Amazon Strengthens Leo Satellite Network with Acquisition of Globalstar, Apple’s Provider

Amazon has several goals for the future. One of these is to strengthen its presence in the satellite internet services sector. The next step to enhance the infrastructure of Leo, with the aim of surpassing competitor Starlink, is represented by the acquisition of Globalstar, recently announced by the American giant and valued at approximately $11.6 billion.

An Important Operation

Globalstar plays a significant role in the satellite internet services sector and is the emergency satellite connectivity service provider for Apple, which offers these services on some iPhone and Apple Watch models. Thanks to Globalstar, Amazon Leo, as announced by the company, will be able to increase its presence and provide direct satellite connectivity services to various devices. It is also noteworthy that Amazon Leo "will provide satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models" as part of an agreement between Amazon and Apple mentioned in the release.

This is an interesting detail: before the operation announced by Amazon, in fact, Apple held a 20% stake in Globalstar, with an acquisition made in 2024 totaling $1.5 billion. At this time, it is unclear if this share is still held by the Cupertino company, which will, however, offer satellite services through Amazon Leo’s network in the future in its products. This announcement could definitively close the possibility of a collaboration with Starlink for Apple.

The agreement for the acquisition of Globalstar is expected to be completed during 2027, and the launch of Amazon Leo’s direct-to-device service, to extend satellite connectivity to a larger number of users, will not arrive before 2028.

Panos Panay, Senior Vice President of Devices and Services at Amazon, commented on the acquisition: "By combining Globalstar's proven expertise and solid foundation with Amazon's customer focus and innovation, customers can expect faster, more reliable service in more locations, staying connected to the people and things that matter most. We are excited to support Apple users through the Leo D2D system and look forward to collaborating with mobile network partners to help extend coverage to every corner of the planet."