July 28, 2026, 12:38 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Amazon aims to offer mobile and internet services via satellites with Project Leo. The service is intended to fill coverage gaps and reach regions without continuous mobile coverage. The company has applied to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for approval of up to 5,105 satellites. The network is scheduled to be operational by 2028. The project complements Amazon’s plans to build a global satellite network.
Amazon Leo is set to provide voice and data services for smartphones as well as internet access. It plans to combine existing mobile infrastructure with satellite connectivity. The latter is primarily intended for areas where conventional networks reach their limits. It was already announced in the spring that Amazon is acquiring satellite operator Globalstar. Its infrastructure and frequency spectrums will be used for the project.
Amazon is not alone in its plans. At the Mobile World Congress in March 2026, several mobile providers presented similar concepts. Satellites in low Earth orbit are expected to serve regions that currently lack continuous mobile coverage.
Satellites to Fill Coverage Gaps
Amazon is relying on collaboration with existing mobile providers for Leo. Customers will continue to primarily use traditional cell towers for calls and internet browsing. Satellite connectivity will step in where terrestrial coverage is unavailable.
This could also connect remote regions where expanding traditional mobile infrastructure is economically unfeasible or technically challenging. Amazon also sees potential in areas where the installation of radio technology is limited.
The system is also intended to serve as a backup solution when cell base stations fail due to storms or during maintenance. However, reception quality inside buildings may be limited.
Amazon has already made agreements with several telecom companies. Among the named partners is Vodafone. The network operator, along with AST Space Mobile, has also announced the Satellite Connect Europe service.
Also of interest: Amazon becomes an internet provider in Germany
Amazon Announces First Hardware for Leo
Amazon has now revealed initial technical details for Amazon Leo. The network is currently under construction, with operations slated for 2028. A German-language information page is already available. Additionally, the Federal Network Agency has allocated frequencies for the project.
Amazon describes three antenna variants with different performance levels. Nano is expected to achieve download rates of up to 100 Mbps, and Pro up to 400 Mbps. Both solutions are intended for mobile and stationary applications.
The most powerful variant, Ultra, is intended for businesses and government agencies. It is expected to achieve download rates of up to 1 Gbps and upload speeds of up to 400 Mbps. Amazon cites potential applications such as connecting large numbers of IoT sensors and numerous HD cameras.