SpaceX Reportedly Eyes Boost Mobile to Build a Hybrid Satellite-Cell Network

SpaceX is looking to buy Boost Mobile from EchoStar, according to The Washington Post, TechCrunch reports. A deal would help SpaceX build a hybrid cellular-satellite network that could lift it into fourth place among US wireless providers. Elon Musk reportedly spoke directly with EchoStar chairman Charlie Ergen in October; EchoStar has about 7.5 million customers across Boost Mobile and Gen Mobile. The move builds on what SpaceX already has: satellite access for T-Mobile subscribers since 2024 and $17 billion of wireless spectrum bought from EchoStar last year. Boost covers most of the 48 contiguous states and leases capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile, which might need to approve a transfer; Musk had approached AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon about network capacity, and all three said no. The prize is simple: Starlink outdoors, cell towers where satellite signals cannot reach. That is how you take on the big three.