SpaceX in talks to access 80,000 cell sites for new network
This may solidify the rocket and satellite giant’s path to build a fourth nationwide wireless carrier
SpaceX is reportedly in discussions with cellular infrastructure companies to lease a minimum of 80,000 cell sites nationwide, potentially solidifying its path toward establishing a fourth nationwide wireless carrier (<source a29970aa-1b3>). The talks include at least one major player, Crown Castle, which, alongside American Tower and Vertical Bridge Holdings, are among the largest owners of cellular towers (<source a29970aa-1b3>).
CEO Chris Hillabrant confirmed that SpaceX is discussing lease arrangements with various parties, including Crown Castle, Amazon, and other satellite-based telecom providers (<source a29970aa-1b3>). The potential deals could be valued in the billions, as SpaceX aims to create a standalone wireless carrier, thereby intensifying competition among existing providers (<source a29970aa-1b3>).
SpaceX has acquired low-band spectrum to complement its Starlink satellites, enabling direct mobile service to phones, further bolstering its mobile network infrastructure (<source a29970aa-1b3>). The market reacted positively to SpaceX's latest spectrum purchase, with tower companies' shares rising in anticipation of increased business opportunities from SpaceX's expansion plans (<source a29970aa-1b3>).
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