SpaceX Secures Spectrum Deal

SpaceX agreed to acquire a nationwide portfolio of paired 800 MHz airwaves from Grain Management, in a deal valued at about $8 billion. The company plans to pair satellite-to-phone service with a ground network, making Starlink Mobile a potential rival to major U.S. wireless carriers. Starlink’s current direct-to-phone service is mainly suited to remote areas or emergencies. Reliable coverage in cities would also require cell sites and fiber links. SpaceX says the spectrum fills a key gap and will help provide complete phone coverage in America. Verizon and other carrier executives say satellite service is not a viable near-term rival. The purchase still needs FCC approval.