Looks like the rumours have come true. Amazon is making a major move into the space race by acquiring Globalstar, the company currently responsible for Apple’s satellite connectivity for iPhone and Apple Watch. The deal, announced today, will integrate Globalstar’s satellites and radio frequency spectrum into Amazon’s Project Leo satellite internet network.
The most important news is the new long-term agreement between Amazon and Apple. Under this deal, Amazon’s satellite network will power the emergency and messaging features found on supported iPhone and Apple Watch models. This ensures that services like Emergency SOS, roadside assistance, and location sharing via Find My will continue to function and expand in the coming years.
The acquisition is centered on Direct-to-Device (D2D) technology. While current satellite features are largely limited to emergency texting, Amazon plans to deploy next-generation satellites starting in 2028. These will be capable of handling voice, text, and data directly to standard smartphones without the need for specialized hardware. Yes, this is a direct rival to SpaceX’s Starlink and its recent Starlink Mobile connectivity launch.
“There are billions of customers out there living, traveling, and operating in places beyond the reach of existing networks, and we started Amazon Leo to help bridge that divide,” said Panos Panay, Senior Vice President of Devices & Services, Amazon, in a statement on Tuesday.
“By combining Globalstar’s proven expertise and strong foundation with Amazon’s customer-obsession and innovation, customers can expect faster, more reliable service in more places—keeping them connected to the people and things that matter most. We’re excited to support Apple users through the Leo D2D system, and look forward to working with mobile network partners to help extend coverage to every corner of the planet,” said Panay.
As it stands, Amazon has 243 Leo satellites in orbit (SpaceX has over 10,000 Starlink satellites in orbit). There’s an FCC deadline where Amazon is supposed to have about 1,600 operational satellites by this July. But delays have resulted in Amazon asking the FCC for an extension. Project Leo’s commercial debut is supposed to take place in mid-2026.
Yesterday, Amazon announced new details about its Leo offering for airlines to get satellite internet in the skies by 2028.
SpaceX’s Starship, once operational, is expected to theoretically be able to deploy hundreds of next-generation Starlink V3 units into space, which could widen the gap between both companies.
Amazon is offering Globalstar stockholders $90.00 US per share, and the transaction is expected to close in 2027, pending regulatory approvals and the meeting of specific technical milestones. This is essentially an $11.6 billion US deal by Amazon to nab up Globalstar and try to rival SpaceX and Starlink as the satellite internet space race heats up.
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