Amazon.com Inc. filed plans with the Federal Communications Commission for a satellite constellation of more than 5,100 low Earth orbit satellites designed to deliver voice, data, messaging, and emergency services directly to compatible smartphones. The proposed Amazon Leo Direct-to-Device system would deploy up to 5,105 satellites beginning in 2028, extending connectivity beyond traditional cell tower reach. The filing follows Amazon's agreement to acquire Globalstar's satellite operations and mobile satellite spectrum assets earlier this year, positioning the company in the competitive satellite-to-phone connectivity market alongside SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile.
Amazon Files FCC Application for 5,105-Satellite Leo Direct-to-Device Constellation
Amazon said the Leo Direct-to-Device system will complement its existing broadband satellite network by connecting compatible smartphones directly from space. The service is designed to support voice calls, messaging, data and emergency communications in areas beyond the reach of traditional cellular networks. The company said the network could also support disaster response, fleet management, remote worksites, IoT devices and emergency messaging when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable. Amazon said the service is designed to work with compatible smartphones, including newer devices equipped with satellite-capable chipsets, rather than requiring dedicated satellite phones.
Constellation Operates Across Five Orbital Shells With In-Orbit Data Processing
According to the FCC filing, the constellation will operate across five orbital shells to provide coverage from densely populated regions to near-polar areas. The company said that unlike traditional "bent-pipe" satellites that simply relay signals, Leo's satellites will process data in orbit and communicate with one another using laser links to improve routing and network performance. Amazon said it also plans to use technologies such as digital beamforming, adaptive modulation and dual-polarization reception to improve spectrum efficiency while minimizing interference with other satellite operators.
Amazon Enters Satellite-to-Phone Market With SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile
Amazon's filing comes as companies race to eliminate mobile dead zones by connecting everyday smartphones directly to satellites. In February 2025, Space Exploration Technologies Corp. commercially launched its Starlink Direct to Cell service in the U.S. and New Zealand, allowing standard 4G LTE smartphones on partner networks to send messages via satellites, with plans to expand into voice, data and IoT services. Another competitor, AST SpaceMobile Inc., is developing a space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect directly with standard, unmodified smartphones, allowing users to make calls, send texts, browse the web, and use apps over 4G and 5G networks without requiring specialized hardware. Like its rivals, Amazon plans to partner with mobile network operators to extend existing terrestrial coverage rather than replace it, targeting regions where building traditional cellular infrastructure is impractical or uneconomical.
AMZN Stock Performance and Retail Sentiment
Amazon shares were up nearly 2% in Monday's opening trade. Retail sentiment on Stocktwits around Amazon trended in the 'bullish' territory at the time of writing. AMZN stock is up 1% year-to-date, while SPCX stock is down 25%. ASTS stock has declined 21% during this period. The Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) is up 22% over the past 12 months, while the Tema Space Innovators ETF (NASA) is down 8%. The Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (AIQ) is up 30% during this period, while the iShares U.S. Technology ETF (IYW) is up 32%.
FAQ
What did Amazon file with the FCC regarding satellite connectivity?
Amazon filed plans with the Federal Communications Commission for a constellation of more than 5,100 low Earth orbit satellites designed to deliver voice, data, messaging, and emergency services directly to compatible smartphones. The proposed Amazon Leo Direct-to-Device system would deploy up to 5,105 satellites beginning in 2028.
How does Amazon's Leo Direct-to-Device system differ from traditional satellites?
According to the FCC filing, Leo's satellites will process data in orbit and communicate with one another using laser links to improve routing and network performance, unlike traditional "bent-pipe" satellites that simply relay signals. The constellation will operate across five orbital shells to provide coverage from densely populated regions to near-polar areas.
Who are Amazon's competitors in the satellite-to-phone connectivity market?
Amazon's filing comes as companies race to eliminate mobile dead zones by connecting smartphones directly to satellites. In February 2025, Space Exploration Technologies Corp. commercially launched its Starlink Direct to Cell service in the U.S. and New Zealand. Another competitor, AST SpaceMobile Inc., is developing a space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect directly with standard, unmodified smartphones.
