SpaceX Reportedly Explores Buying Boost Mobile or Using Its Network

SpaceX has reportedly held talks with EchoStar, the parent company of Boost Mobile, about buying Boost Mobile outright or gaining access to its cell network. The discussions, first reported by The Washington Post, could give SpaceX a path to launch what the report describes as its own signature wireless service. No deal has been confirmed.

Potential paths to a mobile service

According to Washington Post sources, the deal could take the form of SpaceX acquiring Boost Mobile or gaining access to its cell network. Boost Mobile's network is leased from AT&T and T-Mobile, so SpaceX's potential mobile service would need approval from those major carriers.

A possible hitch

The report says there could be a major hitch because SpaceX's potential mobile service would need the green light from AT&T and T-Mobile. The Washington Post also reported that major cell companies, including AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, have already turned down Musk for access to their cell networks in order to launch a separate SpaceX service.

Recent steps toward carrier ambitions

The talks should not be surprising given SpaceX's recent dealings. Last year, SpaceX acquired $2.6 billion worth of spectrum licenses from EchoStar, which would be used to improve its Starlink network's 5G connections. More recently, Starlink confirmed plans to become a major mobile carrier in the U.S. and made another major acquisition in hopes of achieving that goal.

Sources: Engadget