SpaceX Discusses Boost Mobile Deal With EchoStar for U.S. Wireless

SpaceX is in talks with EchoStar about buying Boost Mobile or using its network, opening a possible route into U.S. wireless as the company pursues a branded phone service.

SpaceX had sought network access from Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile for a mobile service of its own. All three declined. EchoStar owns Boost, which has an established brand and subscriber base.

A Boost deal would not automatically give SpaceX network access. Boost relies on AT&T and T-Mobile, and a sale or network-access agreement would generally require their approval.

SpaceX agreed earlier this month to spend about $8 billion on spectrum licenses intended to support mobile coverage in areas satellite service does not reach. SpaceX Chief Financial Officer Bret Johnsen has said the company aims to become a major U.S. mobile carrier. The company has more than 12,000 satellites in orbit; a Boost arrangement could pair that satellite system with an established terrestrial brand and carrier access if approvals are secured.