Starlink has become SpaceX's main profit source and plans growth—from satellite AI devices to orbital management

SpaceX is preparing an expansion of Starlink and new services

In the context of the company’s upcoming IPO this year, SpaceX intends to strengthen its Starlink division and enter several new markets. These include satellite telephony, direct internet access from smartphones, and a space‑tracking system.

Starlink already accounts for a significant portion of the corporation’s revenue: last year profit was about $8 billion on revenue of $15–16 billion, and Starlink’s share of total earnings ranged from 50 % to 80 %.

Why is growth so fast
- Mass production of satellites. More Starlink ships are launched into orbit, increasing the network’s throughput.

- Reusable rockets. Starship lifts allow large batches of upgraded satellites to be delivered at minimal cost.

These two factors enable Elon Musk’s long‑term plans: creating orbital data centers for artificial intelligence, made possible by the merger of SpaceX and xAI, an AI company.

SpaceX mobile devices
Musk has been developing his own smartphone compatible with the Starlink network for several years. In response to a question about the “Starlink phone,” he noted:

> “It will be a completely different device from modern phones – optimized solely for neural‑network work with maximum performance per watt.”

Current efforts include partnerships with T‑Mobile and other operators worldwide, who are already integrating the Starlink service into their smartphones.

Full‑coverage policy
SpaceX aims for “full cellular coverage of the planet,” Musk says. This is not merely an addition to existing Verizon, AT&T, etc., networks but a holistic solution that should work globally.

In October 2023 the company applied for the trademark *Starlink Mobile*, and this year it filed patents for technologies that allow non‑standard Starlink terminals to connect to the network.

Stargaze technology
SpaceX recently announced the Stargaze project – a space‑traffic monitoring system using cameras mounted on satellites. The system will track objects in low Earth orbit, where there are no international regulatory standards.

The company promises to provide some data to operators for free.

Criticism and challenges
Armand Muzzi, president of Summit Ridge Group, believes that launching its own phone will be difficult due to competition with traditional mobile operators: “It’s like GM making tires and trying to sell them to other automakers.”

Nevertheless, SpaceX continues to invest in the cellular sector – an example is the purchase of EchoStar’s satellite spectrum for $19.6 billion last year.

Conclusion:

SpaceX is actively expanding Starlink, planning to add satellite telephony and smartphones while developing new services (Stargaze) and strengthening its position as a global mobile provider. All efforts are backed by new patents, trademarks, and large‑scale infrastructure investments.