SpaceX strikes $17B deal to buy EchoStar’s spectrum for Starlink’s direct-to-phone service

Elon mask contains spacex Agree To obtain 50mHz wireless spectrum and mobile satellite service spectrum license for use on the Starlink Satellite Network.

Ekoster will sell its AWS -4 and H -Block Spectrum licenses $ 8.5 billion cash and $ 8.5 billion SpaceX stock. SpaceX says this agreement will allow it to develop and deploy its “Direct to Cell” constellation, which claims that broadband-speed Internet access can provide internet access to mobile phones around the world. In cash, the $ 2 billion will be paid directly to the Debt, directed by Eksther.

SpaceX last year Federal Communication Commission has received approval As a supplier, with T-Mobile to proceed with the plans to supply the phone version from the straight from the Satellite Internet service. This spectrum purchase manages SpaceX more freedom without relying on other network suppliers.

Specifically, SpaceX says the new spectrum will enable “optimized 5G protocol” in its direct phone service, once the next line of the satellite is launched. This agreement gives ecoster customers access to Sterlink’s direct phone service to mobile service.

This deal was operated under significant pressure from the FCC, which began investigating the use of ekostar spectrum holdings In MayAfter Public Encouraction from SpaceXThe According to BloombergPresident Trump has personally called Ecostar CEO Charlie Erzen to sell spectrum licenses to the next week. August 26, ekoster $ 23 billion has been sold The value of the spectrum license on the AT&T.

In a statement, Ecusta said that it believes that today’s spectrum sales at SpaceX with the AT&T deal will resolve the FCC investigation.