Amazon’s Grab of Globalstar

Amazon’s Bold Grab of Globalstar: What It Means for Mobile Satellite Connectivity

Posted by Space Internet Solutions Team | April 15, 2026

The satellite internet race just got a whole lot more interesting. Yesterday, Amazon announced it is acquiring satellite operator Globalstar in a deal valued at approximately $11.57 billion — a major move that signals the tech giant’s serious ambitions in space-based mobile connectivity.

For those following the LEO (Low Earth Orbit) space internet scene, this isn’t just another corporate acquisition. It’s Amazon doubling down on its Project Kuiper (branded as Amazon Leo) to challenge the likes of Starlink, while adding a powerful new weapon: direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services for ordinary mobile phones.

What Exactly Is Amazon Getting?

Globalstar is a pioneer in mobile satellite services (MSS) with a fleet of around 24 satellites in non-geostationary orbit. The acquisition gives Amazon:

•  Globalstar’s existing satellite operations and infrastructure

•  Valuable mobile satellite spectrum licenses with worldwide authorizations

•  Operational expertise in providing critical and emergency communications

•  A ready-made partnership with Apple for satellite features on iPhone and Apple Watch

Amazon will integrate these assets into its growing Amazon Leo constellation. The plan is for Globalstar’s satellites to operate alongside Leo’s broadband system, while Amazon rolls out its own next-generation D2D satellites starting in 2028. This will enable voice, data, messaging, and emergency services directly to standard cell phones — no special hardware required in many cases.

The Apple Connection

One of the most eye-catching parts of the announcement is the continued (and expanded) tie-in with Apple. Amazon Leo will power satellite services for future iPhones and Apple Watches, including the popular Emergency SOS via satellite feature, messaging, Find My, and roadside assistance.

Apple and Amazon have both confirmed that existing Globalstar-powered services on current iPhones won’t change in the short term. But long-term, this positions Amazon as the behind-the-scenes provider for Apple’s satellite ambitions — a huge vote of confidence in the technology.

Why This Matters for the Satellite Internet Industry

At Space Internet Solutions, we install and support satellite broadband systems across the UK, particularly in rural and remote areas where traditional fibre or 5G simply doesn’t reach. Here’s why this deal stands out:

1.  Accelerating Direct-to-Device — Traditional satellite internet (like current Starlink or Kuiper dishes) requires a terminal. D2D aims to bring connectivity straight to your smartphone. Amazon is now fast-tracking this capability, potentially making satellite a seamless backup or extension for mobile networks everywhere.

2.  Spectrum Advantage — Mobile satellite spectrum is a scarce and valuable resource. Securing Globalstar’s global licenses gives Amazon a head start in the cellular-from-space race.

3.  Competition Heats Up — This is widely seen as Amazon’s strongest push yet to catch up with SpaceX’s Starlink, which already offers mobile/direct-to-cell services in partnership with operators like T-Mobile. The battle for global coverage — and the revenue from mobile operators partnering for “gap-filling” — is intensifying.

4.  Timeline Check — The deal is expected to close in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and certain satellite milestones. Amazon’s own next-gen D2D satellites are targeted for deployment from 2028.

What Does This Mean for UK Users and Installers?

For rural UK customers relying on satellite broadband today, the immediate impact is limited — Amazon Leo’s main broadband rollout is still scaling up. However, the long-term vision of ubiquitous mobile coverage via satellite could reduce “not-spots” dramatically, especially in the Scottish Highlands, Welsh mountains, or Norfolk Broads.

We’re particularly excited about potential future hybrid solutions: traditional LEO broadband dishes for high-speed home/office use, combined with D2D for phone backup when you’re out of terrestrial range.

As always in this fast-moving sector, regulatory hurdles (spectrum coordination, orbital debris concerns, and international approvals) will play a big role in how quickly these promises turn into reality.

The Bigger Picture

Amazon’s $11.57 billion “grab” of Globalstar shows that big tech is all-in on space infrastructure. Whether it’s broadband for unconnected communities, emergency services, or seamless global roaming, satellite is moving from niche to mainstream.

At Space Internet Solutions, we’ll be watching closely — and keeping our installers updated on how these developments affect real-world deployments here in the UK.

Have questions about how Amazon Leo or other LEO services might fit into your connectivity setup? Drop us a line or check our latest installer guides.

Stay connected — from the ground or from space.

— The Space Internet Solutions Team