Amazon Leo has received approval from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its proposed $11.5 billion acquisition of Globalstar, marking a regulatory milestone in Amazon’s plans to expand satellite connectivity. The deal would add an established satellite network and spectrum assets to Amazon’s developing low Earth orbit system, supporting its ambitions in broadband and direct-to-device communications.
Key Takeaways
- The FCC approved Amazon’s proposed $11.5 billion acquisition of Globalstar on October 27, 2026.
- Globalstar would bring an operating satellite network, ground infrastructure and mobile-satellite spectrum to Amazon.
- Globalstar currently supports satellite features on compatible Apple devices, and Amazon has agreed to continue those services.
- The acquisition would support Amazon Leo’s direct-to-device plans alongside its satellite broadband network.
- FCC approval does not mean the acquisition has closed; integration and other transaction steps remain.
FCC Approval Moves the Globalstar Deal Forward
The FCC’s October 27 decision approved the transfer of Globalstar licenses and authorizations associated with Amazon’s proposed acquisition. It concludes the agency’s review of the transaction, although the companies must still complete the steps required to close the deal.
Globalstar holds licenses for satellite communications and operates network infrastructure that already supports commercial services. Bringing those assets into Amazon’s portfolio would expand the resources available to Amazon Leo as it develops connectivity beyond conventional terrestrial networks.
A transaction involving a regulated communications network entails more than the purchase of satellites. Spectrum rights, operating authorizations, customer contracts and service commitments all require attention when ownership changes. These considerations reflect how telecommunications regulation shapes acquisitions across the industry.
The approval is therefore an important step, but Amazon’s ability to use the acquired assets will also depend on the transaction’s completion and subsequent operational planning.
Globalstar Adds Satellite Infrastructure and Spectrum
Globalstar operates a low Earth orbit satellite network supported by ground systems that enable communications with compatible devices. Its spectrum holdings are particularly relevant to direct-to-device services, which allow supported phones and other equipment to connect through satellites when terrestrial coverage is unavailable.
Under the proposed acquisition, Amazon would gain control of Globalstar’s existing infrastructure and licensed spectrum. Those resources could complement Amazon Leo’s planned broadband network, although the systems have different technical designs and service requirements. Integrating them will require decisions about equipment compatibility, network operations and spectrum use.
Globalstar also provides the satellite connectivity behind features on compatible Apple devices, including Emergency SOS and Find My. Amazon and Apple have agreed to maintain those services under their arrangements, making continuity for existing users a practical consideration as the acquisition moves toward completion.
The deal would give Amazon both existing services to maintain and additional capabilities to develop. How effectively it manages those responsibilities will shape the role Globalstar’s assets play in Amazon Leo’s wider network.
Amazon Leo Expands Its Broadband and Direct-to-Device Plans
Amazon Leo is developing a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites to deliver broadband connectivity to consumers, businesses and organizations. Delivering that service requires more than spacecraft: ground stations, customer equipment and network management systems must operate together to connect users to the internet.
The Globalstar deal would add an established mobile-satellite operation to Amazon’s own development program. Satellite broadband and direct-to-device communications address different use cases, so the acquisition does not make the two networks automatically interchangeable. Instead, Amazon would have to determine how each system supports its planned services.
Amazon is expanding in a market that already includes SpaceX’s Starlink network. SpaceX’s satellite communications and launch operations are part of a broader aerospace business, while Amazon is combining its own satellite deployment program with the proposed acquisition of Globalstar’s network and spectrum.
Amazon’s continued satellite launches, ground infrastructure development and service preparations will remain central to its expansion. The acquisition could broaden its connectivity options, but the timing and performance of new services will depend on deployment and integration.
Integration Remains the Next Operational Challenge
FCC approval addresses a key regulatory requirement, not the full work involved in bringing two satellite operations together. Once the acquisition is completed, Amazon will need to coordinate Globalstar’s existing systems and customer commitments with its own technical and commercial plans.
Differences in satellite architecture, authorized frequencies and equipment requirements may influence how the networks are managed. Maintaining existing Apple services while preparing additional direct-to-device capabilities will be particularly important.
For Amazon Leo, the proposed acquisition offers a larger base of satellite infrastructure and spectrum. Turning those assets into expanded coverage and dependable services will depend on how effectively the company completes the transaction and integrates the operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Amazon’s Globalstar acquisition worth?
The proposed acquisition is valued at approximately $11.5 billion.
Which regulator approved the deal?
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission approved the transfer of Globalstar licenses and authorizations involved in the transaction on October 27, 2026.
Does FCC approval mean the acquisition is complete?
No. FCC approval completes the agency’s review, but the transaction must still close before Amazon takes ownership of Globalstar.
What Apple services does Globalstar support?
Globalstar’s network supports satellite features on compatible Apple devices, including Emergency SOS and Find My. Amazon and Apple have agreed to continue these services.
What is Amazon Leo developing?
Amazon Leo is building a low Earth orbit satellite broadband network and pursuing direct-to-device connectivity, which would allow compatible devices to connect through satellites beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
