Elon Musk's SpaceX is on track to launch its own 5G network

SpaceX|Reuters

Elon Musk's SpaceX has signed a deal to buy wireless spectrum from US telecoms firm Ecostar for around $17 billion. The company plans to use the spectrum to connect Starlink to satellite-based internet as well as mobile networks. This major investment in the telecoms sector opens up the possibility of SpaceX launching its own 5G network in the future.

Currently, the US mobile network market is dominated by large companies such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Therefore, Musk wants to establish Starlink as a potential mobile operator in addition to a satellite Internet-based company. According to experts, if this initiative is implemented, people living in rural and remote areas will benefit the most.

According to the Washington Post report, Musk himself has indicated that the addition of the new wave will make it possible to "watch video on your phone from anywhere." As part of the agreement, Boost Mobile customers under Ecostar will also be covered by Starlink's "direct-to-cell" service. This will provide internet connectivity in areas outside of the conventional network. Acknowledged by Ecostar President Hamid Akhavan, Boost customers will receive satellite service faster and at a lower cost through this agreement.

SpaceX's current goal is to use new waves to connect Starlink satellites directly to mobile phones. If the initiative is successful, users in the future will not only have to rely on ground-based towers. In addition to making calls via satellite, they will also be able to stream video.

Incidentally, Starlink had jointly launched a satellite-based messaging service called 'T-Satellite' with T-Mobile. The service was available on a subscription basis. After signing a deal to purchase new spectrum, SpaceX has announced that it will launch data services this year. The company has said that it plans to add voice calling facilities soon.