Apple chooses Amazon satellites for iPhone, years after rejecting Starlink offer
Summary
Ars Technica reports that Amazon is expanding its Leo satellite network by acquiring Globalstar for $11.6B and has also signed a deal with Apple to provide satellite connectivity for iPhones and Apple Watches, aiming to become the primary satellite service provider for these devices. The moves broaden direct-to-device connectivity and spotlight competition from Starlink and AST SpaceMobile, with regulatory approval from the FCC anticipated and a multi-year path to broader service by 2028. The article also notes Apple’s past rejection of Starlink and frames the merger as a significant shift in mobile connectivity off the grid.