Amazon is trying to launch an international satellite in 2028

Amazon filed an application with the FCC on Saturday that introduce a new constellation of Leo which will provide satellite services for “voice, communications, data, and emergency services.” If approved, Amazon will begin deploying a new fleet of 5,105 satellites in 2028. It says it plans to partner with mobile phone operators to provide direct satellite service, similar to Starlink’s partnership with T-Mobile.

Earlier this year, Amazon announced that it is access to Globalstar’s satellite network and participate in providing direct-to-device satellite services for Apple devices. Amazon said its new Star cluster “will use the Globalstar feature,” adding that it plans to “collaborate with Apple on future projects using an expanded network.” Advanced TV shows that the FCC’s application also includes a request to use Iridium’s satellite features outside the US, such as Rocket Lab’s. in the production of Iridium and additional purposes.

The new star service is specific to the device and will “complement” the broadband services Amazon is also planning to offer through its Leo platform. In addition to consumer satellite services, it can also be used for things like disaster response and emergency messaging.

Amazon says the new direct-to-device satellites will “correct signals in transit before sending them out for optimal performance.” The new constellation will be nearly twice the size of Amazon’s original Leo constellation, which is planned to include 3,200 satellites. As of July 2, Amazon says “Over 375” of these satellites have been released so far.