Apple, Amazon Leo, And Globalstar — April 14, 2026

Apple has a deep, multibillion-dollar partnership with Globalstar, initiated in 2022 to power the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on iPhones. Through significant investments and prepayments exceeding $1.5 billion, Apple secured 85% of Globalstar's network capacity, utilizing it for satellite messaging and emergency services.

Key Details of the Partnership: 

• Infrastructure Investment: Apple's funding allows Globalstar to expand its ground infrastructure and upgrade its satellite constellation. 
• Capacity Control: Under the agreement, 85% of Globalstar’s network capacity is reserved for Apple services. 
• Financial Support: Apple has provided over $1.5 billion in payments, including funding for new satellites and supporting Globalstar’s operational costs. 
• Service Scope: The partnership enables iPhone 14 and newer models to connect directly to satellites to send emergency texts and location data in areas without cellular coverage. 
• Recent Developments: In November 2024, Globalstar announced a $1.7 billion investment from Apple to launch a new, enhanced constellation. 
• Ownership Stake: Apple holds a 20% stake in Globalstar, strengthening the long-term partnership.  

Amazon-Globalstar Merger (April 2026): As of April 2026, Amazon is set to acquire Globalstar for $11.6 billion. Despite this merger, reports indicate the Apple-Globalstar agreement remains intact, and Apple will continue to use the network for its satellite services. 

Other Collaborations: While Globalstar is the primary partner, Apple has also explored, or currently works with, other providers for satellite technology to expand beyond emergency-only services, though Globalstar remains central to their current strategy. 

Amazon Leo:

Amazon Leo is Amazon’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite broadband network, formerly known as Project Kuiper, designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet to households, businesses, and governments worldwide. Utilizing over 3,000 satellites, it aims to connect underserved areas, with service options planned for in-flight Wi-Fi and direct-to-device connectivity.