Amazon.com Inc. announced today it has reached an agreement to acquire Globalstar Inc., a mobile satellite services provider, in a transaction that will integrate Globalstar’s satellite operations, infrastructure, assets, and spectrum licenses into Amazon’s expanding low Earth orbit satellite network known as Amazon Leo. The move, announced on April 14, 2026, aims to enhance direct-to-device connectivity capabilities, allowing cellular services to reach areas without traditional ground-based networks. As part of the broader initiative, Amazon has also signed an agreement with Apple Inc. under which Amazon Leo will provide the satellite backbone for certain features on compatible iPhone and Apple Watch models.
The acquisition represents a significant step in Amazon’s efforts to build out its satellite infrastructure. Amazon Leo is designed as a low Earth orbit constellation intended to deliver high-speed internet access to regions currently underserved by terrestrial broadband. By incorporating Globalstar’s existing satellite fleet and expertise in non-geostationary orbit technology, the combined network will support direct-to-device services that extend voice, text, and data capabilities to standard mobile phones and other cellular devices. Globalstar, which has operated as a provider of satellite-based communications for decades, brings established spectrum authorizations and operational know-how that will complement Amazon’s planned satellite deployments.
“There are billions of customers out there living, traveling, and operating in places beyond the reach of existing networks, and we started Amazon Leo to help bridge that divide,” said Panos Panay, Senior Vice President of Devices & Services, Amazon. “By combining Globalstar’s proven expertise and strong foundation with Amazon’s customer-obsession and innovation, customers can expect faster, more reliable service in more places—keeping them connected to the people and things that matter most. We’re excited to support Apple users through the Leo D2D system, and look forward to working with mobile network partners to help extend coverage to every corner of the planet.”
Under the terms of the merger, Globalstar shareholders will have the option to receive $90 in cash per share or approximately 0.3210 shares of Amazon common stock per share, subject to a cap that limits cash elections to 40 percent of the total shares outstanding. Any excess cash elections will be converted to stock on a pro-rata basis. The overall value of the deal could be adjusted downward by up to $110 million depending on Globalstar’s achievement of specific operational milestones related to its satellite program. Shareholders representing a majority of Globalstar’s voting power have already approved the transaction through a written consent. The deal is expected to close in 2027, pending regulatory approvals and the successful completion of certain satellite-related milestones.
A key element of the announcement involves Amazon’s collaboration with Apple. Globalstar has previously supported satellite connectivity features on iPhone 14 and later models, as well as on Apple Watch Ultra 3, enabling functions such as emergency messaging, location sharing, roadside assistance requests, and communication with contacts in areas lacking cellular coverage. The new agreement shifts responsibility for powering these services to Amazon Leo, utilizing both Globalstar’s current satellites—some manufactured by MDA Space—and future additions to the network. Deployment of Amazon’s dedicated direct-to-device system is scheduled to begin in 2028, promising improved spectrum efficiency, higher data speeds, and more reliable performance compared to earlier satellite technologies.
The integration is expected to create a unified satellite platform that combines broadband services with mobile connectivity options. Amazon Leo’s overall constellation will eventually consist of thousands of advanced satellites operating in low Earth orbit, designed to serve hundreds of millions of endpoints for consumer, enterprise, and government applications. This includes support for remote work, asset tracking, supply chain management, and emergency response operations. The system will also provide redundancy during terrestrial network disruptions caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, or floods, thereby contributing to overall communications resilience in affected regions.
Globalstar’s portfolio includes not only satellite communications but also related technologies for private wireless networks and location-based services. Its spectrum holdings, which hold global authorizations, will allow the combined entity to pursue partnerships with mobile carriers worldwide. Amazon has indicated plans to work with such operators to deliver integrated voice, messaging, and data solutions directly to consumer devices in remote or transitional coverage zones.
The deal comes amid broader competition in the satellite communications sector, where companies are racing to deploy constellations capable of serving both fixed broadband and mobile users. Amazon’s approach emphasizes scalability and integration with existing device ecosystems, as evidenced by the Apple partnership. By securing access to proven satellite hardware and spectrum through Globalstar, Amazon positions its Leo network to support a wider array of use cases, from individual consumers in rural areas to large-scale enterprise deployments.
