Amazon Buys Globalstar, Eyes iPhone Satellite Leap

Amazon is set to acquire Globalstar, a satellite communications provider, for $11.6 billion. This significant acquisition includes taking over Apple's existing 20% stake in Globalstar. The deal, filed with the Federal Communications Commission, aims to bolster Amazon's position in the competitive satellite-to-phone market. Amazon intends to leverage Globalstar's infrastructure to offer enhanced satellite services.

The e-commerce giant plans to expand connectivity beyond Apple's iPhones, making services available to other mobile devices across various carriers. Amazon's investment will focus on improving Globalstar's network, including enabling voice calls and providing better coverage in areas with limited or no cellular service. This upgrade aims to surpass current limitations, offering higher capacity and improved signal quality.

Amazon is committed to advancing Globalstar's planned 48-satellite constellation, C-3, and will also deploy its own next-generation D2D satellite constellation. These new satellites will support features such as robust voice, text, and data connectivity compliant with 3GPP NTN standards. Amazon's proprietary antenna technology is designed to support these global direct-to-device services.

The acquisition positions Amazon to compete directly with rivals like SpaceX's Starlink Mobile. By enhancing Globalstar's capabilities, Amazon seeks to eliminate cellular dead zones and provide more reliable satellite connectivity for both consumers and businesses worldwide. Specific service launch dates and costs remain undisclosed.