As of mid-2025, Starlink's global user base neared six million across more than 130 countries, solidifying its leadership in the low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications market. This dominance was largely driven by SpaceX's high-frequency launches and cost-efficient, reusable Falcon 9 rockets, along with continuous upgrades to satellite specifications, such as incorporating optical inter-satellite link (OISL) modules.
In contrast, Kuiper plans to commence commercial services no earlier than the end of 2025. Failing to launch on schedule could cause it to miss opportunities in regions where Starlink's capacity has already become saturated. Meanwhile, OneWeb experienced delays in deploying its second-generation satellites due to limited initial design capacity and insufficient funding, leaving it primarily focused on redundancy applications and struggling to expand its user base.
Regarding satellite direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, the three major US telecom operators—Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile—are all actively investing in 2025, favoring a strategy of "upgrading satellites without replacing handsets."
Starlink drives up launch volume and payload weight of small satellites
Chart 1: Global launch volumes of small and large satellites (units)
OISL becomes standard equipment for emerging communication satellites
Starlink leads multiple LEO satellite communication application markets
Chart 3: Starlink cumulative users and satellite generation specifications
Starlink capacity saturation presents an opportunity for Kuiper
OneWeb stays with first-gen satellites, struggling to rival Starlink
Chart 6: Current D2D development among smartphone brands and telecom operators
