Key facts
- Amazon's Leo has proposed a constellation of up to 5,105 satellites for direct-to-device voice and data connectivity.
- Amazon will acquire Globalstar, Inc., gaining its satellite operations, spectrum licenses, and infrastructure.
- Amazon Leo aims to extend cellular coverage to customers beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
- An agreement is in place for Amazon Leo to power satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models.
- Amazon Leo plans to deploy its own next-generation D2D satellite system beginning in 2028.
- The Amazon Leo constellation utilizes a three-shell architecture and features the Prometheus baseband chip.
Amazon's Leo satellite constellation has proposed a new network of up to 5,105 satellites designed to provide direct-to-device voice and data connectivity. This initiative, part of Amazon's long-term vision for space-based connectivity, aims to bridge the gap for billions of customers living and traveling in areas beyond the reach of existing terrestrial networks.
As part of this expansion, Amazon has entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire Globalstar, Inc. This acquisition will integrate Globalstar's existing satellite operations, infrastructure, and crucial MSS spectrum licenses into Amazon's network. The combined capabilities are intended to enable Amazon Leo to deliver continuous connectivity for consumer, enterprise, and government customers worldwide.
Furthermore, Amazon and Apple have announced an agreement for Amazon Leo to power satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models. This collaboration will allow users to text emergency services, message friends and family, and request roadside assistance, among other features, enhancing safety and connectivity for Apple users.
Amazon plans to deploy its own next-generation direct-to-device (D2D) satellite system beginning in 2028. This system is engineered to deliver advanced voice, data, and messaging services. The Amazon Leo constellation itself is a low Earth orbit broadband internet constellation operated by Kuiper Systems LLC, a subsidiary of Amazon. It is licensed by the FCC for 3,236 satellites across three altitude shells, with plans for a Gen2 expansion of an additional 4,500 satellites, bringing the total to 7,727. Each satellite is equipped with Amazon's custom Prometheus baseband chip and features optical inter-satellite links for high-speed data transfer between satellites.