Amazon's Leo subsidiary has applied to the Federal Communications Commission to launch up to 5,105 satellites for a direct-to-mobile service. The move positions the company against SpaceX in the satellite communications market. Plans call for deployment to begin in 2028.
Amazon Leo filed the application to provide voice, messaging, data and emergency services to mobile devices beyond traditional cell tower range. The subsidiary has already deployed more than 390 satellites as part of its first-generation broadband network.
The company plans to begin rolling out fixed service later this year. It has secured partnerships with Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel and Australia's National Broadband Network.
SpaceX filed its own FCC application earlier this year seeking approval for a constellation of a million satellites. Amazon previously asked the FCC to deny the SpaceX request, describing it as a lofty ambition rather than a real plan. FCC chair Brendan Carr responded that Amazon should focus on its own satellite efforts.