The acquisition grants Amazon control over Globalstar’s spectrum licenses and operations, effectively merging them with its own Kuiper-based Leo constellation. While Globalstar currently maintains a modest fleet of 25 satellites, Amazon’s project is scaling rapidly, with over 200 satellites already in orbit and plans to reach a network of 3,200. This move positions Amazon to compete with Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service, which relies on partnerships with mobile carriers like T-Mobile to provide global messaging.
Amazon and Apple Forge Satellite Alliance to Counter Starlink
Amazon has finalized an $11.57 billion deal to acquire Globalstar’s satellite assets, signaling a direct challenge to SpaceX’s Starlink. The agreement secures the infrastructure powering Apple’s Emergency SOS and establishes a new framework for integrating future iPhone and Apple Watch connectivity into Amazon’s expanding low-Earth orbit network.
Apple remains a critical beneficiary of this transition. Under the new arrangement, Amazon will continue supporting existing satellite features on iPhone 14 and later models, alongside the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Beyond maintaining current emergency services, the two companies are collaborating on future connectivity tools that will leverage the expanded capacity of Amazon’s Leo infrastructure. The deal is slated to close in 2027, provided it clears the necessary regulatory hurdles.
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