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Apr 16, 20260 views2 min read

Amazon Acquires Globalstar for $11.57 Billion to Compete with SpaceX Starlink

Amazon announced the acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.57 billion, rebranding its Project Kuiper as Amazon Leo. The deal gives Amazon access to Globalstar's low-Earth orbit satellites and direct-to-device technology. Amazon also partnered with Apple to provide satellite connectivity for future iPhone and Apple Watch models.

Amazon Acquires Globalstar for $11.57 Billion to Compete with SpaceX Starlink
Source:TechStartups

Amazon announced the acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.57 billion this month, rebranding its Project Kuiper satellite internet initiative as Amazon Leo.

The deal gives Amazon access to Globalstar's existing low-Earth orbit satellites and its direct-to-device technology, which allows smartphones to connect to satellites without specialized hardware. Amazon said the acquisition will help it expand cellular coverage and compete directly with SpaceX's Starlink service.

Amazon also announced a partnership with Apple to provide satellite connectivity for future iPhone and Apple Watch models. The partnership would allow Apple devices to use Amazon Leo's network for emergency communications and basic connectivity in areas without cellular coverage.

SpaceX's Starlink currently serves millions of customers worldwide and has expanded into direct-to-cell service in partnership with T-Mobile. Amazon's acquisition of Globalstar is seen as a direct response to Starlink's growing market position.

The deal is subject to regulatory approval. Analysts said the acquisition significantly accelerates Amazon's timeline for building a competitive satellite internet service, since Globalstar already has operational satellites and regulatory licenses in multiple countries.

Amazon has been building Project Kuiper since 2019 but has faced delays in launching its satellite constellation. The company has committed to launching thousands of satellites to provide global broadband coverage.

The acquisition comes as the satellite internet market is growing rapidly, driven by demand for connectivity in rural areas and from airlines, shipping companies, and government agencies.

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