Starlink Mobile Could Soon Take Its Satellite Phone Service Global

SpaceX is taking a major step toward turning Starlink into a global mobile network after the U.S. Federal Communications Commission granted the company authority to provide international telecommunications services.

According to reports, the approval gives Starlink Mobile both global facilities-based and resale authority, clearing an important regulatory hurdle for expanding the service beyond the U.S. Starlink currently provides direct-to-cell connectivity in the U.S. through T-Mobile's T-Satellite service, primarily targeting areas where conventional cellular coverage is unavailable.

But SpaceX has much bigger ambitions. The company is developing next-generation satellites designed to operate more like cellular towers in orbit. SpaceX says the upgraded system could eventually deliver download speeds of up to 150 Mbps directly to smartphones, potentially supporting applications that go well beyond basic messaging and emergency connectivity.

Global roaming is expected to be one of Starlink Mobile's biggest selling points. Instead of relying entirely on local towers, the service could use SpaceX's satellite constellation to maintain connectivity across remote and underserved regions. SpaceX CFO Bret Johnsen has identified eliminating dead zones and enabling native global roaming as key parts of the company's mobile strategy.

SpaceX is already building international partnerships. The company recently announced a deal with Japan's KDDI for Starlink Mobile V2, with SpaceX claiming the new system will deliver 100 times the data density of earlier versions and eventually support phone calls, apps and video streaming directly through satellites.

The move could eventually put Starlink in more direct competition with traditional wireless operators. However, carriers including T-Mobile and AT&T have argued that satellite networks still face major capacity limitations compared with dense terrestrial networks, particularly in populated areas.