Amazon Leo files with FCC to deploy 5,105 direct-to-device satellites

Amazon Leo has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission to launch and operate a constellation of up to 5,105 low Earth orbit satellites designed to deliver voice, data, messaging, and emergency services directly to mobile devices, according to a company statement.

The proposed Direct-to-Device system would be distributed across five orbital shells at altitudes ranging from 510 to 580 kilometers. Satellite deployment is targeted to begin in 2028. The network would operate alongside Amazon Leo's existing broadband satellite systems and Globalstar's satellite constellations.

The filing follows a definitive merger agreement with Globalstar announced in April, through which Amazon would acquire Globalstar's satellite operations, infrastructure, and spectrum licenses with global authorizations.

The satellites would use L-band and S-band spectrum for device links, with Ka-band and V-band connections to ground stations. Unlike relay-only satellites, the Leo D2D satellites would process signals in orbit and use optical inter-satellite laser links for traffic routing. The system would also employ digital beamforming, beam-hopping, and adaptive modulation to manage spectrum efficiency.

Amazon Leo said it has existing partnerships with telecom operators including Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel, and Australia's National Broadband Network. The company also announced a prior agreement with Apple to power satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models, including Emergency SOS and messaging features.

Amazon Leo currently has more than 390 first-generation broadband satellites in orbit and has said it plans to begin rolling out fixed service across initial latitude bands later this year.

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