FCC Approves Amazon Leo's $11.5 Billion Acquisition of Globalstar
The FCC has approved (PDF) Amazon Leo's $11.5 billion acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar, giving the Starlink rival additional infrastructure and spectrum to expand into direct-to-device satellite connectivity. Engadget reports: You may not know Globalstar but have possibly used its services, as the company provides Apple's emergency satellite connectivity for compatible iPhones and…
The Federal Communications Commission has greenlit Amazon's $11.5 billion acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar, expanding Leo's infrastructure and spectrum to offer direct-to-device satellite connectivity. Although many may not be familiar with Globalstar, the company has provided emergency satellite connectivity for Apple iPhones and Watches. Interestingly, Apple had a 20 percent stake in Globalstar prior to the takeover.
With this deal, Leo will provide satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models. Currently, Leo operates 400 satellites in orbit and recently launched high-quality satellite internet service in Uzbekistan. The company is also partnering with Delta to bring satellite internet to flights in the future.
Amazon has recently added six new Arianespace launches and aims to have over 3,000 low-earth orbit satellites in the near future, still falling short of SpaceX's 11,000 satellites.
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