Thought Leadership
Amazon is applying to the FCC for the launch of 5,105 satellites starting in 2028. The network is meant to supply smartphones worldwide directly with voice services and data.
The corporation has applied to the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approval to build a new satellite constellation. The planned network is to consist of 5,105 satellites and provide worldwide direct connections to conventional mobile phones starting in 2028. The offering includes voice services, messaging, data transmission, and emergency services for regions outside the range of terrestrial cell towers. The new infrastructure is meant to “complement” the broadband services of Amazon‘s existing Leo platform. Besides use by end consumers, the network is also intended for disaster relief and emergency communications.
Use of frequencies and signal processing in space
The network is to use frequency spectrum from Globalstar and support future satellite services from Apple. The FCC application also includes a request to use frequency bands from the Iridium satellite network outside the US, while the company Rocket Lab is currently preparing to acquire Iridium. For the technical implementation, Amazon is planning direct data processing in space.
Expansion of orbital infrastructure compared to Starlink
The requested constellation comprises almost twice as many satellites as Amazon’s original broadband project Leo, which is designed for around 3,200 satellites. According to the company, more than 375 satellites of this first generation had been launched into space by early July 2026. With the new project, Amazon is positioning itself in direct competition with existing direct-to-cell partnerships such as the cooperation between SpaceX Starlink and T-Mobile.
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