FCC approves Amazon Leo’s $11.5bn Globalstar acquisition
The US Federal Communications Commission has approved Amazon Leo’s $11.5 billion acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar. Amazon says the deal will expand its satellite network and enable direct-to-device services, while the FCC expects it to improve coverage in underserved areas.
Globalstar provides emergency satellite connectivity for compatible Apple iPhones and Watches, and Apple held a 20 per cent stake in the company before the acquisition. Amazon Leo will continue powering satellite services for supported Apple devices. Leo has 400 satellites in orbit and aims to deploy more than 3,000, compared with SpaceX’s 11,000.
In short
- FCC approves Amazon Leo’s $11.5 billion Globalstar deal.
- The acquisition supports direct-to-device satellite services.
- Globalstar’s Apple emergency connectivity will continue.
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Originally published by Engadget as “FCC clears Amazon Leo to acquire mobile-satellite operator Globalstar”.