SpaceX Accelerates Starlink’s Direct-to-Phone Ambitions with $17B Spectrum Deal

Elon Musk's SpaceX has secured a $17 billion spectrum acquisition from EchoStar, marking a pivotal step in Starlink's plan to deliver satellite internet directly to smartphones. The deal grants access to the H-block segment of the Advanced Wireless Services spectrum, a critical resource for expanding high-bandwidth connectivity.

While 657 of Starlink's 8,100 satellites are already equipped for direct-to-device communication, Musk acknowledges a two-year delay for full service rollout due to the need for new phone chipsets. Current partnerships with T-Mobile enable satellite SMS, with plans to extend support to third-party apps soon.

The MOVE intensifies competition in the satellite internet race, with Amazon's Kuiper project looming as a key rival. Spectrum scarcity remains a hurdle, as traditional carriers like AT&T and Verizon dominate U.S. allocations.