Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) has submitted a request to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission for its satellite network, Project Leo, to deploy up to 5,105 low-earth orbit satellites. This initiative aims to provide voice, data, and emergency communication services directly to mobile devices.
The network will leverage spectrum resources acquired through Amazon.com's purchase of Globalstar. Deployment is expected to begin in 2028. This direct-to-device communication network will complement Amazon.com's existing satellite broadband business, allowing standard smartphones to access satellite services in areas without base station coverage, without requiring any modifications.
The system is designed to support personal communications, Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, and emergency response scenarios. To secure the necessary spectrum, Amazon.com announced in April its acquisition of Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion, a deal expected to close in 2027. Currently, Globalstar provides emergency satellite services for Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) devices, and this acquisition will also grant Amazon.com access to that partnership.
Amazon.com's network will compete with SpaceX's Starlink direct-to-phone service and AST SpaceMobile. SpaceX has already launched a similar service in collaboration with T-Mobile, and the three major U.S. carriers have formed a joint venture to promote the market's growth.
From a technical standpoint, Amazon.com has proposed that its satellites will feature on-board signal processing and laser inter-satellite links for efficient routing. The satellites will be distributed across five orbital layers at altitudes between 510 and 580 kilometers to achieve global coverage.
Comments