SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile are positioning themselves to acquire spectrum licenses in the 800 MHz band worth approximately $6 billion to provide satellite voice services directly to consumer phones across the United States. This interest comes after T-Mobile sold its 800 MHz spectrum portfolio to Grain Management for between $2.9 billion and $3.6 billion. AST SpaceMobile obtained FCC Special Temporary Authority in early August 2026 to test satellite connectivity on specific 800 MHz frequencies, while SpaceX has completed deals totaling between $17 billion and $19.6 billion with EchoStar to strengthen Starlink’s direct-to-device capabilities. Both operators are counting on favorable FCC regulatory framework in 2026 to develop satellite-to-phone connectivity, despite concerns about interference with terrestrial carriers.
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