Amazon has acquired Globalstar, a move that is expected to strengthen its position in the satellite communications space and support services like Apple’s emergency SOS satellite features.
Amazon has finalized a major deal to acquire satellite telecommunications company Globalstar for approximately $11.57 billion.
The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing space-based internet sector and compete directly with SpaceX’s Starlink network.
The deal gives Amazon access to Globalstar’s existing network of around two dozen low-Earth orbit satellites, along with key radio frequency spectrum licenses.
Announced on Tuesday, April 15, the agreement allows Globalstar shareholders to choose either $90 per share in cash or receive Amazon stock of equal capped value.
The Globalstar network currently supports Apple’s “Emergency SOS via satellite” feature on iPhones and Apple Watches. Under a separate agreement, Amazon and Apple have agreed that Amazon’s satellite division, Amazon Leo, will continue providing satellite-based safety services such as emergency messaging, location sharing, and roadside assistance for eligible devices.
Amazon’s satellite communications arm, Amazon Leo, plans to begin launching its second-generation direct-to-device satellite network from 2028. The company already operates more than 200 satellites in orbit and aims to expand its constellation to around 3,200 satellites by 2029.
Globalstar CEO Paul Jacobs said the company has long believed that low Earth orbit satellite constellations represent the most effective way to connect users and devices anywhere at any time.
The deal has received approval from 58% of voting shareholders and is expected to close in 2027, pending regulatory approvals and required satellite deployment milestones.
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