Amazon acquires Globalstar to expand satellite connectivity globally

Amazon and Globalstar have announced a definitive merger agreement under which Amazon will acquire Globalstar

The move will allow Amazon Leo to introduce direct-to-device (D2D) services within its low Earth orbit satellite network, expanding cellular connectivity to areas beyond traditional terrestrial coverage.

Alongside this development, Amazon has also reached an agreement with Apple to enable Amazon Leo to support satellite-based services for iPhone and Apple Watch devices, including Emergency SOS via satellite. These advancements form part of Amazon’s broader strategy to build a space-based connectivity ecosystem, working with mobile network operators and partners to deliver dependable, high-speed connectivity worldwide.

“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. “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.”

Globalstar is recognised as a major mobile satellite services operator, with extensive experience in non-geostationary orbit satellites and D2D technology, as well as providing essential and emergency communications worldwide. Through the agreement, Amazon will take ownership of Globalstar’s satellite operations, infrastructure, and assets, including globally authorised MSS spectrum licences.

By integrating Globalstar’s spectrum resources and satellite capabilities with the scale and performance of Amazon Leo, the combined platform aims to deliver seamless connectivity for consumer, enterprise, and government users. This will support users in remote regions as well as those moving in and out of conventional network coverage. Globalstar’s current satellite fleet, along with its upcoming enhanced satellites, will operate in conjunction with Amazon Leo’s broadband and planned D2D systems.

“We have long believed low Earth orbit satellite constellations offer the most effective path to truly connect users and devices anywhere and anytime,” said Paul Jacobs, CEO, Globalstar.

“For more than 30 years, Globalstar has executed on this vision through sustained, long-term investment in technological innovation, operational excellence, and development of globally harmonized spectrum across both satellite and terrestrial applications. The combination with Amazon Leo will advance innovations in digital connectivity that will benefit our customers and advance us toward a more intelligent, continuously connected world.”

From 2028, Amazon Leo is expected to roll out its next-generation D2D satellite system, delivering advanced voice, messaging, and data services directly to mobile devices. The system is designed to offer improved spectrum efficiency compared to existing direct-to-cell technologies, resulting in faster speeds and enhanced performance. It will integrate with Amazon’s broader satellite infrastructure, creating a unified network that supports both fixed and mobile connectivity use cases across a global user base.

As part of the Apple collaboration, Amazon will continue supporting satellite services currently enabled through Globalstar’s infrastructure for devices such as iPhone 14 and later models, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 3. These services include emergency messaging, location sharing, roadside assistance, and communication with contacts. Future developments will involve collaboration between Amazon and Apple to expand satellite-enabled features using the enhanced Amazon Leo network.

“Since launching more than three years ago, our groundbreaking safety service Emergency SOS via satellite has helped save many lives around the world, from a scout troop stranded on a winter hike in British Columbia, to a woman who was airlifted to safety in Colorado after her car rolled down a 250-foot cliff,” said Greg Joswiak, senior vice-president of Worldwide Product Marketing, Apple.

“Apple and Amazon have a long and proven track record of working together through Amazon’s core infrastructure services, and we look forward to building on that collaboration with Amazon Leo. This ensures our users will continue to have access to the vital satellite features they have come to rely on, including Emergency SOS, Messages, Find My, and Roadside Assistance via satellite, so they can stay safe and connected while off the grid.”