Amazon Seeks FCC Nod to Beam Satellite Coverage to Mobile Phones

Amazon is currently building out a network, called Amazon Leo, to beam broadband internet coverage down to a receiver on Earth.

Amazon.com Inc. has requested permission from the US Federal Communications Commission to launch a direct-to-device network of 5,000 satellites to provide mobile services to cell phones from space, furthering the company’s competition with SpaceX.

If the regulator gives the green light, the new low-Earth orbit network would provide global coverage and connect to smartphones and other mobile devices to allow for messaging, data and emergency services in areas not covered by cell towers, according to a news release from the company. The move comes a few months after Amazon announced plans to acquire satellite company Globalstar Inc. for $11.6 billion, a deal that would give the e-commerce giant rights to spectrum capable of beaming data down to phones.

Amazon previously announced partnerships with traditional telecommunications companies, including Vodafone Group PLC and DirecTV to allow them to provide satellite-based services to their customers. Amazon said it plans to continue pursuing such arrangements.

SpaceX’s Starlink has a similar partnership with T-Mobile US Inc., and Texas-based AST SpaceMobile Inc., which is also building out a direct-to-device network, has deals with Verizon Communications Inc. and AT&T Inc.

Amazon is currently building out a separate network, called Amazon Leo, to beam broadband internet coverage down to a receiver on Earth, much like SpaceX does with its Starlink terminals. The company is expecting to begin service by the end of the year but has faced delays in launching its spacecraft.

Amazon Leo also has an agreement with Apple Inc. to provide satellite services for iPhones and Apple Watches.

Amazon is expecting to begin deploying its direct-to-device network in 2028.