Why it matters

    Starlink is currently SpaceX's only profitable business unit, with 2025 revenue of $11.38 billion(約1.8兆円) and operating income of $4.42 billion(約7100億円). By operating its own retail mobile service, SpaceX could reach subscribers directly rather than through carrier partners like T-Mobile, while leveraging its existing satellite network to avoid costly physical infrastructure like poles and buried fiber lines that legacy carriers rely on.

  • What to watch

    Management identified a $740 billion(約120兆円) market opportunity for Starlink mobile services. Oppenheimer analysts project Starlink could grow its U.S. customer base to 15 million by 2030, up from over 10 million globally today—a significant leap that could pressure profit margins for incumbent carriers.

FAQ

How many Starlink customers does SpaceX have today?
Starlink serves 10.3 million customers across 30 countries and six continents as of the prospectus disclosure.
What is Starlink's current business structure for mobile services?
Starlink currently offers direct-to-cell connectivity in the U.S. through T-Mobile, using wireless spectrum licenses purchased from EchoStar. The company's satellite network includes more than 9,600 satellites in low-Earth orbit.
How much revenue did Starlink generate in 2025?
Starlink's Connectivity division had revenue of $11.38 billion(約1.8兆円) in 2025, with operating income of $4.42 billion(約7100億円). Revenue was up 49.8% from the previous year, and operating income jumped 120%.

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