Amazon is acquiring Globalstar and signing an agreement with Apple to power satellite features on iPhone and Apple Watch

Amazon announced it will acquire Globalstar, a low Earth orbit satellite operator, in a deal where Globalstar shareholders will receive $90 per share in cash or Amazon stock, with the transaction expected to close in 2027 pending regulatory approval. The acquisition gives Amazon Leo access to Globalstar's spectrum licenses and satellite infrastructure to launch a direct-to-device service beginning in 2028, enabling voice, text, and data connectivity for mobile phones beyond terrestrial cellular coverage. Separately, Amazon and Apple signed an agreement for Amazon Leo to continue powering satellite features on iPhone 14 and later and Apple Watch Ultra 3, including Emergency SOS, Messages, Find My, and Roadside Assistance via satellite, taking over from Globalstar's current role as Apple's satellite connectivity provider.