Amazon buys the satellite internet company behind Apple’s SOS system
Amazon today announced it is merging with satellite internet provider Globalstar Inc. to bolster rival Starlink, Leo. Globalstar isn’t a household name, but you know its work, as it provides Apple’s emergency satellite connectivity for compatible iPhones and Watches. In a statement, Amazon says the deal will increase Leo’s space footprint and enable direct-to-device service for its growing satellite network.
An interesting issue is that Apple owns 20% of Globalstar, which it purchased for $1.5 billion in 2024, but this was not mentioned. Instead, the release says Amazon and Apple have agreed that Leo will “power satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models.” And that support will continue as Leo’s network evolves, as well as collaboration “with Apple on future satellite services using Amazon’s Leo expanded satellite network.”
The release adds that Leo’s direct-to-device service won’t start until 2028, and the deal itself isn’t expected to close until 2027. Of course, unless Amazon appeases the FCC by extending its deadline to put more satellites into orbit before July 2026. Currently, the company must have 1,600 satellites in orbit by that deadline, but it only expects to have about 700 in the heavens. and work until then.
