JavaScript Required

Jumpseat Aerospace News requires JavaScript to function. Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings to continue.

Amazon Enters Direct-to-Device Satellite Market

July 28, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

Amazon files for 5,105 LEO satellites for direct-to-device service.
Constellation to run on Globalstar's 1.6/2.4 GHz spectrum.
Deployment to start in 2028 with 6-8 year satellite lifetimes.
System to reach smartphones with no add-on hardware needed.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.

Upgrade

Strategic Implications

Amazon's entry into the D2D market may indicate a significant shift in the satellite communications landscape. The company's move could suggest a growing demand for direct-to-device services, which may benefit other players in the market, such as SpaceX and Rocket Lab, and could lead to increased competition in the industry.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.

Upgrade

What Happened

Tech Giant Files For 5,105 LEO Satellites To Beam Data Directly To Smartphones

Amazon has filed a request with the FCC to launch up to 5,105 LEO satellites for its direct-to-device service, which would beam voice, text, and data directly to smartphones. The constellation, known as the Amazon Leo Direct-to-Device System, would run on spectrum from Globalstar, which Amazon is buying for $11B+. The system is expected to start deployment in 2028 and would reach smartphones with no add-on hardware needed. This development was first reported by Payload Space.

Source | Originally Published: July 28, 2026

Companies Mentioned