Amazon is in advanced talks to acquire Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications firm, in a potential $9bn deal aimed at accelerating its competition with Elon Musk’s Starlink. The acquisition would expand Amazon’s Leo satellite constellation, currently under development to rival SpaceX’s global broadband network. However, negotiations face hurdles, including Apple’s 20% stake in Globalstar, which requires separate approvals. Globalstar, founded in 1991, has seen its stock surge 230% in a year amid takeover speculation, with its market cap hitting $9bn on Wednesday.

Apple’s investment in Globalstar includes a reserved 85% network capacity for iPhone satellite texting, a key condition of their 2024 $1.5bn partnership. While Amazon’s Leo project has launched over 180 satellites, it lags behind Starlink’s 10,000+ active satellites. Regulatory delays plague Amazon’s plans, including a two-year FCC extension for its 1,600-satellite deployment.

Globalstar’s 2025 revenue rose 9% to $273mn, despite operational losses last year. The deal’s outcome could reshape the satellite internet market, where Starlink dominates. Amazon’s move signals intensified rivalry, though final terms remain unclear. Globalstar declined to comment, while Apple and SpaceX—reportedly in early talks—have not responded.

This acquisition bid highlights Amazon’s strategic pivot toward space-based connectivity, leveraging Globalstar’s infrastructure to challenge Starlink’s lead. With iPhone-maker Apple and SpaceX both vying for Globalstar’s assets, the race to control low-Earth orbit intensifies.