Over 2.6 billion people worldwide lack access to reliable internet. Two companies are racing to solve this from space, but they’re taking radically different approaches.
SpaceX’s Starlink has already launched thousands of LEO satellites, delivering satellite internet service to remote areas globally. Meanwhile, AST SpaceMobile is building cell towers in space that work with your existing phone, no special equipment needed.
Key Takeaways
- AST SpaceMobile partners with carriers like AT&T and Vodafone to enhance networks via satellite, working through unmodified mobile devices
- Starlink operates independently, providing broadband internet directly while expanding into mobile through partnerships like T-Mobile
- Technology differs fundamentally: AST uses massive phased-array antennas on fewer satellites, Starlink deploys thousands of smaller LEO satellites
- Both face regulatory hurdles and must prove their technology delivers reliable voice and data at scale
Two Different Business Models
Understanding ASTS vs Starlink requires recognizing their opposing strategies. They’re solving the same problem from completely different angles.
AST SpaceMobile: The Partnership Play
AST SpaceMobile, led by Abel Avellan, isn’t trying to replace your carrier—it wants to enhance them. The company operates on a B2B2C model, selling satellite network access to mobile network operators who then offer coverage to their existing subscriber base.
Think of AST as a roaming partner in orbit. Instead of building expensive cell towers in remote areas, carriers tap into AST’s space mobile infrastructure.
The advantage? AST gains immediate access to billions of potential users through partnerships with AT&T, Vodafone, Rakuten Mobile, and others—without spending billions on customer acquisition. These partnerships also provide access to licensed spectrum, smoothing regulatory approval.
Strategic Edge: By working with mobile network operators instead of competing against them, AST SpaceMobile avoids the massive customer acquisition costs that plague direct-to-consumer satellite phones.
Starlink: Vertical Integration at Scale
SpaceX’s Starlink started with a different mission: bypassing traditional providers to deliver broadband from space. Elon Musk’s vision centered on comprehensive satellite constellations beaming connectivity anywhere on earth.
With over 5,000 satellites in orbit, Starlink service already dominates satellite internet. This track record provides a crucial first-mover advantage as it expands into mobile connectivity.
Unlike AST’s wholesale approach, Starlink controls everything: manufacturing, launching via SpaceX rockets, network operations, and customer relationships. This vertical integration offers flexibility but requires massive capital investment in satellites and expensive consumer premise equipment.
The impressive SpaceX operations have proven that it can execute at an unprecedented scale. Now Starlink service is focused on enabling emergency text messaging in areas lacking coverage, with voice and data to follow.
Technology Deep Dive
The tech approaches reflect each company’s strategy. AST bets on power through size, while Starlink leverages power through numbers.
AST’s BlueBird Satellites
AST SpaceMobile threw conventional wisdom out the window. Their Block 1 satellites feature phased-array antennas that unfold to 693 square feet—roughly the size of a studio apartment.
These massive antennas generate powerful beams that communicate with standard mobile phones from 434 miles up. That’s remarkable, mobile phones transmit at far lower power than traditional satellite gear.
The beam-forming technology electronically steers thousands of antenna elements, creating narrow beams that track users on the ground. This delivers signal strength for unmodified mobile phones without requiring line-of-sight or perfect weather.
Rather than launching thousands of satellites, AST plans global coverage with approximately 168. This reduces network complexity and collision risks, though individual satellite failures become more impactful.
AST also uses licensed spectrum from its mobile network operator partners, eliminating interference with terrestrial cell towers and accelerating FCC approval. Your phone connects using the same LTE and 5 G frequencies your carrier owns.
Starlink’s Constellation Strategy
SpaceX took the opposite approach. Instead of building massive platforms, it developed mass production for thousands of compact satellites.
Each Starlink satellite measures roughly table-sized, orbiting between 340-540 miles up. Starlink compensates for smaller antennas through sheer numbers; thousands working together ensure multiple satellites are always visible.
The direct-to-cell capability is newer, added to second-generation satellites. These essentially act as orbiting cell towers, though managing Doppler shift as satellites race overhead at 17,000 mph requires sophisticated signal processing.
Spectrum presents challenges. While AST’s partnerships provide licensed access, Starlink must negotiate in each market. The T-Mobile deal provides U.S. mid-band spectrum, but global expansion requires replicating this—or competing with carriers for spectrum rights.
Initially, Starlink’s cellular capability focuses on text. Voice and data follow later as more satellites deploy, reflecting the challenge of supporting multiple mobile devices from fast-moving space platforms.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | AST SpaceMobile | Starlink Direct-to-Cell |
|---|---|---|
| Satellite Philosophy | Fewer, larger, more powerful | Massive constellation of smaller units |
| Antenna Size | 693 sq ft phased-array | Integrated cellular antennas |
| Constellation Size | ~168 satellites planned | 12,000+ approved, 42,000 total planned |
| Spectrum Access | Partner carriers’ licensed spectrum | Negotiated market-by-market |
| Device Compatibility | Standard smartphones | Standard smartphones |
| Initial Service | 5G broadband speeds | Text, then voice and data |
| Launch Provider | Multiple including SpaceX | Exclusively SpaceX |
| Status (2025) | Testing with 5 BlueBirds deployed | Limited commercial via T-Mobile |
Market Position and Partnerships
The First-Mover Question
Starlink entered 2025 with an overwhelming first-mover advantage in satellite internet. The brand is synonymous with connectivity via satellite powerful momentum as it expands into mobile.
AST SpaceMobile aims for first-mover status in a specific niche: broadband speeds to completely unmodified phones. If successfully delivered, that’s a genuine breakthrough.
Partnership Power
AST’s partnership strategy may be its greatest asset. Agreements with mobile network operators serving over 2.8 billion subscribers globally provide immediate distribution, established relationships, and licensed spectrum access.
Key partnerships include AT&T (U.S.), Vodafone (Europe/Africa), and Rakuten Mobile (Japan). Each carrier joining strengthens the network through roaming agreements, creating a competitive moat.
Network Effect: AST positions itself as an enabler rather than a Starlink rival to established carriers, reducing the threat perception that might otherwise block market access.
Starlink’s approach differs. The T-Mobile partnership provides spectrum and distribution but contains inherent tension. T-Mobile benefits from expanded coverage, but Starlink’s broader capabilities could make it a competitor eventually.
Investment Perspective
AST SpaceMobile trades publicly as ASTS, giving investors direct access but exposing it to market volatility. The stock experiences dramatic swings as investors react to launches and demonstrations. Analysts’ price target estimates vary wildly based on deployment success and subscriber adoption.
Starlink remains private within SpaceX, with private valuations suggesting it accounts for substantial portions of SpaceX’s $150+ billion valuation. This private status provides freedom from quarterly earnings pressure but limits retail investor access.
Crucially, Starlink already generates revenue from satellite internet service, funding ongoing operations. AST depends on capital raises to fund buildout.
| Related: Project Kuiper vs Starlink: The Ultimate Satellite Showdown
Challenges Ahead
Regulatory Complexity
Each country maintains its own rules governing spectrum, space operations, and telecommunications. In the U.S., the FCC supports innovation but requires extensive testing to prevent interference with terrestrial networks.
AST’s use of carrier spectrum simplifies approval. Starlink faces more complex processes, particularly expanding beyond fixed broadband into mobile services.
Environmental concerns add another layer. Astronomers worry about satellite constellations interfering with observations. Space sustainability advocates worry about collisions and debris.
Execution Risks
For AST SpaceMobile, the challenge is scaling from successful tests to full deployment. Manufacturing and launching 168+ satellites, establishing ground stations globally, and integrating with dozens of carriers is massive.
Financial runway presents concerns. AST has burned significant capital and needs billions more. Any delays could necessitate additional raises at unfavorable terms.
Starlink faces different challenges. It’s proven it can manufacture and launch at scale, but adapting infrastructure for mobile connectivity requires development. The company must prove direct-to-cell scales from text to voice and data while supporting enough simultaneous users.
User Experience and Cost
For AST subscribers, service likely appears as a carrier add-on, priced like international roaming—possibly $10-20 monthly. The value proposition: eliminating dead zones while hiking, driving rural routes, or traveling remotely.
Expected performance aims to match terrestrial LTE or early 5 G service when connected via satellite. However, this requires line-of-sight, potentially limiting indoor usage.
Starlink’s direct-to-cell starts with text, sufficient for emergencies but far short of full connectivity. Performance and timeline for voice and data remain uncertain.
| Related: How Much Does Starlink Cost? Full Pricing Guide
The Verdict: Starlink vs ASTS
Framing ASTS vs Starlink as winner-take-all misses important nuances. Near-term, both can succeed by serving different needs and segments.
Different Paths Forward
AST SpaceMobile resembles the methodical tortoise carefully building partnerships and specialized technology. If successful, its service becomes invisible but essential infrastructure. Subscribers won’t know they’re using AST’s satellites—they’ll simply enjoy uninterrupted coverage.
Starlink plays the fast-moving hare, leveraging scale and technical capabilities to enter mobile connectivity rapidly. Its advantages in manufacturing, launch, and brand allow quick movement, but require navigating complex dynamics with potential partners.
According to Moor Insights, the satellite connectivity market could reach $40 billion annually by 2030. The ultimate winner navigates technological, regulatory, and financial challenges to provide reliable, affordable connectivity globally.
Long-Term Outlook
Most likely, both successfully deploy constellations but serve different markets. AST becomes the invisible backbone, enabling seamless global coverage for major mobile network operators. Starlink maintains a direct-to-consumer brand for users seeking comprehensive connectivity bundling satellite internet, mobile services, and emerging offerings.
The real winner? The billions are gaining reliable connectivity for the first time, enabling participation in the global digital economy and access to life-changing information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between ASTS and Starlink?
AST SpaceMobile partners with existing carriers to enhance their networks using licensed spectrum. Starlink operates independently as a satellite internet provider expanding into mobile, primarily serving customers directly.
Do I need special equipment?
No. Both services work with standard, unmodified mobile phones through regular cellular connections. However, outdoor usage with clear sky visibility provides the best performance.
When will these services be available?
Starlink began a limited text messaging service through T-Mobile in 2025, with voice and data following. AST SpaceMobile demonstrated technology successfully and expects commercial rollout through carriers in phases throughout 2025-2026.
How much will it cost?
AST’s service will likely be offered by carriers as a plan add-on, potentially $10-20 monthly. Starlink’s pricing remains unclear but may involve premium carrier tiers or standalone subscriptions.
Will satellites replace cell towers?
No. Satellite connectivity complements terrestrial infrastructure. Cell towers provide better performance, capacity, and indoor coverage in populated areas. Satellites excel in remote locations, filling coverage gaps, and providing emergency backup.
What are the biggest challenges?
Both face regulatory hurdles for global telecommunications approval. AST must scale from demonstration to full deployment while managing capital requirements. Starlink must prove acceptable voice and data performance at scale while managing carrier relationships.
Bottom Line
The legendary space race between AST SpaceMobile and Starlink represents a fundamental reimagining of global connectivity. AST’s partnership model offers seamless mobile network extension anywhere on earth. Starlink’s vertical integration provides a different but equally compelling vision.
This competition drives innovation, reduces costs, and accelerates timelines for true global connectivity. While both face substantial challenges, their success would mark a historic transformation in how humanity communicates.
The decisions these companies make in 2025 will shape telecommunications for decades. The race to connect the unconnected from space is well underway.
