Amazon to Acquire Globalstar, Strengthens Satellite Partnership with Apple for iPhone Connectivity

Amazon is expanding its ambitions in satellite communications by acquiring Globalstar and deepening its collaboration with Apple to enhance connectivity features on consumer devices.

Amazon Moves to Acquire Globalstar

Amazon has officially announced its plan to acquire Globalstar, a key player in satellite communications. This strategic move is aimed at strengthening Amazon’s presence in the rapidly growing low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite market.

By bringing Globalstar under its umbrella, Amazon intends to integrate the company’s satellite infrastructure, radio spectrum, and operational expertise into its broader satellite network. This acquisition is expected to play a vital role in advancing Amazon’s long-term connectivity goals and expanding its reach into underserved and remote regions.

The deal, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is anticipated to close by 2027. Once completed, it will position Amazon as a stronger competitor in the satellite internet space.

Boost to Amazon’s LEO Ambitions and Project Kuiper

The acquisition aligns closely with Amazon’s existing satellite initiative, Project Kuiper, which aims to deploy thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit to provide high-speed internet access globally.

With Globalstar’s assets, Amazon plans to accelerate the development of its broader satellite ecosystem, sometimes referred to as its Amazon LEO initiative. The integration of Globalstar’s established network is expected to enhance the scale and efficiency of Amazon’s satellite operations.

This move highlights Amazon’s ambition to compete with other major players in the space-based internet sector by offering reliable and widespread connectivity.

Direct-to-Device Connectivity: A Key Focus

One of the most significant outcomes of the acquisition is the development of Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite communication technology. This innovation allows smartphones and other devices to connect directly to satellites without relying on traditional cellular towers.

D2D services are expected to revolutionise connectivity by enabling voice calls, text messaging, and data services even in areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable. This includes remote locations, rural regions, and areas affected by infrastructure limitations.

According to Panos Panay, Senior Vice President of Devices & Services at Amazon, the initiative is designed to bridge connectivity gaps worldwide. He emphasised that billions of people still lack reliable network access, and Amazon’s satellite efforts aim to address this challenge.

Enhancing Connectivity During Emergencies

Another important benefit of Amazon’s satellite expansion is improved network resilience during emergencies. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods often disrupt traditional communication networks, leaving affected populations isolated.

With satellite-based D2D connectivity, users can maintain communication even when ground-based infrastructure fails. This capability could prove critical in emergency response scenarios, enabling faster coordination and potentially saving lives.

Amazon’s investment in satellite technology reflects a broader industry trend toward building more robust and disaster-resilient communication systems.

Next-Generation Satellite Network Plans

Amazon has outlined its roadmap for deploying a next-generation D2D satellite system. The company plans to begin rolling out this advanced network in 2028, with thousands of satellites forming a global constellation.

This network is expected to support hundreds of millions of connected devices worldwide, ranging from smartphones to IoT devices. The scale of the deployment underscores Amazon’s commitment to becoming a major player in global connectivity.

By combining Globalstar’s existing infrastructure with its own satellite technology, Amazon aims to deliver faster, more reliable, and more accessible services.

Amazon and Apple Expand Strategic Partnership

In addition to the acquisition, Amazon has announced a new agreement with Apple to continue supporting satellite connectivity features on its devices. This partnership builds on Globalstar’s existing role in powering satellite services for Apple products.

Currently, Globalstar provides satellite connectivity for devices such as the iPhone 14 and later models, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 3. These features include Emergency SOS via Satellite, location sharing through Find My, and roadside assistance in areas without cellular coverage.

Satellite Features Enhancing User Safety

Apple’s satellite-based features have already demonstrated their value, particularly in emergency situations. The Emergency SOS via Satellite function allows users to contact emergency services even when they are outside cellular coverage.

Greg Joswiak, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Product Marketing at Apple, highlighted the life-saving impact of these services since their launch. He noted that the collaboration with Amazon will further strengthen these capabilities.

Through this partnership, Apple users can expect continued access to critical safety features, along with potential improvements as Amazon expands its satellite infrastructure.

Future Integration of Amazon’s Satellite Network

As Amazon develops its LEO network, it plans to integrate it with Apple’s ecosystem to enhance performance and coverage. This means that future Apple devices could benefit from improved satellite connectivity, offering faster response times and broader global reach.

The collaboration also opens the door to new features and applications, potentially extending satellite connectivity beyond emergency services to everyday communication needs.

A Competitive Push in the Satellite Connectivity Space

Amazon’s acquisition of Globalstar and its partnership with Apple signal a major push into the satellite communications market. With increasing demand for global connectivity, especially in remote and underserved regions, companies are racing to build advanced satellite networks.

By combining infrastructure, innovation, and strategic partnerships, Amazon is positioning itself as a key player in this evolving landscape. The integration of D2D technology and support for consumer devices further strengthens its competitive edge.

Conclusion: A Transformational Step for Connectivity

The acquisition of Globalstar and the expanded partnership with Apple represent a transformative step for Amazon’s satellite ambitions. By focusing on direct-to-device connectivity and global coverage, the company aims to redefine how people stay connected.

As the satellite network develops over the coming years, users can expect more reliable communication, enhanced safety features, and broader access to connectivity—regardless of location.