Amazon ($AMZN) has asked the Federal Communications Commission for approval to deploy the Amazon Leo Direct-to-Device (D2D) System, a constellation of up to 5,105 low-Earth orbit satellites designed to deliver messaging, voice, data and emergency services directly to compatible smartphones. The proposed network would begin deployment in 2028, expanding Amazon's satellite strategy following its planned acquisition of Globalstar and increasing competition with SpaceX's Starlink and other satellite providers.
- The D2D constellation would provide global satellite connectivity to smartphones in areas without terrestrial cellular coverage.
- Amazon plans to integrate the service with its existing Project Leo broadband network and assets acquired through its planned $11.6 billion Globalstar transaction.
- The company already has partnerships with Vodafone, DirecTV and Apple, and said it will continue pursuing agreements with mobile network operators worldwide.
- Amazon currently has more than 390 Project Leo satellites in orbit and expects to begin fixed broadband service later this year.
- Recent federal lobbying disclosures show Amazon has actively engaged on satellite communications, broadband access, spectrum policy, telecommunications, space policy and related legislation as it expands its space-based communications business.
Relevant Companies
- Amazon ($AMZN) – The FCC filing expands the company's satellite strategy into direct-to-device mobile connectivity.
- AST SpaceMobile ($ASTS) – Competes in the direct-to-device satellite communications market through carrier partnerships.
- AT&T ($T) – Partners with AST SpaceMobile to provide satellite-based mobile coverage and competes in the evolving D2D ecosystem.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
