Apple has selected Amazon's satellite network as the primary provider for iPhone and Apple Watch connectivity, replacing its previous partnership with Globalstar. Amazon is simultaneously acquiring Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion to strengthen its position in the direct-to-device satellite market. This move positions Amazon as a major competitor to SpaceX's Starlink in the satellite connectivity space.
Background
Satellite-based direct-to-device connectivity has emerged as a competitive market, with companies like SpaceX's Starlink and Amazon's Project Kuiper vying to provide cellular-like service directly to smartphones without ground infrastructure.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Apr 15, 2026 at 03:50 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10