Amazon is reported to be in "talks" to acquire Globalstar, the company that connects Apple's iPhone and Apple Watch satellite features. Apple's 20% stake in the company is a significant factor in the negotiations.

Amazon May Acquire the Company Supporting the Emergency SOS Feature

Financial Times reports that Amazon is interested in acquiring Globalstar, and the status of Apple's ownership stake complicates matters.

One complexity is Apple's 20% stake in Globalstar; this necessitates negotiations between Amazon and Apple, sources say.

Apple acquired a 20% stake in Globalstar in November 2024, which was valued at approximately $400 million at that time.

Apple also committed to $1.1 billion in "upfront infrastructure payments" to develop Globalstar's satellite network as part of the deal.

Since Apple acquired its stake, Globalstar's value has skyrocketed, and this situation is estimated to yield Apple approximately $1.1 billion in earnings, which is the same amount it prepaid for the service in 2024.

Apple currently supports the Emergency SOS service via satellite on the iPhone 14 or newer models and the Apple Watch Ultra 3.

This service allows iPhone and Apple Watch users to access emergency services when there is no cellular connection.

Meanwhile, Amazon's interest is shaping around the company's plans to compete with SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service.

Amazon is developing its satellite internet service previously known as Project Kuiper, now called Amazon Leo.

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