Starlink subscriber base hits 12 million as SpaceX builds ground network

SpaceX's Starlink internet service has achieved a significant milestone, now serving 12 million subscribers worldwide. The company also reported a substantial financial performance, with its overall revenue jumping 92% to $7.8 billion in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year.

The telecommunications division was a major contributor, generating $4.3 billion and showing robust growth of 66% year-over-year and 32% quarter-over-quarter. Corporate and government sector revenues also climbed to $1.8 billion, while the average revenue per user (ARPU) remained steady at $66 per month.

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For the launch of a full-fledged mobile service, the company will need to build and re-equip ground base stations in stages based on existing satellite terminals.

To enhance service accessibility, SpaceX executives Gwynne Shotwell and Elon Musk have announced plans for Starlink Mobile, a hybrid network. This initiative will involve the phased construction and modification of ground base stations using existing satellite terminals to support a full mobile service.

Concurrently, SpaceX is preparing to upgrade its orbital fleet. The deployment of new V3 satellites via the Starship rocket is expected to enable gigabit data transmission speeds. The company aims to complete the full rollout of this enhanced system by the second quarter of 2027.

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The deployment of new V3 satellites via the Starship rocket will enable gigabit data transmission speeds.