Amazon has announced a $11.57 billion deal to acquire Globalstar, expanding its push into satellite-based internet services. The move combines Globalstar’s satellite network and spectrum assets with Amazon’s growing space internet program, strengthening its position in the global satellite connectivity race.
Massive $11.6 Billion Deal and Control of Globalstar’s Satellite Assets
Amazon has announced a major deal to acquire satellite communications company Globalstar for around $11.57 billion, marking a significant expansion of its push into space-based internet services and satellite communications.
Globalstar operates a network of 24 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which orbit closer to Earth than traditional satellites and help deliver faster communication signals. With this acquisition, Amazon will take control of Globalstar’s satellite system as well as its ground infrastructure, which is used to manage signals and connect services to users on Earth.
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Amazon already has its own satellite program underway, with more than 200 satellites being developed as part of its broader space internet project. By combining its existing system with Globalstar’s assets, Amazon aims to strengthen its position in the growing global satellite communications market, where companies are competing to expand internet access beyond traditional mobile networks.
Spectrum Licences and Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity Push
A key part of Amazon’s planned acquisition of Globalstar is the company’s global spectrum licences. These licences are important because they allow communication signals to move between satellites and devices across different regions without disruption. This helps ensure smoother and more reliable connections on a worldwide scale.
Amazon intends to use these spectrum rights to develop its direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity service. This system is designed to let smartphones and other everyday devices connect directly to satellites in space, reducing the need for traditional mobile towers or ground-based network infrastructure. The goal is to make connectivity possible even in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
The D2D technology is especially useful in places where mobile coverage is weak or unavailable, such as deep forests, oceans, deserts, and mountainous regions. In this system, satellites act as communication points in orbit, sending and receiving signals directly from devices on the ground to maintain connectivity even in isolated locations.
Amazon is reportedly aiming for a 2028 timeline to launch this satellite-based connectivity service. If implemented successfully, it could allow standard smartphones to connect directly to space networks without requiring special equipment. The combination of Globalstar’s spectrum licences and Amazon’s satellite infrastructure is seen as a key step in building this system.
Apple Partnership, Globalstar Operations, and Competition in Satellite Market
Globalstar is already used in satellite communication services for Apple Inc., helping power emergency messaging features on some devices. These features allow users to send messages when they are outside normal mobile network coverage. In 2024, Apple also acquired a 20% stake in Globalstar, strengthening its partnership with the company.
Following Amazon’s acquisition announcement, both Amazon and Apple have stated that existing satellite services, especially Apple’s emergency messaging features, will continue without interruption. A new agreement is also expected to support satellite-based services for current and future devices, including communication tools used in remote areas.
At the same time, Amazon’s entry into this space increases competition in the satellite internet industry, particularly with SpaceX’s Starlink network, which already operates a large global satellite system. This reflects a wider industry push to expand internet access from space.
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The sector is also seeing growing interest in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite technology. Investments in this area are estimated to reach between $6 billion and $8 billion, with more than 1,000 satellites expected to be deployed globally.
However, challenges remain, including limited bandwidth, dependence on clear sky conditions, and the need to coordinate with telecom operators and spectrum regulations. Despite these issues, companies like Amazon and Apple continue to invest heavily in satellite networks to expand global connectivity beyond traditional ground-based systems.
