Key Highlights
- Amazon has submitted an FCC application seeking authorization to deploy as many as 5,105 satellites for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.
- The system will leverage Globalstar’s satellite fleet and spectrum, stemming from Amazon’s approximately $11.6 billion acquisition announced earlier this year.
- Direct-to-device technology enables smartphones to communicate directly with satellites, eliminating the need for conventional cellular infrastructure.
- Amazon anticipates finalizing the Globalstar transaction in 2027, with D2D services launching the following year.
- The initiative includes partnerships with major providers like Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel, and Australia’s National Broadband Network.
Amazon has submitted a formal request to the Federal Communications Commission seeking permission to deploy up to 5,105 satellites designed to support a direct-to-device communications network.
According to the application filed over the weekend, the proposed Amazon Leo D2D platform would provide voice communications, data transmission, messaging capabilities, and emergency response services directly to mobile phones and other devices without relying on traditional cellular towers.
The initiative relies significantly on Globalstar’s current satellite operations. Amazon revealed its intention to purchase the satellite communications company back in April through a transaction worth approximately $11.6 billion.
The e-commerce giant anticipates completing the Globalstar purchase by 2027, with the D2D network expected to commence operations in 2028.
This D2D platform will operate in conjunction with Amazon Leo’s current first-generation and second-generation satellite broadband offerings, along with Globalstar’s HIBLEO and C-3 satellite systems.
According to the filing, Amazon’s primary focus centers on consumers characterized as having inadequate or no coverage from traditional wireless carriers.
The document further identifies potential applications including emergency response scenarios such as search-and-rescue missions, as well as providing connectivity for isolated work locations, vehicle fleets, and logistics operations.
Several telecommunications companies have committed to supporting the deployment. Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel, and the Australian National Broadband Network have been identified as collaborative partners for the D2D initiative.
Taking On Starlink
This strategic push positions Amazon in head-to-head competition with SpaceX’s Starlink Mobile platform, which currently provides direct-to-cellular service via its collaboration with T-Mobile across the United States.
Starlink maintains an operational fleet exceeding 10,000 satellites, establishing its position as the leading provider of low Earth orbit internet services.
Amazon’s current constellation includes over 390 satellites in operation ā a number the company recently indicated is sufficient to commence “initial service” within the current year.
Project Kuiper Development and FCC Milestones
The FCC provided Amazon with regulatory relief last month by granting an exemption from a mandate requiring deployment of 1,600 first-generation satellites by the July 30 deadline.
However, Amazon remains obligated to complete the launch of its complete 3,232-satellite constellation by July 2029.
The tech giant has been expanding its Leo internet infrastructure since April of last year, establishing itself as a significant competitor to Starlink over the long term.
Regarding the D2D expansion particularly, Amazon has obtained access to Globalstar’s wireless spectrum authorizations via the forthcoming acquisition. This spectrum allocation represents a critical element enabling the D2D network’s operational capabilities.
AMZN stock registered slight gains during Monday’s morning trading session, poised to snap a four-session decline.
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