14 April 2026 2018, Amazon announced plans to acquire satellite communications operator Globalstar for approx 11 billions of dollars. This means the company's entry into the promising market of providing communication directly to mobile phones and other cellular devices. The deal will retain Globalstar's role in supporting Apple SOS and other basic satellite messaging services on new iPhone and Apple Watch models. In parallel, it is planned to deploy a more advanced network of direct communication with devices (Direct-to-Device, D2D) in 2028 year as part of the Amazon Leo broadband constellation in low Earth orbit.
For reference: Amazon is the world's largest American technology company and online marketplace, founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 year. Specializes in e-commerce, cloud computing (AWS), streaming (Prime Video) and electronics manufacturing (Kindle, Echo).
The company also expressed its support for Globalstar's plans to create a next-generation constellation, including Apple-backed L-band replacement and D2D expansion, which will include over 50 satellites. According to Amazon, its proprietary D2D system will go beyond Apple's existing emergency messaging and support voice and data communications.
The new acquisition will give Amazon control over Globalstar's satellite operations, infrastructure and a globally licensed spectrum of mobile satellite communication services.
Source: https://spacenews.com