In a surprising twist, EchoStar has reached a groundbreaking agreement with SpaceX to sell its AWS-3 spectrum licenses for $2.6 billion in stock. As SpaceX acquires these frequencies, the deal boosts its plans to offer direct-to-device services. This development aligns with EchoStar’s strategy to offload spectrum, creating potential VoIP opportunities by possibly enhancing SpaceX’s connectivity solutions in consumer and enterprise markets. Speculation is rampant regarding SpaceX leveraging this acquisition to expand into the cellular market, potentially positioning itself as a significant player. The integration of spectrum with satellite technology further intensifies competition and could revolutionize VoIP services.
SpaceX’s Starlink project has secured provisional approval from UK regulator Ofcom for E band spectrum access, significantly enhancing its satellite network’s backhaul data capacity. This move addresses the UK’s current demand-driven capacity constraints. By utilizing three ground stations, Starlink aims to improve service quality, compete effectively, and optimize costs.
SpaceX’s ninth Starship test ended in failure after a fuel leak caused disintegration over the Indian Ocean. Despite early success, this marks the third setback in a row, raising doubts about meeting future goals for Mars and Moon missions. SpaceX continues refining the system under FAA oversight.
Amazon has launched its first 27 satellites for Project Kuiper, marking its entry into the satellite internet race against SpaceX’s Starlink. Aiming to deliver fast internet to remote areas, Amazon plans to deploy over 3,200 satellites and begin service by late 2025 while addressing concerns like light pollution and regulatory challenges.
Indian telecom giant Jio Platforms has partnered with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s satellite internet to India. This collaboration aims to enhance high-speed internet access across remote areas, supporting Jio’s mission to provide reliable broadband to businesses, enterprises, and communities.
Bharti Airtel’s strategic partnership with SpaceX to introduce Starlink broadband in India is a groundbreaking move in the telecom sector. This collaboration leverages Airtel’s market expertise and infrastructure, aiming to boost broadband access in remote areas.
Italy is in talks with SpaceX for a €1.5 billion contract aimed at enhancing national telecom security. The deal incorporates encrypted communications and Starlink’s integration to boost connectivity, especially in underserved areas.
The FCC approved SpaceX to replace its aging Starlink satellites with advanced second-gen models. The number of Australians using FWA for home broadband nearly doubled. Hiya’s report found nearly 20 billion spam calls globally. The UK CMA has paused its app store investigations into Apple and Google.
The UK Ministry of Defence has successfully launched its own satellite, ‘Tyche’, revolutionizing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This pivotal event marks the UK’s leap forward in space-based defense. As part of a broader initiative, Tyche will bolster military operations, disaster response, and environmental monitoring, reinforcing national security and technological innovation.
Barcelona-based Sateliot has launched four LEO nanosatellites via SpaceX to expand its satellite IoT services. This move aims to connect eight million devices and secure €30 million in funding. Utilizing a 5G core through AWS, Sateliot’s NB-IoT constellation targets 100% global coverage and offers cost-saving IoT solutions.


