Trending

    Amazon Acquires Globalstar for $10.8 Billion to Enhance Satellite Internet Services

    Section editor: ·High27 articles covering this·21 news sources·Updated a month ago·World
    Share:
    Amazon Acquires Globalstar for $10.8 Billion to Enhance Satellite Internet Services

    Here's what it means for you.

    As Amazon accelerates its satellite internet ambitions, consumers could see enhanced connectivity options in remote areas.

    Why it matters

    This acquisition positions Amazon to compete directly with SpaceX's Starlink, reshaping the satellite internet landscape.

    What happened (in 30 seconds)

    • Amazon announced its acquisition of Globalstar for $10.8 billion, integrating its satellite assets into Project Kuiper.
    • The deal includes cash and stock valued at $90 per share, enhancing Amazon's capabilities in direct-to-device services.
    • Regulatory approvals are pending, with the acquisition expected to close in 2027.

    The context you actually need

    • Project Kuiper was initiated by Amazon in 2019 to deploy over 3,000 low-Earth orbit satellites aimed at providing global broadband.
    • Globalstar operates a constellation of approximately 24 satellites, previously collaborating with Apple for emergency connectivity features.
    • The competitive landscape is intensifying, with Starlink already serving millions and holding significant government contracts.

    What's really happening

    Amazon's acquisition of Globalstar is a strategic move to bolster its Project Kuiper initiative, which aims to provide global broadband through a network of low-Earth orbit satellites. The $10.8 billion deal, which values Globalstar at $90 per share, allows Amazon to integrate Globalstar's satellite technology and spectrum assets, enhancing its capabilities in direct-to-device voice, data, and messaging services. This integration is crucial as Amazon seeks to catch up with SpaceX's Starlink, which has already established a significant market presence with thousands of satellites and millions of subscribers.

    The acquisition is not just about expanding Amazon's satellite capabilities; it also reflects a broader trend in the tech industry where major players are investing heavily in satellite technology to meet the growing demand for connectivity. With the increasing reliance on digital services, especially in remote areas, the need for robust satellite internet solutions is more pressing than ever. Amazon's move is expected to expedite the rollout of consumer satellite services, projected for launch in 2028, thereby addressing a critical gap in the market.

    Moreover, the deal strengthens Amazon's existing partnership with Apple, which has already leveraged Globalstar's technology for emergency SOS features in iPhones. This collaboration could lead to further innovations in device integration, enhancing user experiences across Amazon's ecosystem. The acquisition also comes at a time when the U.S. is witnessing a geopolitical race for satellite connectivity, with companies like SpaceX and Amazon vying for dominance in this emerging sector.

    As the acquisition awaits regulatory approval, analysts predict heightened competition in the satellite sector, particularly with Starlink, which has secured significant government contracts and boasts a valuation exceeding $1 trillion. The market's reaction has been positive, with Globalstar shares rising over 10% and Amazon's stock increasing by approximately 5% following the announcement. This indicates investor confidence in the strategic direction of both companies and the potential for substantial returns in the satellite internet market.

    Who feels it first (and how)

    • Consumers in remote areas: They may gain access to improved internet services, enhancing connectivity.
    • Tech companies: Competitors like SpaceX will feel pressure to innovate and expand their offerings.
    • Investors: Those in the satellite sector may see increased interest and valuation shifts as competition intensifies.

    What to watch next

    • Regulatory approvals: The timeline and conditions set by the FCC and antitrust authorities will impact the acquisition's finalization.
    • Service rollout timelines: Watch for announcements regarding the launch of consumer satellite services in 2028.
    • Market reactions: Monitor stock performance and investor sentiment in the satellite sector as competition heats up.
    Known:

    Amazon's acquisition of Globalstar is valued at $10.8 billion.

    Likely:

    Enhanced satellite internet services will be available by 2028.

    Unclear:

    The full impact of regulatory reviews on the acquisition timeline and conditions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why it matters?
    This acquisition positions Amazon to compete directly with SpaceX's Starlink, reshaping the satellite internet landscape.
    What happened (in 30 seconds)?
    Amazon announced its acquisition of Globalstar for $10.8 billion, integrating its satellite assets into Project Kuiper. The deal includes cash and stock valued at $90 per share, enhancing Amazon's capabilities in direct-to-device services. Regulatory approvals are pending, with the acquisition expected to close in 2027.
    What's really happening?
    Amazon's acquisition of Globalstar is a strategic move to bolster its Project Kuiper initiative, which aims to provide global broadband through a network of low-Earth orbit satellites. The $10.8 billion deal, which values Globalstar at $90 per share, allows Amazon to integrate Globalstar's satellite technology and spectrum assets, enhancing its capabilities in direct-to-device voice, data, and messaging services. This integration is crucial as Amazon seeks to catch up with SpaceX's Starlink, whi
    Who feels it first (and how)?
    Consumers in remote areas: They may gain access to improved internet services, enhancing connectivity. Tech companies: Competitors like SpaceX will feel pressure to innovate and expand their offerings. Investors: Those in the satellite sector may see increased interest and valuation shifts as competition intensifies.
    What to watch next?
    Regulatory approvals: The timeline and conditions set by the FCC and antitrust authorities will impact the acquisition's finalization. Service rollout timelines: Watch for announcements regarding the launch of consumer satellite services in 2028. Market reactions: Monitor stock performance and investor sentiment in the satellite sector as competition heats up.
    27 Articles
    Techmeme

    Apple endorses the ~$11.6B Amazon-Globalstar deal, citing a "proven track record" with Amazon infrastructure; Apple holds a ~20% stake in Globalstar (Mark Gurman/Bloomberg)

    Apple Inc. has endorsed Amazon.com Inc.'s acquisition of Globalstar Inc. for approximately $11.6 billion, highlighting a strong partnership with Amazon's infrastructure. This acquisition is expected to enhance Amazon's satellite operations and improv...

    Hacker News

    Amazon to acquire Globalstar and expand Amazon Leo satellite network

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite communications company, for approximately $11.6 billion. This strategic move aims to enhance Amazon's satellite internet service, known as Amazon Leo, which is set to launch by mid-2026 ...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon-Globalstar Deal Is Poised to Boost Apple’s Satellite Ambitions

    Amazon.com Inc. has finalized its acquisition of Globalstar Inc., a satellite internet provider, in a deal valued at $11.6 billion. This acquisition is expected to enhance Amazon's satellite operations and improve its competitive edge in the satellit...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon-Globalstar Deal Is Poised to Boost Apple’s Satellite Ambitions

    Amazon.com Inc. has finalized its acquisition of Globalstar Inc., a satellite internet provider, in a deal valued at $11.6 billion. This acquisition is expected to enhance Amazon's satellite operations and improve its competitive edge in the satellit...

    BBC News

    Amazon to spend $11bn on satellite firm in growing Starlink rivalry

    Amazon has announced plans to invest $11 billion in acquiring Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications company, as part of its strategy to enhance its satellite internet service, Amazon Leo, which aims to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink. This acq...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon’s $11.6 Billion Globalstar Deal Amps Up Musk Rivalry

    Amazon.com Inc. has finalized an $11.6 billion acquisition of Globalstar Inc., a satellite communications company, intensifying competition with Elon Musk's Starlink in the satellite internet market. This deal is part of Amazon's strategy to bolster ...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon’s $11.6 Billion Globalstar Deal Amps Up Musk Rivalry

    Amazon.com Inc. has finalized an $11.6 billion acquisition of Globalstar Inc., a satellite communications company, intensifying competition with Elon Musk's Starlink in the satellite internet market. This deal is part of Amazon's strategy to bolster ...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon to Buy Globalstar for $11.6 Billion | Bloomberg Tech 4/14/2026

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, marking a significant strategic move to enhance its satellite internet service capabilities. This acquisition is seen as a direct effort to compete...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon to Buy Globalstar for $11.6 Billion | Bloomberg Tech 4/14/2026

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, marking a significant strategic move to enhance its satellite internet service capabilities. This acquisition is seen as a direct effort to compete...

    CNET

    Amazon Leo Boosts Its Race With Starlink, With a Deal to Connect iPhones

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite service provider, for approximately $10.8 billion, as part of its strategy to enhance its satellite internet service, Leo, which aims to connect iPhones and other devices. This move is s...

    Ars Technica — All

    Apple chooses Amazon satellites for iPhone, years after rejecting Starlink offer

    Amazon has announced a significant merger with Globalstar, acquiring the satellite communications company for approximately $11.6 billion. This deal will enable Amazon to enhance its satellite internet service, Leo, which aims to provide connectivity...

    Ars Technica

    Apple chooses Amazon satellites for iPhone, years after rejecting Starlink offer

    Amazon has announced a significant merger with Globalstar, acquiring the satellite communications company for approximately $11.6 billion. This deal will enable Amazon to enhance its satellite internet service, Leo, which aims to provide connectivity...

    Investing.com

    Amazon to buy satellite firm Globalstar in $11.57 billion deal to take on Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon has finalized an $11.57 billion acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications company, as part of its strategy to enhance its satellite internet capabilities and compete with Elon Musk's Starlink. This deal will provide Amazon acce...

    TechSpot

    Amazon purchases Globalstar for $11.6B to expand its low Earth orbit satellite network

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, a strategic move aimed at enhancing its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network and related infrastructure. The deal, which values Globalstar at $9...

    The New York Times - Technology

    Amazon Buys Globalstar for $10.8 Billion, Movingto Expand Its Satellite Internet Service

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite communications company, for $10.8 billion, as part of its strategy to enhance its satellite internet service and compete with Elon Musk's Starlink. This move is expected to bolster Amazo...

    The New York Times

    Amazon Buys Globalstar for $10.8 Billion, Movingto Expand Its Satellite Internet Service

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite communications company, for $10.8 billion, as part of its strategy to enhance its satellite internet service and compete with Elon Musk's Starlink. This move is expected to bolster Amazo...

    NYT — Technology

    Amazon Buys Globalstar for $10.8 Billion, Movingto Expand Its Satellite Internet Service

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite communications company, for $10.8 billion, as part of its strategy to enhance its satellite internet service and compete with Elon Musk's Starlink. This move is expected to bolster Amazo...

    The Wall Street Journal

    Why Amazon Is Buying Starlink Rival Globalstar in $11 Billion Deal

    Amazon has finalized an $11 billion acquisition of Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications company, to enhance its Amazon Leo satellite network, enabling direct-to-device connections. This strategic move positions Amazon to compete more effectivel...

    عالم التقنية (AITnews)

    أمازون تنافس ستارلينك بالاستحواذ على شركة الأقمار الصناعية Globalstar

    Amazon has announced an agreement to acquire the satellite communications company Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, marking one of its largest deals to date. This acquisition aims to enhance Amazon's presence in the competitive satellite in...

    The Guardian

    Amazon to buy satellite firm Globalstar for $11.57bn in challenge to Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon has announced its intention to acquire satellite company Globalstar for $11.57 billion, pending regulatory approval, which will enhance its satellite network capabilities with access to Globalstar's two dozen satellites. This move positions Am...

    The Guardian Technology

    Amazon to buy satellite firm Globalstar for $11.57bn in challenge to Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite communications company Globalstar for approximately $11.57 billion, a strategic move aimed at enhancing its satellite internet service capabilities and competing with Elon Musk's Starlink. The deal, p...

    The Guardian – Science

    Amazon to buy satellite firm Globalstar for $11.57bn in challenge to Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon has announced its intention to acquire satellite company Globalstar for $11.57 billion, pending regulatory approval, which will enhance its satellite network capabilities with access to Globalstar's two dozen satellites. This move positions Am...

    The Guardian

    Amazon to buy satellite firm Globalstar for $11.57bn in challenge to Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon has announced its intention to acquire satellite company Globalstar for $11.57 billion, pending regulatory approval, which will enhance its satellite network capabilities with access to Globalstar's two dozen satellites. This move positions Am...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon to Buy Satellite Operator Globalstar for $11.6 Billion

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, marking its largest acquisition since the purchase of Whole Foods in 2017. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Amazon's capabilities in the s...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon to Buy Satellite Operator Globalstar for $11.6 Billion

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, marking its largest acquisition since the purchase of Whole Foods in 2017. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Amazon's capabilities in the s...

    Asharq Al-Awsat

    «أمازون» تتحدى «ستارلينك» بصفقة كبرى للاستحواذ على «غلوبال ستار»

    Amazon.com announced on Tuesday its agreement to acquire Globalstar, a satellite company, in a deal valued at $11.57 billion. This acquisition marks a significant move for Amazon as it seeks to enhance its satellite communications capabilities and co...

    TechCrunch

    Amazon to buy Globalstar for $11.57B in bid to flesh out its satellite biz

    Amazon has agreed to acquire satellite company Globalstar for $11.57 billion in cash, a move aimed at expanding its satellite business and enhancing its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite program, known as Leo. This acquisition is expected to close in 2...

    Engadget

    Amazon buys the satellite internet company behind Apple’s SOS system

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite internet provider Globalstar Inc., a company known for providing emergency satellite connectivity for Apple devices. This merger aims to enhance Amazon's satellite internet service, Leo, which is set ...

    Engadget

    Amazon buys the satellite internet company behind Apple’s SOS system

    Amazon has announced its acquisition of satellite internet provider Globalstar Inc., a company known for providing emergency satellite connectivity for Apple devices. This merger aims to enhance Amazon's satellite internet service, Leo, which is set ...

    Al Khaleej

    أمازون تستحوذ على «غلوبال ستار» مقابل 90 دولاراً للسهم

    Amazon has finalized a deal to acquire Globalstar for $90 per share, a strategic move aimed at enhancing its growing satellite internet business and competing with Elon Musk's projects in this sector. Following the announcement, Globalstar's shares r...

    The Next Web — Neural

    Amazon agrees to acquire Globalstar in an $11.6B deal

    Amazon has agreed to acquire Globalstar for $11.6 billion, a deal that will enhance its satellite capabilities and support the launch of its satellite internet service, Amazon Leo, set for mid-2026. This acquisition compresses years of development in...

    Techmeme

    Amazon agrees to pay $11.57B for Globalstar, or $90/share in cash or Amazon stock, assuming Globalstar meets certain HIBLEO-4 replacement satellite milestones (Reuters)

    Amazon has agreed to acquire Globalstar for $11.57 billion, or $90 per share, contingent upon Globalstar achieving specific milestones related to its HIBLEO-4 replacement satellites. This acquisition is part of Amazon's strategy to enhance its satell...

    Techmeme

    Amazon agrees to buy satellite operator Globalstar, set to close in 2027, to expand Leo; Amazon and Apple agree for Leo to power some iPhone and Watch services (About Amazon)

    Amazon has announced a definitive merger agreement to acquire satellite operator Globalstar, with the deal expected to close in 2027. This acquisition aims to enhance Amazon's low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite program, known as Leo, which is set to lau...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon to Buy Satellite Operator Globalstar for $90 a Share

    Amazon.com Inc. has agreed to acquire satellite operator Globalstar Inc. for $90 per share, a strategic move aimed at enhancing its satellite operations. This acquisition is expected to significantly bolster Amazon's capabilities in the satellite com...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon to Buy Satellite Operator Globalstar for $90 a Share

    Amazon.com Inc. has agreed to acquire satellite operator Globalstar Inc. for $90 per share, a strategic move aimed at enhancing its satellite operations. This acquisition is expected to significantly bolster Amazon's capabilities in the satellite com...

    Techmeme

    Sources: Amazon is in advanced talks to acquire satellite operator Globalstar in a deal that could be announced as soon as Tuesday; GSAT jumps 15%+ pre-market (Bloomberg)

    Amazon.com Inc. is reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire satellite operator Globalstar Inc., with an announcement expected as soon as Tuesday. This potential acquisition has already led to a significant pre-market surge of over 15% in Global...

    Investing.com

    Amazon nears deal for Globalstar to rival SpaceX’s Starlink- Bloomberg

    Amazon is reportedly nearing a deal to acquire Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications company, for approximately $9 billion. This acquisition aims to enhance Amazon's capabilities in the satellite internet sector, positioning it as a direct compe...

    Investing.com

    Amazon nears deal to buy Globalstar, Bloomberg News reports

    Amazon is reportedly nearing a deal to acquire Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications company, for approximately $9 billion, as reported by Bloomberg News. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to enhance Amazon's capabilities in the satel...

    Bloomberg Technology

    Amazon Nears Deal for Globalstar in Push to Rival Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon.com Inc. is reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire satellite operator Globalstar Inc., a move aimed at enhancing its satellite operations to compete with Musk's Starlink. This acquisition could significantly bolster Amazon's capabiliti...

    Bloomberg

    Amazon Nears Deal for Globalstar in Push to Rival Musk’s Starlink

    Amazon.com Inc. is reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire satellite operator Globalstar Inc., a move aimed at enhancing its satellite operations to compete with Musk's Starlink. This acquisition could significantly bolster Amazon's capabiliti...