In a bold move that’s sending ripples through the satellite industry, Amazon has announced a massive $11.6 billion acquisition of Globalstar, a veteran satellite operator. The deal, revealed on Tuesday, gives Amazon a quicker path into the fast-growing world of direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity — the ability to connect ordinary smartphones directly to satellites without relying on traditional cell towers.
This isn’t just another big corporate buyout. It’s a strategic play to accelerate Amazon’s Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper) low-Earth orbit satellite network and position it as a serious rival to Elon Musk’s Starlink.
Why Globalstar? Spectrum, Satellites, and a Ready-Made Partnership
Globalstar brings more than two dozen operational satellites, valuable radio frequency spectrum licenses, ground infrastructure, and decades of expertise in mobile satellite services. For Amazon, this means a faster route to offering reliable connectivity in remote areas, oceans, mountains, or anywhere traditional networks fall short.
But the real headline? Apple is deeply involved.
Globalstar has been the behind-the-scenes partner powering Apple’s popular satellite features on iPhone and Apple Watch — most notably the Emergency SOS via satellite and Find My functionality that can save lives when you’re off the grid. Apple even invested significantly in Globalstar in recent years.
Under the new agreement, Amazon has committed to continuing and expanding this partnership. Amazon Leo satellites will take over support for Apple’s current and future satellite-based safety features, ensuring iPhone users keep enjoying seamless emergency messaging and location services.
A Clear Shot at Starlink’s Dominance
Starlink already leads the pack with thousands of satellites and millions of users worldwide. However, Amazon is now doubling down on direct-to-device capabilities — technology that lets regular mobile phones connect straight to satellites for messaging, voice, and eventually higher-speed data.
Amazon plans to begin deploying its next-generation D2D system in 2028. The company says it will deliver faster speeds and better performance than older direct-to-cell setups by making smarter use of spectrum. It also intends to collaborate with mobile network operators to extend reliable, high-speed connectivity everywhere.
By acquiring Globalstar, Amazon gains not only hardware and spectrum but also immediate credibility and a high-profile customer in Apple — a smart way to jump-start its satellite ambitions while Starlink continues to expand.
What This Means Going Forward
The transaction is expected to close in 2027, pending regulatory approvals. Once complete, Amazon will integrate Globalstar’s existing fleet and upcoming satellites into its growing Leo constellation.
For everyday users, this could eventually translate to better satellite backup on phones, stronger emergency services in remote locations, and — down the line — more seamless connectivity without worrying about dead zones.
In the bigger picture, the satellite race is heating up. With Amazon, SpaceX, and others pouring billions into low-Earth orbit networks, the future of global connectivity is literally taking shape overhead. And for now, the collaboration between Amazon, Apple, and Globalstar looks like one of the most interesting alliances in that race.
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