FCC authorizes SpaceX’s Starlink Mobile to operate internationally

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved SpaceX’s application to offer international telecommunications services, according to TechRadar’s James Rogerson. The decision could expand Starlink Mobile beyond its current U.S. focus.

Starlink Mobile is currently offered mainly through T-Satellite, a dead-zone coverage service provided with T-Mobile. The FCC authorization could allow U.S. customers to use those capabilities while roaming abroad. It could also open the possibility of Starlink Mobile being offered directly to customers in other countries, rather than only through partnerships with local networks.

SpaceX has said its mobile plans include 5G-level capabilities and download speeds of up to 150Mbps delivered from satellites. The company’s V2 satellite network is intended to provide 100x the data density of its V1 capabilities, supporting native calls, high-speed apps, streaming and other services.

A standalone rival to conventional carriers such as T-Mobile and Verizon may still be some way off. Dense urban areas could require additional traditional network infrastructure. SpaceX is already pursuing carrier partnerships, including an announced agreement with Japan’s KDDI. Starlink Mobile V2 is expected to provide the capabilities described above, while the FCC approval leaves open the possibility of direct service in the U.S. and other countries.