Starlink Mobile to Become a Full Mobile Carrier: SpaceX to Start Building a 5G Network in 2027
Amul Info ·
SpaceX has picked Qualcomm as its partner to build a terrestrial 5G network in the US, with equipment for tens of thousands of base stations.
SpaceX has chosen Qualcomm Technologies as its partner to build a terrestrial 5G network in the United States. Qualcomm will supply hardware and software for tens of thousands of base stations, with deployment due to begin in 2027. The new infrastructure will complement Starlink Mobile’s satellite service and combine the two network types into a single system.
The base stations will run on Qualcomm’s Dragonwing QRU100 and QDU100 platforms. The first handles radio communication, and the second processes transmitted and received signals. The radio units will have 64 transmit and receive channels each (64T64R), which should raise capacity, improve coverage and make better use of spectrum.
Qualcomm did not disclose the contract’s value but called it the largest deal in the history of its 5G business. For the maker of Snapdragon processors, it is also a chance to strengthen its position in telecom infrastructure, where it will compete with Marvell, Broadcom and Intel.
With Starlink Mobile, SpaceX aims to compete with the largest US carriers: AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. According to Starlink Senior Vice President Michael Nicolls, combining satellite and terrestrial infrastructure will let users stay connected at home and on the road. The company is currently acquiring spectrum and negotiating with cell tower owners.
The network will support several frequency bands and roll out in phases. Qualcomm expects its solutions to cut base-station power use and maintenance costs. The 5G platform could also serve as a foundation for future 6G networks, which are expected to make wider use of artificial intelligence.