SpaceX is considering acquiring Boost Mobile or using EchoStar's network
SpaceX is in talks to buy EchoStar’s Boost Mobile or gain access to its network, The Washington Post reported Monday, citing people familiar with the discussions. Elon Musk met EchoStar Chairman Charlie Ergen last month. Because Boost leases network capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile, their consent may be needed. SpaceX and EchoStar did not immediately comment.
More context
According to people familiar with the negotiations, the Post reported Monday that SpaceX is considering either purchasing EchoStar’s Boost Mobile wireless service or using its network. The Post said the negotiations have taken place over several months and that Elon Musk met with EchoStar Chairman Charlie Ergen last month. SpaceX’s planned Starlink Mobile service would combine satellite connectivity with ground-based equipment to compete with major U.S. wireless carriers, including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. Boost Mobile leases network capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile. The Post reported that a deal could require the carriers’ consent because Boost’s network agreements may not transfer to a new owner. Neither SpaceX nor EchoStar immediately responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.
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Reporting
- Merced Sun-Star (with Reuters) — SpaceX in talks to buy Boost Mobile or use its network, Washington Post reports | Merced Sun-Star
- Quartz — SpaceX reportedly in talks to buy Boost Mobile wireless service
- 24/7 Wall St. — SpaceX Climbs 4% on Reported Boost Mobile Talks; AST SpaceMobile Falls 4%, Rocket Lab Dips - 24/7 Wall St.
- The Washington Post — Inside Elon Musk’s plan to conquer a new industry
- Investor’s Business Daily — SpaceX Stock: SpaceX In Boost Mobile Talks With Ergen's EchoStar | Investor's Business Daily
- The Verge — SpaceX could buy Boost Mobile as part of its big mobile carrier plans | The Verge
- thenextweb.com — SpaceX reportedly in talks to buy EchoStar’s Boost Mobile
- grafa.com — SpaceX explores Boost Mobile deal to launch Starlink Mobile | Grafa
Verifier’s note
The Washington Post directly reports talks about buying Boost Mobile or using its network. The Next Web, Reuters as carried by Merced Sun-Star, Grafa, Quartz, 24/7 Wall St., Investor’s Business Daily, and The Verge also describe those talks, but their accounts rely on or repeat the Washington Post report.