Amazon announced its acquisition of Globalstar, a company that provides satellite communications technologies for Apple devices such as the iPhone and Apple Watch.
This feature relies on satellites in low Earth orbit, allowing devices to connect when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi network coverage, while Apple uses a large portion of the current Globalstar network capacity.
Through this deal, Amazon aims to expand direct connection services to devices within its future network of low-orbit satellites. Globalstar’s satellites will be integrated into the Amazon Leo system, allowing the company to provide voice, text, and data services directly to devices outside the scope of traditional terrestrial networks.
Amazon also explained that it will provide these services to telecommunications network operators to help them expand coverage for their customers in remote areas, for a fee. This means that satellite connectivity can be provided without completely relying on terrestrial infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Amazon has signed an agreement with Apple that ensures existing satellite communications services will continue without any interruption for iPhone and Apple Watch users. These services may even improve in the future, taking advantage of the combined networks of Globalstar and Amazon Leo.
