SpaceX's possible Boost deal faces a hurdle because AT&T and T-Mobile executives discussed cutting off Boost's network access. Spectrum agreements help, but the carriers have not decided, and SpaceX still lacks nationwide infrastructure.
That leaves SpaceX's plan dependent on approval from the networks it hopes to challenge. Its spectrum deals, including a transaction valued at about $20 billion, give it a path to build. But it still lacks nationwide infrastructure, and an expert estimated another $120 billion to $130 billion may be needed. The access problem and buildout burden outweigh the progress so far.
AT&T executives reportedly discussed ending Boost's access, which could limit a new rival. No decision is reported, and the story gives no confirmed change to AT&T's business.
T-Mobile executives reportedly discussed ending Boost's access, which could limit a new rival. No decision is reported, and the story gives no confirmed change to T-Mobile's business.
EchoStar's possible Boost arrangement faces network-access concerns, and its wireless subscriber count fell to 7.19 million from 7.38 million. Its roughly $20 billion SpaceX spectrum transaction targets a November 2027 closing, so the story does not settle the company's outlook.
SpaceX could eventually add competition, but it lacks nationwide infrastructure and the story reports no direct change for Verizon. Musk's 2-to-3-year estimate is shorter than Verizon's CEO's 4-to-6-year estimate, leaving the timing uncertain.
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