Updated version 2 - According to The Washington Post, SpaceX is negotiating to acquire Boost Mobile or to use its network.

Detailed information and background added in paragraphs 4 to 12

Reuters, November 2 - According to The Washington Post on Monday, SpaceX (SPCX.O) is in talks with EchoStar (ECHO.O) to acquire its wireless service brand Boost Mobile or obtain rights to use its network. This network is currently leased by EchoStar from AT&T (T.N) and T-Mobile (TMUS.O).

The report, citing people familiar with the negotiations, said that SpaceX has been in discussions with telecommunications company EchoStar for several months, aiming to launch its signature wireless service through a deal with the company.

This move would support the Elon Musk-led company's plan to build a hybrid satellite-ground mobile network through “Starlink Mobile” (link), which aims to combine satellite constellations with terrestrial infrastructure to challenge U.S. wireless giants AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

After SpaceX struck an $8 billion spectrum deal (link), telecom stocks came under pressure as investors assessed the threat posed by this up-and-coming satellite wireless competitor.

Acquiring Boost Mobile or accessing its network would provide SpaceX with an existing user base and distribution platform, accelerating its development plans.

As of the end of the second quarter, EchoStar had 7.38 million wireless users, primarily customers of Boost Mobile and Gen Mobile.

According to The Washington Post, Musk has personally participated in the negotiations and met with EchoStar chairman Charlie Ergen last month.

The report said that the proposed service may require the consent of AT&T and T-Mobile, as Boost Mobile’s existing network leasing agreements may not be transferable to a new owner without the approval of these two operators.

SpaceX and EchoStar have not yet responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.

EchoStar shares rose about 3.4% in pre-market trading, while T-Mobile shares fell 2%. AT&T and Verizon shares also fell slightly.

Analysts and industry experts have pointed out (link) the potential challenges SpaceX may face as it builds a network that could become America’s fourth-largest wireless carrier.

The rocket and satellite company may need to invest heavily in ground infrastructure, customer service, mobile phone subsidies, and promotional activities—areas that are costly within the wireless business, where the “big three” operators already have extensive operations.

(To assist non-English speakers, Reuters has automated the translation of its reports into several other languages. Since automated translation may contain errors, or may not include necessary context, Reuters does not guarantee the accuracy of automated translation and provides it solely for the convenience of readers. Reuters assumes no responsibility for any damage or loss caused by the use of automated translation.)