Consumers Expressed Interest in Starlink Mobile Service

A new survey indicates that over one-third of consumers would consider switching to a Starlink mobile offering.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Telecommunications

Isometric editorial illustration of a satellite dish array in an open landscape, representing the expansion of wireless satellite infrastructure. — A recent TD Cowen survey reveals that approximately 34% of U.S. consumers would consider switching their mobile service to a potential Starlink offering. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you consider switching your mobile phone service to a product owned by Elon Musk?

A TD Cowen survey of 800 consumers found that 34% of respondents would consider switching their service to Starlink Mobile. The data also highlighted varying levels of interest across existing carrier customer bases.

Why it matters

The survey results provide insight into potential consumer adoption of Starlink mobile services should the company expand into the wireless sector. These figures reveal how current carrier loyalty compares to interest in emerging satellite-based mobile competitors.

The survey of 800 respondents showed that 52% of AT&T, 30% of T-Mobile, and 23% of Verizon customers would consider switching to Starlink Mobile. Verizon currently maintains a brand ranking score of 1.92, while AT&T and T-Mobile each hold scores of 2.04.

The players

TD Cowen

This is a financial services firm that conducts market research and analysis on the telecommunications and technology sectors.

Elon Musk

He is the billionaire entrepreneur and CEO who leads SpaceX, the parent company of the Starlink satellite internet service.

Verizon

This is a major American multinational telecommunications conglomerate that provides wireless and wired network services.

AT&T

This is a prominent American telecommunications holding company that is one of the largest providers of mobile and fixed network services.

T-Mobile

This is a wireless network operator that provides mobile communications services across the United States.

The details

Interest in switching is countered by 24% of respondents who cited an aversion to products from Elon Musk and 12% who pointed to performance and reliability concerns. Additionally, Verizon recently reclaimed the top carrier brand ranking from T-Mobile based on the 1 to 3 scale used in the study.

October 5, 2026: TD Cowen published the survey findings.
April 2027: Auction 115 is scheduled to begin.

The Tech Race

The survey results provide a baseline of consumer interest ahead of Starlink's anticipated participation in the FCC's spectrum Auction 115. This interest signals a potential shift in the competitive landscape as satellite providers attempt to challenge the dominance of terrestrial carriers.

Consumers may soon see new service options that challenge existing carrier pricing and coverage models as Starlink potentially enters the mobile market. Potential users should monitor future service announcements to determine if satellite-based mobile data meets their reliability needs.

The takeaway

While consumer curiosity regarding satellite mobile service is significant, established loyalty and performance concerns remain key barriers for new entrants. Prospective users should weigh these brand rankings alongside future availability to ensure consistent connectivity.