SpaceX picks Qualcomm to supply gear for Starlink Mobile 5G network
Key points
- SpaceX has signed a multi-year deal with Qualcomm to supply the equipment for Starlink Mobile's cellular network, according to Neowin.
- Qualcomm will provide base station infrastructure, including radio and baseband technology, for Starlink's US ground-based 5G network, RCR Wireless reports.
- Deployment is due in 2027.
- The network is meant to compete with Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile, per PhoneArena and Neowin.
- RCR Wireless says analysts see an open RAN opportunity but still have questions about the plan.
SpaceX has chosen Qualcomm to supply the equipment for Starlink Mobile, its planned cellular service in the US. Neowin reports the two companies have struck a multi-year deal covering cellular base station infrastructure. Base stations are the cell towers’ radio equipment that connect phones to the network.
RCR Wireless says Qualcomm will provide radio and baseband technology for Starlink’s US terrestrial 5G network. Terrestrial means ground-based, as opposed to Starlink’s satellites. Deployment is due in 2027. PhoneArena and Neowin both frame the network as a challenge to Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile, and Android Headlines calls the deal a big step toward Starlink Mobile becoming a real carrier.
RCR Wireless adds that analysts see an opening for open RAN, a design that lets carriers mix radio equipment from different vendors instead of buying a single supplier’s package. The same analysts still have questions about the plan.
Sources
