"The FCC regulates communications by radio, television, wire, and cable, which also includes regulating D2D technology that lets your existing smartphone connect directly to a satellite orbiting Earth, the same way it would connect to a cell tower."
"On November 26, 2024, the FCC granted SpaceX the first-ever authorization under that framework, approving its partnership with T-Mobile to provide service in specific frequency bands."
"This recent ruling by the FCC blocked SpaceX from going further, protecting incumbent spectrum holders like Globalstar and Iridium. But the market momentum is already in motion."
On April 23, 2006, the FCC dismissed SpaceX's petition for Mobile Satellite Service spectrum, hindering its direct-to-device capabilities. SpaceX's Starlink Mobile service, launched in July 2025, aims to connect smartphones directly to satellites. The FCC established a framework for satellite operators in March 2024, allowing them to lease spectrum from terrestrial carriers. SpaceX received authorization for its partnership with T-Mobile in November 2024 and acquired spectrum from EchoStar. Despite the FCC's ruling protecting existing spectrum holders, market momentum continues to grow for satellite communication services.
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