Challenging Starlink, Amazon Applies for Permission to Launch 5,105 Satellites to Connect Phones

Amazon's building at night. The company has applied for permission from US regulators to launch up to 5,105 satellites to connect mobile phones directly from space. Photo: Pexels.

JAKARTA - Amazon has asked the United States regulator for permission to launch up to 5,105 satellites. The network is set up so that mobile phones and other devices can connect directly to the satellite when mobile towers are not available.

Anadolu Agency, quoted Wednesday, July 29, reported that the application was submitted to the US Federal Communications Commission or FCC. Amazon plans to combine its infrastructure with Globalstar's satellite and wireless frequency spectrum.

Amazon in April announced plans to acquire Globalstar in a deal worth around $11.6 billion. The deal is expected to be completed by 2027. Construction of the network directly to the device is scheduled to begin in 2028.

Direct-to-device technology allows phones and other devices to connect directly to satellites when regular cell towers are not available.

Amazon said the service is aimed at people who live, travel, or work in areas that are not yet covered or have little wireless network service.

The network can also support emergency operations as well as search and rescue. This service can also be used in remote work locations, vehicle fleets, and supply chains that are difficult to connect through land networks.

Separately, Amazon continues to expand its low-Earth orbit satellite internet network designed to compete with SpaceX's Starlink.

The tech company has put more than 390 satellites into orbit. Amazon said its initial broadband internet service is expected to be available by the end of this year.

The FCC requires Amazon to place a first-generation constellation consisting of 3,232 satellites by July 2029. The regulator had previously exempted the company from a temporary deadline requiring the launch of 1,600 satellites by July 30.

Direct network to Amazon-owned devices will also compete with Starlink Mobile. SpaceX's service provides direct connection to the mobile network in the United States through a partnership with T-Mobile.