Summary:
Amazon is in talks to acquire Globalstar to expand into the low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet market and compete with SpaceX’s Starlink.
The deal is not finalized, and negotiations remain complex; Globalstar’s stock surged over 13% in after-hours trading following the news.
Apple holds a 20% stake in Globalstar and has rights to 85% of its network capacity for iPhone satellite messaging, creating a major structural hurdle for any acquisition.
Amazon’s satellite project (“Leo”) is significantly behind Starlink, with ~180 satellites in orbit vs. over 10,000 for Starlink, and has requested a 2-year FCC extension due to launch delays.
Acquiring Globalstar would provide Amazon with existing satellite infrastructure, spectrum, and operational capability, helping narrow the competitive gap.
Globalstar generated $273M revenue (+9% YoY) and $7.4M operating income in 2025, and has attracted interest from multiple parties, including prior discussions with SpaceX, highlighting its strategic value in satellite connectivity and aviation internet services.