Today’s telecom news includes announcements on SpaceX, EchoStar, Starlink, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Marvell Technology, Lumentum, among others.
SpaceX Explores Boost Mobile Acquisition to Challenge US Telecom Giants
SpaceX is reportedly in discussions with EchoStar to acquire its Boost Mobile wireless business or secure access to its existing network, according to a Washington Post report cited by Reuters. The potential arrangement could help Elon Musk’s company launch Starlink Mobile, combining satellite connectivity with terrestrial mobile infrastructure to compete against AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. Boost Mobile operates using network capacity leased from AT&T and T-Mobile. EchoStar had approximately 7.38 million wireless customers at the end of the second quarter. However, transferring existing network agreements could require approval from both operators. The discussions could provide SpaceX with subscribers and distribution capabilities.
Marvell to Acquire Lumentum in $115 Billion AI Connectivity Deal
Marvell Technology has agreed to acquire optical networking equipment manufacturer Lumentum in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $115 billion. Under the agreement, Lumentum shareholders will receive 4.5 Marvell shares for each Lumentum share, giving them approximately 33 percent ownership of the combined company, while existing Marvell shareholders will retain 67 percent. The acquisition strengthens Marvell’s position in optical connectivity solutions supporting AI data centers, where increasing bandwidth requirements are accelerating the shift from copper-based connections to optical technologies. The combined company expects to benefit from larger addressable market, stronger product integration and more than $1 billion in annual cost synergies.
Northwood Space Raises $375 Million to Expand Satellite Ground Network with 100 Gbps Capacity
Northwood Space announced on November 2 that it had raised $375 million in Series C financing to expand its global satellite ground network. The company has deployed six multi-orbit ground sites across two continents and plans additional infrastructure supporting commercial and government satellite operators. Northwood’s new Prism antenna system supports multi-gigabit satellite links, with high-demand ground locations targeting more than 100 Gbps capacity by the end of 2027. Its manufacturing facility in Torrance, California, covers 185,000 square feet. The company demonstrated that ten Portal phased-array antennas could achieve receiving performance comparable to a 20-foot dish. The financing will accelerate network expansion, equipment production and existing contract delivery.