Amazon’s Globalstar Deal: What It Means for iPhone Satellite Features
By RSINC editorial team | Updated
Amazon has agreed to acquire Globalstar, the satellite operator supporting Apple’s satellite features. An acquisition agreement is different from a completed transaction: Amazon’s announcement says closing is expected in 2027, subject to conditions. Readers should not assume that Amazon already owns Globalstar or that a new consumer service is available today.
Our satellite connectivity explainer covers the different uses of satellites. For home connections, compare Hughesnet, Viasat and Starlink; a phone’s satellite messaging feature serves a different purpose.
What Amazon announced
The April acquisition announcement describes plans to combine Globalstar’s satellite operations and spectrum assets with Amazon Leo. Amazon also announced an agreement with Apple to support current and future satellite features. These are company plans and commitments, rather than a reason to change your phone account immediately.
Amazon separately describes a proposed direct-to-device constellation, with deployment beginning in 2028. That deployment target is not a promise that every phone, country, carrier or application will work on launch day. Compatible devices, service coverage, commercial terms and actual availability still matter.
What it means for an iPhone owner now
Amazon’s announcement says Globalstar currently supports satellite services on iPhone 14 and later and Apple Watch Ultra 3. The supported functions include emergency assistance, messaging and location-related features, with the exact options depending on device, software, country and service conditions.
You do not need to buy a new Amazon subscription merely because a merger has been announced. Follow Apple’s instructions for your particular device, and check which satellite features are available where you are travelling. This article does not establish a new price or a lifetime free-service promise for those features.
Phone connectivity is different from satellite home internet
Direct-to-device service connects compatible mobile equipment without a home dish. A fixed satellite internet plan uses dedicated equipment and is intended for broader internet access. A phone messaging feature should not be treated as an unlimited home hotspot, a full video-streaming connection or a replacement for a household broadband plan.
If you need home internet now, check current address eligibility with Starlink, Viasat and Hughesnet, as well as wired and fixed-wireless providers. Compare installation needs, data policies and actual service terms.
What to watch for next
- A formal transaction-closing announcement, rather than another regulatory milestone.
- Device and country lists for any newly announced service.
- Actual consumer prices, plan restrictions and launch dates.
- Apple instructions explaining whether an existing feature changes.
Keep your phone software current and learn its satellite demonstration or setup process before a trip. A satellite connection may depend on a clear view of the sky and should never be assumed to work from every indoor location.
For help comparing internet at your address, call RSINC at 1-877-697-2926 or compare local providers.
Reviewed October 28, 2026. Availability, prices and terms can change.