Apple selects Amazon satellites for iPhone and Apple Watch connectivity
Amazon acquires Globalstar and signs a deal with Apple to deliver satellite connectivity to iPhones and Apple Watches. The agreement makes Amazon the primary satellite provider for Apple devices.
Apple has selected Amazon's satellite network to deliver connectivity to iPhone and Apple Watch. The move is part of two major agreements Amazon announced today, marking a strategic push into the Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite market.
Amazon will acquire satellite operator Globalstar for an estimated $11.6 billion. Globalstar previously partnered with Apple to enable emergency messaging on iPhone. The acquisition strengthens Amazon's Project Leo, formerly known as Kuiper Systems, its effort to compete with SpaceX's Starlink.
"Amazon and Apple have signed an agreement to provide satellite connectivity for current and future iPhone and Apple Watch features," Amazon stated. Panos Panay, Amazon's senior VP of devices and services, confirmed the company will become the "primary satellite service provider for iPhone and Apple Watch."
D2D technology allows satellites to connect directly to mobile devices without relying on ground-based cell towers. This is critical for emergency alerts, location services, and communication in remote areas or during infrastructure outages.
Globalstar operates satellites in low Earth orbit and already supports Apple's emergency SOS via satellite feature. Integrating it into Amazon Leo accelerates the deployment of a more capable network. Upgrades will include broader coverage, faster response times, and expanded bandwidth.
Amazon will become the primary satellite service provider for iPhone and Apple Watch.
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