Official
6 publications · October 7, 2026
FCC approves SpaceX plan to launch 15,000 Starlink Mobile satellites
Key points
- The FCC has approved SpaceX's application to launch and operate 15,000 next-generation satellites for Starlink Mobile.
- The approval includes a waiver allowing SpaceX to sell satellite wireless service without leasing spectrum from a terrestrial carrier.
- The satellites are cleared to use spectrum acquired from EchoStar and frequencies from T-Mobile.
- SpaceX says the constellation will deliver speeds of up to 150Mbps per user.
Summary
(AI)
The FCC approval, reported by all three outlets on October 7, 2026, covers both the satellite deployment and a spectrum waiver. The waiver is notable because it removes a prior requirement to partner with a ground-based carrier for spectrum access, a condition that had shaped earlier Starlink-to-phone arrangements such as the existing T-Mobile deal.
The 150Mbps speed figure comes from SpaceX’s own claims, not from independent testing or FCC findings. Coverage does not indicate when launches will begin or when consumer service will be available.
Sources
7 articles from 6 publications
