Amazon is advancing its satellite connectivity ambitions with plans to deliver direct-to-device internet service for iPhones and high-speed inflight connectivity for commercial aircraft, marking a significant expansion of its Amazon Leo low Earth orbit network. The initiative, first disclosed in Spanish-language tech coverage, centers on leveraging Amazon’s recently announced acquisition of Globalstar and a new partnership with Apple to enable satellite-based messaging and data services in areas beyond terrestrial cellular reach.
The core of the plan involves integrating Globalstar’s existing satellite constellation and spectrum assets into Amazon Leo, which will power Direct-to-Device (D2D) capabilities for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models. This technology allows satellites to communicate directly with consumer devices without requiring ground-based terminals or specialized hardware, enabling emergency texting, location sharing and two-way messaging in remote or disaster-affected regions.
According to verified reports, Amazon has entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire Globalstar for an estimated $11.6 billion, a transaction that will provide the foundational infrastructure for its D2D ambitions. The deal includes options for Globalstar shareholders to receive either $90 in cash per share or 0.3210 shares of Amazon common stock, with the final value contingent on Amazon’s stock price at closing.
Simultaneously, Amazon has formalized an agreement with Apple to provide satellite connectivity for current and future iPhone and Apple Watch features, building on Apple’s existing Emergency SOS via satellite service launched with the iPhone 14 series. Under this arrangement, Amazon Leo will become the primary satellite service provider for Apple’s satellite-enabled devices, supporting functions such as emergency messaging, roadside assistance requests, and location sharing.
The inflight connectivity component of Amazon’s strategy involves deploying a flat-panel antenna system on commercial aircraft capable of delivering up to 1 Gbps download and 400 Mbps upload speeds. Delta Air Lines has confirmed it will adopt this technology, which Amazon positions as a significant upgrade over legacy air-to-ground and Ku-band satellite systems currently used in aviation.
Amazon Leo’s progressive rollout is expected to begin with partial operations before full global coverage is achieved, with company timelines indicating that continuous D2D service for consumer devices may become available starting in 2028, once sufficient satellites are deployed to ensure uninterrupted coverage.
These developments position Amazon as a growing competitor in the satellite communications sector, particularly against established players like SpaceX’s Starlink, by combining vertical integration of satellite operations, spectrum access, and device-level partnerships to serve both consumer and enterprise connectivity needs.
How Amazon Leo’s Direct-to-Device Technology Works
Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite connectivity represents a shift from traditional satellite phone models that require bulky external antennas. Instead, Amazon Leo’s D2D system uses modified low Earth orbit satellites equipped to transmit and receive signals directly to standard smartphones via existing cellular frequency bands. This approach enables seamless handoff between terrestrial networks and satellite links when users move out of cellular coverage.
The technology relies on Globalstar’s licensed spectrum in the 1.6 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, which Amazon will inherit through the acquisition. These frequencies are particularly suited for penetrating foliage and light weather conditions, making them viable for reliable messaging even in challenging environments.
For users, the experience is designed to be automatic: when a supported iPhone detects no cellular signal, it will attempt to connect to the nearest Amazon Leo satellite to send emergency texts or share location with emergency services. Non-emergency messaging and limited data functions may also be available depending on network capacity and service tier.
Inflight Connectivity and Aviation Partnerships
In the aviation sector, Amazon’s solution targets a longstanding gap in global air traffic connectivity, particularly over oceans and remote regions where ground-based radar and radio systems are ineffective. The flat-panel antenna, designed for minimal aerodynamic drag, can be installed on the fuselage of commercial jets and maintains a steady link with Leo satellites as the aircraft moves.
Delta Air Lines’ confirmation as an early adopter suggests interest from major carriers seeking to improve passenger experience and operational communications. The promised speeds of up to 1 Gbps download could support high-bandwidth activities like video streaming and real-time cockpit data transmission, though actual performance will depend on network congestion and satellite availability.
Amazon has not disclosed the full list of airlines in negotiations, but industry analysts note that the success of such systems hinges on regulatory approvals from aviation authorities like the FAA and EASA, as well as coordination with air traffic control providers to avoid interference with navigation systems.
Timeline and Deployment Challenges
Even as Amazon has outlined a vision for progressive deployment, significant hurdles remain before full service launch. The integration of Globalstar’s 24-satellite constellation into the broader Amazon Leo network requires orbital maneuvers, ground station upgrades, and software interoperability testing—processes that typically span 18 to 24 months even under optimal conditions.
Regulatory scrutiny is another critical factor. The merger with Globalstar is subject to review by antitrust authorities in the United States and potentially the European Union, given Amazon’s growing influence across cloud computing, logistics, and now space-based communications. Any conditions imposed could affect the timeline or structure of the deal.
Amazon must secure licensing for D2D operations in each country where it intends to offer service, a process that involves coordination with national telecommunications regulators and adherence to international ITU regulations governing satellite operations.
Implications for Consumers and Industry
If successfully implemented, Amazon’s satellite initiatives could reduce dependency on traditional carriers for emergency connectivity in rural areas, national parks, and during natural disasters. For Apple users, it may mean more reliable access to Emergency SOS and Find My features without relying on carrier partnerships.
In aviation, widespread adoption could lead to standardized inflight internet pricing and performance, potentially ending the patchwork of varying service quality and cost that passengers currently experience. However, experts caution that affordability and accessibility will determine real-world impact, particularly if premium pricing limits apply to business cabins or paid add-ons.
The broader implication is a shift toward hybrid networks where satellites complement rather than replace terrestrial infrastructure, creating resilient connectivity layers for both consumer devices and critical infrastructure.
As of the latest verified updates, Amazon has not announced a specific closing date for the Globalstar merger or provided a detailed public roadmap for Amazon Leo’s D2D service rollout. Interested users and industry stakeholders are advised to monitor official filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and press releases from Amazon’s Devices & Services division for confirmed developments.
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