SpaceX Discussed Boost Mobile Deal With EchoStar

SpaceX has held exploratory discussions with EchoStar about acquiring Boost Mobile or gaining access to its network, a possible route into the U.S. wireless market for the satellite company. No agreement has been announced, and neither company has publicly confirmed the reported talks. The discussions, reported as having continued for several months, concern a proposed mobile service combining Starlink satellite connectivity with conventional terrestrial infrastructure. Buying Boost or using its network could give SpaceX an existing wireless brand, customers and distribution while it develops a broader service. The precise structure of any arrangement remains undecided. According to people familiar with the discussions, Elon Musk met EchoStar chairman Charlie Ergen in October to discuss a possible arrangement. The reported conversations follow SpaceX’s efforts to secure access to cellular networks from major U.S. carriers. Accounts of those efforts say AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon declined requests from Musk for network access. A key obstacle could be Boost’s existing network agreements. Boost leases capacity from AT&T and T-Mobile, and people familiar with the arrangements told...