SpaceX could be about to challenge the status quo held by the United States’ three largest mobile networks, and readers appear to agree that the venture stands a genuine chance of success.
The company has been developing its own mobile service, and a tentative launch window has now emerged. When asked what to expect from the offering, a clear majority of respondents indicated confidence in the plan, despite public scepticism from established industry figures.
A potential rival to the established networks
More than 68 percent of readers said they believe the service will finally become a true rival to the country’s three dominant carriers. That view arrived despite ridicule from the outgoing chief financial officer of one of those established operators.
Almost 24 percent took a more sceptical stance, describing the plan as “just another” ambition unlikely to materialise. Industry veterans and critics have previously argued that the service SpaceX intends to build cannot work, a position a notable share of readers share.
A further eight percent of respondents believe the company can never amount to more than a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), in the mould of services such as Mint Mobile or Visible. The three major carriers have declined to sign an MVNO agreement with the company, which currently limits its options.
A satellite-powered approach
The plan centres on a satellite-powered service delivered via Starlink, with the stated aim of eliminating dead zones entirely and providing global roaming coverage. Supporters point to the company’s track record as a reason for optimism.
When Starlink was in development, it was widely deemed an impossible task. The company has since landed rockets back on Earth and now handles roughly half of the launches taking place worldwide.
Those achievements underpin the confidence expressed by the majority of readers, who anticipate that the established networks may face significant disruption as the new service moves towards launch.
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Image: phonearena.com
