Apple and Amazon unite to challenge Starlink's smartphone goals

Amazon has secured a deal to purchase Globalstar’s low-Earth orbit satellite network for $11.57 billion.

This includes acquiring its spectrum licenses, operations, and assets to merge with its future Leo internet satellite constellation.

Apple had a 20% stake in Globalstar, and under this agreement, Amazon will uphold satellite services like Emergency SOS for iPhones and Apple Watches, while also creating new services connecting them to its Leo satellite network.

The agreement is anticipated to finalise in 2027, subject to regulatory approval.

Globalstar currently offers direct-to-device services for iPhones and Apple Watches. This differs from Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell (also known as Starlink Mobile) service, which collaborates with carriers to supply messaging services.

In the United States, Starlink partners with T-Mobile, and other partnerships extend internationally.

Amazon’s announcement indicates its intent to achieve a blend of services, aiming to collaborate with mobile network operators to “fulfill that vision and extend dependable, fast connectivity to customers worldwide, wherever they may be.”

By the end of 2025, SpaceX reported having over 650 satellites equipped for cellular services in orbit, out of approximately 10,000 Starlink satellites. Globalstar’s low-Earth orbit system consists of around 25 active satellites.

Last month, Amazon announced it was progressing to increase its annual launch capacity for Leo, which currently has more than 200 satellites in orbit, with plans to establish a network of over 3,200 satellites.