Elon Musk dismisses reports of SpaceX-built AI smartphone

Elon Musk has rejected claims that SpaceX is developing an AI-powered smartphone, calling a recent investigation into the matter completely unfounded.

The Disputed Report#

The Wall Street Journal published reporting this week suggesting that SpaceX had presented a mobile device prototype to investors before the company's landmark initial public offering in June. According to the account, the handset would have been slimmer than current iPhone models and powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon processor, featuring an AI-focused operating system built on technology from xAI, the artificial intelligence firm owned by SpaceX.

Musk took to his social media platform to deny the allegations, declaring the reporting "utterly false."

Broader SpaceX Connectivity Plans#

The smartphone rumors emerge amid other reported initiatives from SpaceX leadership. Last week, the Financial Times reported that SpaceX's chief operating officer Gwynne Shotwell had discussed with investors the possibility of launching a mobile telecommunications service tied to the company's Starlink satellite internet network. Some market observers have even speculated that SpaceX might pursue an acquisition of T-Mobile as part of a broader connectivity strategy.

Starlink remains SpaceX's sole profitable division at present.

A Reluctant Maybe#

Musk has previously given mixed signals on the topic. During a Pennsylvania appearance, he expressed strong reservations, saying the prospect of manufacturing a phone would be deeply unpleasant, though he conceded that "if we have to make a phone, we will." Earlier this year, he stated directly that SpaceX is "not developing a phone" in response to earlier reporting by Reuters.