Elon Musk Says Starlink Phones Are Coming by 2027 — No Carrier Needed 📱📡

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SpaceX founder and Starlink CEO Elon Musk has unveiled a bold project that could disrupt the global telecom industry. By 2027, he plans to launch smartphones capable of connecting directly to Starlink’s satellite constellation.

A Disruptive Announcement 🚀

Speaking at the ALL-IN Summit on September 10, 2025, Musk confirmed that Starlink is developing mobile devices with chipsets tuned to its satellite frequencies. These phones, he says, will deliver high-speed internet without relying on traditional mobile carriers. The rollout is expected within two years, giving engineers time to refine the technology and ensure compatibility with existing networks.

This announcement comes just a year after Starlink introduced its “direct-to-cell” service, which already allows certain devices to pick up a satellite signal without ground towers. The upcoming phones, however, are specifically designed for this connectivity — marking a new milestone in mobile technology.

Mounting Pressure on Telecom Operators 📶

The move puts added pressure on legacy telecom providers. In Africa, where terrestrial infrastructure remains costly to deploy, Starlink could offer a compelling alternative. Direct satellite access may significantly expand coverage in rural areas and boost digital inclusion.

As of today, Starlink is licensed to operate in 25 African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The service is already active in about 20 markets and aims to reach 45 countries by the end of 2026. Such expansion could accelerate digital transformation in regions still lacking reliable internet access.

A Global Race for Satellite Connectivity 🌍

Governments and tech players worldwide are also moving to secure their place in this new landscape. Nigeria, for instance, has signed a partnership to develop a national direct-to-mobile satellite service — a strategic move to diversify connectivity and reduce reliance on foreign infrastructure.

Still, Musk acknowledges that established telecom operators like MTN, Airtel, and Vodacom won’t be replaced overnight. They retain spectrum licenses and deep market penetration. Yet, he believes Starlink could emerge as a credible alternative to traditional carriers.

The Dawn of a New Telecom Era? 📡

With these upcoming devices, Starlink is signaling its ambition to redefine mobile connectivity standards. If the timeline holds, smartphones capable of linking directly to satellites could reshape the global telecom market. For Africa, the shift could be a decisive step toward universal internet access.

👉🏾 Would you switch to a Starlink phone that connects directly to satellites? Share your thoughts in the comments ☺️