Amazon’s AMZN 0.00%↑ recent purchase of satellite operator Globalstar GSAT 0.00%↑, in a deal valued at $11.6 billion, allowed the company to gain advanced low-Earth orbit positioning and emergency location services that will strengthen its expanding Amazon Leo satellite constellation.
Globalstar’s LEO satellites provide reliable positioning, navigation and timing data, powering critical emergency features such as SOS alerts with precise GPS coordinates. The constellation currently supports Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite on iPhone 14 and later models, as well as Apple Watch Ultra, enabling users in remote or off-grid areas to send emergency texts, share locations, request roadside assistance and connect with rescue services when terrestrial networks are unavailable. Globalstar also offers SPOT GPS messengers for personal safety, asset tracking and two-way messaging in maritime, aviation and wilderness environments.
The acquisition will integrate Globalstar’s mobile satellite services spectrum, infrastructure and operational expertise into Amazon Leo, allowing the addition of direct-to-device connectivity. This includes enhanced emergency location and positioning functions alongside Amazon’s planned broadband services. New Globalstar satellites with expanded capabilities will operate alongside Amazon Leo’s thousands of satellites, accelerating deployment of resilient satellite-based positioning for consumers, enterprises and governments in areas beyond cellular reach.
Panos Panay, Amazon senior vice president of devices and services, said the combination will deliver faster and more reliable connectivity in remote locations. “By combining Globalstar’s proven expertise … customers can expect faster, more reliable service in more places — keeping them connected to the people and things that matter most,” he said.
The deal, expected to close in 2027 subject to regulatory approvals and satellite milestones, also ensures continued support for Apple’s satellite safety features through Amazon Leo.
