SpaceX in reported talks over Boost Mobile acquisition or network access
Boost leases capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile, whose consent may be needed for SpaceX to use the network, The Washington Post reported.
SpaceX is considering buying EchoStar’s Boost Mobile or obtaining access to its network through negotiations that could enable a US mobile service of its own, according to The Washington Post. The newspaper cited people familiar with the discussions.
Elon Musk has taken a direct role in the talks, including meeting EchoStar chairman Charlie Ergen, the Post reported. Neither company responded to requests for comment.
Boost relies on leased capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile rather than operating its own cell tower network. The Post said SpaceX might need both carriers’ permission because such leases generally require carrier approval before access can be transferred.
The negotiations align with SpaceX’s plans for Starlink Mobile, which would link satellite connections and ground equipment to compete against AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. SpaceX is seeking sites for that equipment across the US. T-Mobile already offers the first US satellite-to-phone service from SpaceX.
SpaceX has also pursued spectrum purchases. In October, it agreed to acquire low-band spectrum from investment firm Grain Management for around US$8 billion.
An earlier agreement with EchoStar, reached in September 2025, covered AWS-4 and H-block spectrum licenses for about US$17 billion in cash and stock. That arrangement also included expected access for Boost customers to a planned SpaceX satellite-to-phone service.
