800 MHz spectrum licenses bid: SpaceX vs AST SpaceMobile for satellite voice

SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile are competing for about $6B worth of 800 MHz spectrum licenses across most of the US to enable satellite voice services directly to consumer phones. The push for 800 MHz spectrum licenses follows T-Mobile’s recent sale of an 800 MHz portfolio to Grain Management (deal reportedly $2.9B–$3.6B), which included spectrum swaps that may open room for direct-to-device (D2D) operators. AST SpaceMobile has already advanced in the band. In mid-August 2026, the FCC granted Special Temporary Authority for testing on specific 800 MHz frequencies, including 817–824 MHz uplink and 862–869 MHz downlink. AST’s approach is carrier-partner driven, working with AT&T and Verizon to deliver connectivity through existing customer relationships. The FCC’s 2026 rules also support using low-band 700/800 MHz spectrum via these partnerships, easing prior spectrum challenges. SpaceX is pursuing a more vertically integrated model using its Starlink constellation and a US partnership with T-Mobile to build D2D infrastructure. Separately, SpaceX has reportedly completed EchoStar-related deals totaling $17B–$19.6B, targeting mid-band and S-band spectrum to strengthen Starlink’s direct-to-device capabilities. Both companies have demonstrated D2D in real-world tests. Regulators and traders should note spectrum-sharing interference risks between satellite and terrestrial carriers, since every megahertz allocated to satellite services can reduce spectrum available to traditional networks.