SpaceX is widely expected to expand beyond its current role as a satellite internet partner and enter the mobile network business, fueled by a major new acquisition of wireless spectrum. The company finalized a deal with EchoStar, the parent company of Dish Network, to purchase $17 billion worth of spectrum—critical radio frequencies used for wireless communication. This move has sparked speculation that SpaceX is preparing to launch its own 5G network powered by Starlink satellites, aiming to deliver high-speed mobile connectivity directly to phones worldwide. Currently, Starlink is used primarily for broadband internet in remote or underserved areas, with limited functionality such as text messaging and upcoming voice calls. But with the new spectrum, Elon Musk has signaled a broader vision. Speaking on the All-In Podcast, he said the acquisition would enable “high-bandwidth connectivity” from satellites to consumer devices, allowing users to stream videos anywhere—on their phones, even in the middle of the ocean or remote wilderness. Musk acknowledged a two-year timeline for deployment, a caveat that should be taken with caution given his history of ambitious promises. Still, the timeline offers a rare glimpse into SpaceX’s long-term strategy. The goal is to transform Starlink from a backup or emergency connectivity solution into a full-fledged mobile network capable of handling everyday smartphone use. While SpaceX may not be able to compete with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in dense urban areas—where existing networks have massive infrastructure and capacity advantages—the company’s strategy may rely on a different approach. Musk didn’t rule out the possibility of acquiring a major mobile carrier in the future, saying such a move “is not out of the question.” That could be a more efficient path to nationwide coverage than building from scratch. Regulatory hurdles may not be a major obstacle. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee, has praised the spectrum deal as a “potential game changer” for mobile networks, suggesting a favorable stance toward SpaceX’s ambitions. With the current administration showing little appetite for aggressive antitrust enforcement in telecom, a major acquisition could face minimal resistance. For now, the focus remains on leveraging the new spectrum to deliver faster, more reliable satellite-based mobile internet. Whether SpaceX will truly become a major player in the U.S. wireless market remains to be seen—but the signs are pointing toward a bold new chapter in its mission to connect the planet.