It seems space is no longer big enough for everyone, or at least that is what Amazon thinks. In a move that could shift the balance of power in the world of satellite communications, Amazon has entered into serious negotiations to acquire Globalstar in a deal valued at approximately $9 billion. However, there is a small (or rather, large) problem: Apple is not just a “customer” of Globalstar, but the strategic partner that controls the network’s core, making these negotiations feel like a complex game of chess between tech giants.
Amazon and “Kuiper” Ambitions to Compete with Elon Musk
Amazon does not want to remain in the shadow of Elon Musk’s Starlink forever. Through its own project, “Project Kuiper,” it seeks to build a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit to provide high-speed internet everywhere. So far, Amazon has launched more than 180 satellites, a number that seems very modest compared to the 10,000 active satellites Starlink has, so acquiring an established company like Globalstar would give it a massive technical boost.
Amazon has already begun planning to leverage these space capabilities, having signed major commercial agreements, including providing free high-speed Wi-Fi on Delta Air Lines flights starting in 2028. Acquiring Globalstar will strengthen this trend and position Amazon as a major player that cannot be underestimated in the tech sky.
Will Apple Allow This Deal?
This is where things get interesting; Apple is not just a spectator, but a partner deeply embedded in the roots of Globalstar. Apple currently owns a 20% stake in the company following a massive $1.5 billion investment in 2024. Before that, Apple injected $450 million through its “Advanced Manufacturing Fund” to build the infrastructure for the satellite features that impressed us in the iPhone 14. The current deal between them obligates Globalstar to allocate 85% of its entire network capacity exclusively to Apple.
This exclusive commitment supports vital features like Emergency SOS via satellite and satellite messaging. So, how can Amazon acquire a company while its fierce neighbor, Apple, holds the keys to the main room? The negotiations are extremely complex because any new owner of Globalstar will find themselves forced to deal with Apple’s strict terms and non-negotiable commitments.
The Future of Communications in iPhone 18 and Beyond
For Apple, Globalstar is the backbone of its ambitious long-term plans. It is no longer just about emergency messages; reports indicate that Apple is working on developing satellite-supported maps and image messaging to ensure the user stays connected even in the most remote parts of the desert. Expectations even go further with the iPhone 18 Pro, which may support 5G satellite internet through the C2 modem that Apple is developing in-house.
Investing in space infrastructure is part of Apple’s strategy to reduce reliance on traditional telecommunications companies and provide an integrated user experience. Therefore, Amazon’s entry into the picture could threaten this independence, or at least force Apple into grueling negotiations to protect the interests of future iPhone users.
A Heated Market and Negotiations on a Knife’s Edge
As soon as news of the acquisition spread, Globalstar shares jumped, bringing its market value to about $9 billion, reflecting investor enthusiasm for this tech drama. The company generated $273 million in revenue in 2025, a 9% increase from the previous year, figures that make it an attractive prey for Amazon, which has a nearly endless budget. Nevertheless, there is no final agreement yet, and talks could collapse at any moment, especially if a formula that satisfies Apple is not reached.
The biggest challenge lies in how to reconcile Amazon’s ambitions to build its own network with Globalstar’s strict commitments to Apple’s ecosystem. So far, all parties remain tight-lipped, with Apple and Amazon refusing to comment on these reports, while Globalstar merely stated that it does not comment on market rumors. We are facing a true clash of giants, and the ultimate victim or beneficiary will be the end user.
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