Satellite signal straight to the phone: U.S. clears Amazon's purchase of Globalstar

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission on Tuesday approved the acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar by Amazon Leo, Amazon's satellite network formerly known as Project Kuiper. Reuters put the value of the deal at $11.57 billion; when it was announced in April, the figure was $10.8 billion, according to Via Satellite. Amazon gains about two dozen Globalstar satellites in low Earth orbit, mobile satellite spectrum and ground infrastructure, as well as Globalstar's agreement with Apple.

The aim is so-called direct-to-device service, in which satellites connect directly to ordinary mobile phones. The FCC said the deal would facilitate Amazon's entry into such services and serve the public interest, for example by improving coverage in underserved areas and emergency communications. SpaceX's Starlink leads the segment. Amazon plans a next-generation platform for voice, text and data in 2028, and the FCC is reviewing an application for a system of more than 5,100 satellites.

According to Reuters, Amazon Leo has launched more than 300 satellites since April 2025 and aims to deploy about 3,200 by 2029. The FCC rejected an objection from a former Globalstar business partner. Amazon did not say when it expects the deal to close.