Apple chooses Amazon satellites for iPhone, years after rejecting Starlink offer

April 15, 2026

TL;DR

Amazon is acquiring satellite operator Globalstar for an estimated $11.6 billion to strengthen its Amazon Leo satellite network.
Amazon has also entered into an agreement with Apple to provide satellite service for iPhones and Apple Watches.
The Globalstar deal will help Amazon enter the Direct-to-Device (D2D) market, enabling satellite connectivity for mobile phones.
The current Globalstar service supports emergency texting, messaging, roadside assistance, and location sharing on compatible Apple devices.
Amazon plans to continue supporting existing Apple devices and collaborate on future satellite services using Amazon Leo's expanded network.
Globalstar stockholders can choose between $90 cash per share or a capped value of $90.00 in Amazon common stock.
Amazon's satellite network, Leo, has deployed 241 satellites so far, with plans for over 3,000.
Globalstar operates 24 satellites and will add 48 more with its third-generation system.
Amazon's direct-to-device satellite system is scheduled to deploy in 2028, offering voice, data, and messaging services.
Amazon Leo is scheduled to launch its satellite network in mid-2026 with revenue commitments from enterprises and governments.
The acquisition requires Federal Communications Commission approval, and Amazon and SpaceX have had previous regulatory disputes.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr expressed openness to the Amazon/Globalstar deal, seeing it as consistent with a vision for US leadership in direct-to-cell technologies.

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