Amazon announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Globalstar in a $11.6 billion deal, a mobile satellite services provider, as part of its strategy to expand its low Earth orbit satellite network, Amazon Leo, and introduce direct-to-device connectivity capabilities.
The acquisition will enable Amazon Leo to integrate Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure, radio frequency spectrum, and operational expertise, thereby extending cellular connectivity beyond traditional terrestrial networks. The move is designed to support voice, messaging, and data services directly to consumer devices in remote and underserved areas.
In conjunction with the acquisition, Amazon also announced an agreement with Apple to provide satellite connectivity for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models. The partnership will support features such as emergency messaging, roadside assistance, and location sharing, while expanding capabilities through Amazon Leo’s evolving satellite network.
Globalstar’s existing satellite fleet and spectrum licenses will be combined with Amazon’s planned constellation of thousands of satellites, creating a unified system capable of supporting a wide range of consumer, enterprise, and government use cases. The integration is expected to enhance reliability, performance, and global coverage.
Amazon plans to deploy its next-generation direct-to-device satellite system beginning in 2028, offering higher efficiency and faster speeds compared to legacy systems. The broader Amazon Leo network is expected to support hundreds of millions of connected devices worldwide.
The transaction is expected to close in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and certain operational milestones. Under the terms of the agreement, Globalstar shareholders will receive either cash or Amazon stock, with the total consideration subject to specific conditions and adjustments.
Amazon’s expansion into satellite connectivity reflects a broader effort to bridge the global digital divide, improve network resilience, and enable connectivity for individuals and businesses operating beyond the reach of traditional infrastructure.
KEY QUOTES
“There are billions of customers out there living, traveling, and operating in places beyond the reach of existing networks, and we started Amazon Leo to help bridge that divide. By combining Globalstar’s proven expertise and strong foundation with Amazon’s customer-obsession and innovation, customers can expect faster, more reliable service in more places, keeping them connected to the people and things that matter most. We’re excited to support Apple users through the Leo D2D system, and look forward to working with mobile network partners to help extend coverage to every corner of the planet.”
Panos Panay, Senior Vice President, Devices and Services, Amazon
“We have long believed low Earth orbit satellite constellations offer the most effective path to truly connect users and devices anywhere and anytime. For more than 30 years, Globalstar has executed on this vision through sustained, long-term investment in technological innovation, operational excellence, and development of globally harmonized spectrum across both satellite and terrestrial applications. The combination with Amazon Leo will advance innovations in digital connectivity that will benefit our customers and advance us toward a more intelligent, continuously connected world.”
Paul Jacobs, CEO, Globalstar
“Since launching more than three years ago, our groundbreaking safety service Emergency SOS via satellite has helped save many lives around the world, from a scout troop stranded on a winter hike in British Columbia, to a woman who was airlifted to safety in Colorado after her car rolled down a 250-foot cliff. Apple and Amazon have a long and proven track record of working together through Amazon’s core infrastructure services, and we look forward to building on that collaboration with Amazon Leo. This ensures our users will continue to have access to the vital satellite features they have come to rely on, including Emergency SOS, Messages, Find My, and Roadside Assistance via satellite, so they can stay safe and connected while off the grid.”
Greg Joswiak, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Product Marketing, Apple
