The AT&T executive further argued that satellite technology is unable to outperform fiber optics in terms of performance. Even if every technical and operational factor is optimized over the next 10 years, Stankey claimed that satellite connectivity will still fail to beat fiber networks.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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AT&T CEO Calls SpaceX Phone Strategy Not Viable
Tech21 days ago
John Stankey, chief executive of AT&T, challenged the feasibility of using Starlink satellite dishes as cellular base stations in a critique of SpaceX's expansion plans. Stankey stated that implementing such a network at homes and businesses would cost as much as building a traditional macro network to achieve the same capabilities. He also noted that existing laws generally prevent the radiation of cellular signals from a residence without the owner's permission, leading him to dismiss the SpaceX strategy as not viable and to assert that AT&T is the real disruptor in the industry.
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