Key HighlightsAmazon has submitted an FCC application seeking authorization to deploy as many as 5,105 satellites for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.The satellite constellation will utilize Globalstar’s spectrum and infrastructure, stemming from Amazon’s approximately $11.6 billion acquisition announced earlier this year.Direct-to-device technology enables smartphones and other devices to connect via satellite without relying on conventional cellular towers.The Globalstar acquisition is anticipated to finalize in 2027, with the D2D service rollout slated to commence in 2028.The initiative includes partnerships with Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel, and Australia’s National Broadband Network.The Seattle-based technology giant has submitted a request to the Federal Communications Commission seeking authorization to deploy a constellation of up to 5,105 satellites designed to enable direct-to-device connectivity.Amazon.com, Inc., AMZNAccording to the application filed over the weekend, the proposed Amazon Leo D2D system would provide voice communications, data transmission, messaging capabilities, and emergency services directly to smartphones and mobile devices without requiring traditional cellular infrastructure.The satellite network will utilize Globalstar’s established infrastructure significantly. In April, Amazon unveiled its intention to purchase the satellite communications provider in a transaction worth approximately $11.6 billion.The company anticipates completing the Globalstar acquisition by 2027. Initial deployment of the direct-to-device network is scheduled to launch in 2028.The D2D constellation will operate in conjunction with Amazon Leo’s current first- and second-generation broadband satellite services, along with Globalstar’s HIBLEO and C-3 satellite systems.The company’s main focus centers on consumers identified in the regulatory filing as having limited or no access to reliable wireless coverage from traditional providers.Additional applications mentioned in the filing encompass emergency response scenarios such as search and rescue missions, plus connectivity solutions for isolated work locations, vehicle fleets, and logistics operations.To facilitate the service launch, Amazon has established partnerships with major telecommunications providers. Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel, and Australia’s National Broadband Network have all been identified as collaborators for the D2D initiative.Direct Challenge to StarlinkThis strategic initiative positions Amazon in direct rivalry with SpaceX’s Starlink Mobile offering, which already provides direct-to-cellular connectivity via a collaboration with T-Mobile across the United States.Starlink maintains an active constellation exceeding 10,000 satellites, establishing it as the leading provider of low Earth orbit internet services.In contrast, Amazon has deployed more than 390 satellites to date — a quantity the company recently indicated would be sufficient to commence “initial service” within the current year.Kuiper Development and FCC MilestonesThe FCC provided Amazon with regulatory relief last month by approving a waiver concerning the mandate to have 1,600 first-generation satellites operational by July 30.However, Amazon remains obligated to complete deployment of its full 3,232-satellite constellation by the July 2029 deadline.Since April of last year, the company has been systematically expanding its Leo internet infrastructure, establishing it as a strategic competitor to Starlink over the long term.Regarding the D2D initiative specifically, Amazon has obtained access to Globalstar’s wireless spectrum licenses as part of the pending acquisition agreement. This spectrum allocation represents a critical element enabling the D2D system’s operational capability.AMZN stock showed slight gains during Monday’s morning trading session, poised to snap a four-session decline.The post Amazon (AMZN) Stock Rises as Company Seeks FCC Approval for 5,105-Satellite Network appeared first on Blockonomi.