US Telecom Giants Dismiss SpaceX MVNO Plans; Anthropic IPO Reveals Explosive Growth and Losses; Amazon Clears FCC Hurdle for Globalstar Buy

Image: Amiya Johar · Source

T-Mobile and Verizon reject MVNO partnerships with SpaceX's Starlink mobile as Amazon secures FCC approval for its $11.5B Globalstar acquisition. Meanwhile, Anthropic files for IPO showing rapid revenue growth alongside substantial net losses.

In recent developments shaping the US telecom and technology sectors, major players T-Mobile US, Verizon, Anthropic, and Amazon have made significant announcements and disclosures. These updates underscore the ongoing competitive dynamics in mobile networks, artificial intelligence, and satellite communications.

T-Mobile US CEO Srini Gopalan and Verizon CEO Dan Schulman have publicly discounted the possibility of Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) agreements with SpaceX’s Starlink mobile network. Both executives emphasized the scale and investment required to build competitive terrestrial infrastructure, and Gopalan specifically stated that he sees "no room for an MVNO with SpaceX." Similarly, AT&T CEO John Stankey has questioned SpaceX's threat, citing the extensive network buildout needed to match incumbents. Reports indicate SpaceX is pursuing access to over 80,000 US cell sites to support its Starlink Mobile service, targeting an early 2028 launch for direct-to-device connectivity. However, the combined skepticism from leading US carriers highlights the challenges Starlink may face in disrupting established networks despite investor and market interest.

Amid this telecom tussle, AI startup Anthropic has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol ANT. Its SEC registration reveals extraordinary revenue growth from $1.2 billion in the first half of 2025 to $16.3 billion in the same period of 2026. However, the company simultaneously reported a staggering net loss of $80.7 billion, largely driven by $2.4 billion in compute and infrastructure expenses. Anthropic cautions investors that its current growth rates are unlikely to continue indefinitely, pointing to market infancy and adoption dynamics as factors behind its rapid initial expansion. Industry experts warn that such impressive top-line figures do not guarantee profitability and urge prudent assessment of the AI market's evolving economics.

Meanwhile, Amazon has secured a vital regulatory approval from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its proposed $11.5 billion acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite communications provider. This clearance advances Amazon’s plans to integrate direct-to-device (D2D) services into its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation business. The FCC authorized Amazon to acquire roughly 25 MHz of Globalstar’s mobile satellite spectrum and access its C-3 satellite system, which will enhance network capacity. The agreement also preserves Apple’s existing arrangement with Globalstar, ensuring continued satellite connectivity services for iPhone and Apple Watch users. Regulatory authorities highlighted that the deal could improve communication coverage in underserved areas, bolster emergency services, and facilitate industrial data applications. Analysts view the acquisition as a strategic move to accelerate Amazon’s satellite connectivity offerings and strengthen its competitive position against SpaceX’s Starlink.

Collectively, these developments signify intense competition and strategic expansion in US mobile, AI, and satellite networks. Incumbent carriers remain wary of new entrants leveraging innovative technologies, while emerging companies seek capital and partnerships to scale rapidly. Satellite-based connectivity continues to attract significant investment as major tech firms pursue diversified communication infrastructures beyond traditional terrestrial networks.