SpaceX has signalled plans to launch its second-generation cellular Starlink system by 2027.
The proposed timeline appeared in a recent filing with the Federal Communications Commission. The document discussed SpaceX’s existing cellular Starlink service, which currently operates in partnership with T-Mobile in the United States.
In the filing, SpaceX Vice President for satellite policy David Goldman said the current service marks only the first phase. He added that SpaceX has secured spectrum assets that will support a far more advanced direct-to-device system planned for 2027.
Spectrum Deal With EchoStar
The 2027 launch aligns with SpaceX’s $17 billion agreement to acquire radio spectrum from EchoStar. The deal aims to expand and enhance Starlink’s cellular capabilities, according to reporting by PCMag.
However, the acquisition may not close until November 30, 2027. This timeline enables SpaceX to manage nearly $2 billion in interest payments on EchoStar’s debt. An earlier closing would increase SpaceX’s costs.
NEWS: SpaceX says it is aiming to roll out its second-generation cellular @Starlink system in 2027, according to new FCC filing.
"SpaceX’s first generation service is providing coverage to over 400 million people, with more than 6 million customers accessing the service each… pic.twitter.com/mNPJH47uah
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) January 22, 2026Musk previously referenced a two-year development window. He explained that smartphone makers need time to integrate chips capable of receiving signals from EchoStar’s spectrum. These frequencies include the 1.9 GHz and 2 GHz bands.
New Satellites and Stronger Competition
To support the upgraded service, SpaceX plans to deploy next-generation satellites designed to use the newly acquired spectrum. The proposal includes a 15,000-satellite constellation, pending regulatory approval.
Competition in the direct-to-device satellite market is intensifying. Rivals such as AST SpaceMobile and Globalstar are also racing to expand mobile connectivity from space.
At present, Starlink’s cellular service offers basic coverage in mobile dead zones. It supports messaging and limited video calls but lacks high bandwidth.
The second-generation system aims to change that. SpaceX says the upgrade will deliver 5G-like connectivity and increase network capacity by more than 100 times compared to the first generation.
If successful, the move could significantly reshape global mobile connectivity, especially in remote and underserved regions.
