The Federal Communications Commission approved Amazon's $11.5 billion acquisition of Globalstar, expanding the retail giant's satellite network. Amazon Leo has launched nearly 400 satellites since April 2025 and aims to deploy thousands more by 2029. Through the deal, Amazon adds Globalstar's two dozen satellites and mobile-satellite spectrum.
Amazon has committed over $10 billion to Leo and plans to roll out commercial services by late 2026. The FCC stated the acquisition will boost Amazon Leo's entry into the direct-to-device market, allowing fixed and mobile services. FCC Chair Brendan Carr said the decision empowers Amazon to deliver fast satellite broadband, increase competition, and help communities stay connected.
Tech companies are investing billions to compete with SpaceX's Starlink network of over 11,000 satellites. Amazon praised the approval as a step toward new connectivity capabilities. In July, Amazon sought approval for up to 5,105 satellites.
Direct-to-device technology allows smartphones to connect to satellites. The FCC will vote on a wireless spectrum auction to boost these services. Globalstar currently powers Emergency SOS and Find My for Apple iPhone and Apple Watch.
Amazon has signed an agreement with Apple to continue these services. Apple invested $1.5 billion in Globalstar in 2024 for a 20% equity stake, accounting for 63% of Globalstar's revenue. Globalstar said a new Apple-backed network under development would expand its footprint to 54 satellites from the current two dozen.
Source: Hacker News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing