FCC clears Amazon Leo's $11.5 billion Globalstar deal

The Federal Communications Commission cleared Amazon Leo’s $11.5 billion acquisition of Globalstar. Amazon said the move would add satellite assets to its Leo network and enable direct‑to‑device connectivity. The FCC said the deal is likely to benefit the public by improving coverage in underserved areas, and that no material public‑interest harms were expected. Amazon’s network already has nearly 400 satellites in orbit and aims for more than 3,000 in the future.

Globalstar, known for providing Apple’s emergency satellite connectivity for compatible iPhones and Watches, will bring its existing satellite operations, infrastructure and licences to Amazon Leo. In a release, the FCC said the complementary assets would strengthen Amazon Leo’s entry into the direct‑to‑device segment and create a stronger satellite operator able to offer fixed and mobile services to residential, business and government customers.

In a statement, FCC Chair Brendan Carr called the approval a significant step toward supercharging next‑generation connectivity. The FCC also said the acquisition is likely to foster growth in industrial and enterprise data services and promote more intensive use of the mobile‑satellite service spectrum.