Amazon Leo direct-to-device
A planned Amazon service that would connect ordinary phones straight to satellites for voice, text and data, starting from Globalstar, which Amazon agreed to buy in 2026. Amazon plans its own satellites from 2028 and will power Apple's satellite features.
Why it matters
Phones lose signal across large parts of the planet's land and oceans. Satellite-to-phone service fills those gaps, starting with emergency texts. Buying Globalstar gives Amazon licensed spectrum and Apple as an anchor customer.
How the technology works
Globalstar already provides satellite features on iPhone 14 and later and Apple Watch Ultra 3, including Emergency SOS. Amazon says it will keep supporting those devices on Globalstar's satellites and, beginning in 2028, deploy its own next-generation direct-to-device system.
The deal is expected to close in 2027.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction