Amazon is in talks to acquire Globalstar to bolster its low Earth orbit satellite business; Apple's 20% stake in Globalstar is a complicating factor
Ecommerce giant is trying to catch up with SpaceX's low Earth orbit internet service
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Amazon Eyes Globalstar Acquisition to Challenge SpaceX
Amazon is reportedly in talks to buy satellite firm Globalstar, but Apple's 20% stake complicates the deal.
Amazon wants to buy Globalstar. The goal: supercharge its low Earth orbit satellite ambitions and close the gap with SpaceX's Starlink internet service.
There's a catch. Apple owns a 20% stake in Globalstar, creating a messy complication for any acquisition. Having one of your biggest rivals as a minority shareholder in a company you're trying to swallow whole isn't exactly ideal dealmaking territory.
The move underscores how seriously Amazon is taking the LEO satellite race. SpaceX has built a commanding lead with Starlink, and Amazon's Project Kuiper has been playing catch-up. Acquiring Globalstar would hand Amazon existing satellite infrastructure and spectrum rights — potentially shaving years off the timeline.
No deal terms have been disclosed. Whether Apple plays ball or becomes a blocking force remains the key variable to watch.