On October 27, 2026, the FCC cleared Amazon Leo's 11.5 billion dollar acquisition of Globalstar. This FAQ covers the deal terms, spectrum assets, Apple's transition service and the 145-day fast-track approval.
What exactly does the 11.5 billion dollar deal buy?
Reuters reported (via IThome) that on October 27 local time the FCC approved Amazon Leo's 11.5 billion dollar (about 76.832 billion yuan) acquisition of Globalstar. Core assets include about 24 in-orbit satellites, mobile satellite spectrum, and the previously approved Globalstar C-3 system, which the merged company may use to build and launch new satellites after closing. Filed reports relaying Reuters identify about 25 MHz of International Mobile Satellite Service (IMSS) spectrum as the key cleared asset.
Why did the FCC approve now, and how long did the review take?
Sina Finance noted the market sees the decision as a 145-day fast-track approval, less than five months from filing to clearance. FCC Chair Brendan Carr said in an official statement that the approval helps Amazon Leo launch next-generation high-speed satellite broadband and promotes competition (as relayed by IThome). The fast review reflects a U.S. policy window pushing direct-to-device satellite services forward.
Why does Amazon urgently need Globalstar, and what does direct-to-device (D2D) mean?
Reuters reported (via IThome) that Amazon Leo has launched nearly 400 satellites since April 2025 and plans to deploy thousands in low Earth orbit by 2029; it applied to the FCC in July to deploy up to 5,105 satellites. Amazon has committed over 10 billion dollars to Leo and plans commercial satellite communications service by the end of 2026. Direct-to-device means ordinary phones connect to satellites without ground stations, closing Amazon's gap in consumer-facing connectivity.
What is Apple's relationship with Globalstar, and will iPhone SOS service be interrupted after the acquisition?
Reuters reported (via IThome) that Globalstar provides satellite safety features such as SOS emergency calling and Find My for iPhone and Apple Watch; Amazon has signed an agreement with Apple to keep these services running after the deal. Apple invested about 1.5 billion dollars in Globalstar in 2024 for a 20 percent stake, a business that contributed about 63 percent of Globalstar's revenue last year; Amazon plans to buy Apple's shares.
Where does Amazon's satellite fleet stand versus Starlink?
Reuters reported (via IThome) that Amazon now has nearly 400 satellites in orbit, plans thousands by 2029, and applied in July for up to 5,105. With Globalstar's roughly 24 satellites (its new network has grown from about 24 to 54 with Apple's support), Amazon still lags Starlink by a generation in fleet size, but the IMSS spectrum and C-3 system give it a regulatory foothold in the D2D race.
What are the next key milestones?
Reuters reported (via IThome) that the FCC will vote on October 29 local time whether to advance a new wireless spectrum auction to drive direct-to-device services; Amazon plans commercial satellite communications service by the end of 2026. After closing, Amazon is also expected to proceed with buying Apple's 20 percent Globalstar stake.