SpaceX joins forces with Qualcomm to build Starlink Mobile 5G network

Qualcomm and SpaceX have teamed up to develop a Starlink Mobile 5G network that will include terrestrial base stations. The partnership aims to enhance coverage, capacity, and spectral efficiency, potentially allowing the network to serve more traffic efficiently.

According to Qualcomm, these base stations will feature "designed to improve coverage, capacity and spectral efficiency, helping the network serve more traffic efficiently." The multi-year agreement will see Qualcomm's tech used in tens of thousands of sites, with the rollout scheduled to commence in 2027.

Elon Musk has praised Qualcomm's technology, stating that "at last there will be one network with good signal everywhere!" However, analysts suggest that securing spectrum and tower leases, along with tower leases, will be more crucial for Starlink Mobile's success than the Qualcomm partnership. The acquisition of EchoStar spectrum assets and settlements with tower companies could be a more straightforward path to achieving these goals, according to telecoms analyst Tim Farrar.

While some analysts remain optimistic about Starlink Mobile's potential to become a major player in the mobile industry, others caution that the company faces significant challenges. These include building the necessary terrestrial network, establishing ground-based infrastructure, and competing with established mobile providers.

Even Elon Musk's claim that Starlink Mobile will provide "good signal everywhere" remains unproven, as Ookla's recent research indicates that the network's performance still lags behind terrestrial networks.