Rural broadband: getting up to speed

From the shape and size of markets to trends in consumer behaviour, GSMA Intelligence aims to provide food for thought through informative visuals designed to bring colour and clarity to complex issues facing the industry. This chart highlights how an unreliable connection is the top reason for dissatisfaction among fixed broadband users across most major markets.

SpaceX’s Q3 results have reinforced the scale of its ambitions. AI revenue has risen by eight times over the same period in 2025, though Starlink remains the group’s key profit engine. SpaceX reaffirmed its ambition to architect a national-scale US mobile network by leveraging small cells (sometimes called femtocells) and potentially tower assets via leases. The recent acquisition of Grain Management’s 800 MHz spectrum is an important enabler and signal of intent. GSMA Intelligence remains sceptical of the efficacy of this approach for a variety of reasons, but as a bona fide disruptor, the prospect is now likely a matter of when, not if.

SpaceX’s Q2 results highlight Starlink’s expanding role, with connectivity revenue up 66% year on year to $4.3 billion. Meanwhile, Rocket Lab’s proposed acquisition of Iridium underscores a broader shift towards vertical integration as satellite players seek greater control over spacecraft, launch, constellation operations and connectivity economics. Sovereignty is also emerging as a critical differentiator and reshaping the competitive landscape, making spectrum access, regulatory alignment, local infrastructure and operator integration increasingly important alongside scale, coverage and cost.