On October 6, 2026, the FCC approved, in part, SpaceX’s application for up to 15,000 next-generation satellites for direct-to-cell service, which SpaceX calls Starlink Mobile. This is an approval to deploy satellites. It is not a new phone plan you can buy: SpaceX has not announced Starlink Mobile pricing or a consumer launch date.
Announced, approved, available: where things stand
- Approved (October 6, 2026): FCC order DA 26-1078 authorizes the constellation for supplemental coverage from space and mobile satellite service in the U.S., and mobile satellite and direct-to-cell service outside the U.S. (Via Satellite; Telecompetitor). The FCC also waived, with conditions, the requirement to lease spectrum from a mobile carrier for specified operations. It deferred some of SpaceX’s other spectrum requests.
- Conditional: commercial use of the spectrum SpaceX is buying from EchoStar depends on that deal being completed, according to Via Satellite.
- Available today: direct-to-cell texting and select apps through carrier partners. In the U.S. that is T-Mobile’s T-Satellite with Starlink, which T-Mobile sells as a plan add-on or includes in some plans. The new satellites aren’t part of that service yet.
- Not announced: Starlink Mobile pricing, a consumer launch date, or any change to existing carrier arrangements.
What it could mean
The lease waiver gives SpaceX a regulatory path to offer mobile service without relying on a carrier partner for spectrum. Whether and when it does that hasn’t been announced. Treat any reported timelines as company plans, not commitments.
Update: SpaceX’s 800 MHz spectrum deal
Two days after this approval, on October 8, 2026, SpaceX agreed to buy Grain Management’s nationwide 800 MHz spectrum for Starlink Mobile. That deal still needs FCC approval. See what the 800 MHz deal is and what’s still pending.
Does this affect your Starlink dish?
No. Starlink Mobile is a separate system from the broadband constellation that serves dishes such as the Mini, Standard and V5. For dish service, see our kit comparison buying guide, the U.S. plans guide and the Starlink guides hub.