SpaceX eyes Starlink revenue from phone, Stargaze service: source

SpaceX is exploring new revenue streams for its Starlink satellite internet business, including potential plans for a mobile device and a space-tracking service, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The company, which generated an estimated US$8 billion profit last year, relies heavily on Starlink, which accounts for up to 80% of its revenue.

Elon Musk has previously mentioned the possibility of a Starlink-connected phone, though SpaceX has clarified it is not currently developing such a device.

The company has also filed patents related to direct-to-device connectivity and is expanding its satellite constellation with larger launches, aiming to deliver global cellular coverage.

Additionally, SpaceX announced a new product called Stargaze, designed to monitor satellite traffic in Earth’s lower orbit, which could be of interest to government agencies.

SpaceX did not respond to requests for comment.

🔗 Source: Reuters

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A Starlink phone idea ties to a multibillion-dollar push for wider connectivity

SpaceX is focusing on direct-to-device (D2D) technology that links ordinary phones to satellites without traditional cell towers. The plan leans on an agreement to buy EchoStar’s AWS-4 and H-block spectrum licenses (wireless airwaves used to carry mobile signals) in a deal valued at about $17 billion. SpaceX also agreed to cover about $2 billion in EchoStar debt interest payments through November 2027 1.
The spectrum package includes the AWS-4 band, which has been described as well-suited for D2D services. If SpaceX secures it, Starlink could expand beyond early D2D service that currently supports text messaging, emergency alerts and certain apps in a handful of countries 2.
SpaceX is reportedly working with chip vendors to build D2D support into the silicon of future phones. Tests are slated to begin by late 2026 3.

SpaceX and D2D raise pressure in the U.S. telecom market

Wider satellite-backed cellular coverage could shake up the U.S. mobile market in the near term.
When the $17 billion spectrum deal surfaced, shares of T-Mobile US fell 5%. AT&T and Verizon each dropped 4% as investors worried that Starlink could sharpen competition in U.S. telecom 1.
The shift could weaken the outlook for a fourth national wireless carrier while heating up the D2D race. SpaceX already works with T-Mobile US, and AT&T and Verizon have backed satellite rival AST SpaceMobile (a company building satellites designed to connect directly to standard smartphones) 1.