Amazon Developing Direct-to-Phone Satellite Tech for Leo Constellation
The e-commerce giant tells UK regulators it's working on smartphone connectivity, though first-generation satellites won't support the feature.
Amazon is developing direct-to-device technology that would let smartphones connect directly to its Leo satellite constellation without requiring dedicated receivers, according to a filing with UK telecommunications regulator Ofcom.
The move positions Amazon to compete with SpaceX's Starlink, which already operates direct-to-cell service with more than 6,500 satellites in orbit, as well as specialized D2D players like AST SpaceMobile and Lynk Global.
First Generation Won't Support D2D
Amazon confirmed in its regulatory filing that "D2D offerings are in development," but the company's first generation of Leo satellites will not include direct-to-device capabilities. The constellation, formerly known as Project Kuiper before its November 2025 rebrand, aims to deploy 3,236 satellites in low Earth orbit.
Early service is anticipated in 2026, focused initially on high-speed internet via stationary receivers. D2D functionality would come in later satellite generations.
Spectrum Flexibility Requested
Amazon is urging regulators to maintain flexible spectrum rules for D2D services. The company advocates that direct-to-device offerings should be permitted to operate across all spectrum bands allocated for terrestrial mobile wireless services.
In its filing, Amazon argued that "the value proposition is for D2D services to complement the use case of existing terrestrial mobile wireless service because D2D offers service beyond the reach of existing terrestrial mobile networks."
Filling Coverage Gaps
The technology is designed to provide connectivity in areas where cell towers cannot reach, transforming satellites from specialized broadband equipment into a seamless extension of cellular networks. For Amazon, this expands Leo's utility beyond home and business internet into mobile infrastructure, potentially securing partnerships with mobile network operators.
The competitive landscape has intensified as multiple companies race to make D2D connectivity commercially viable. Starlink's direct-to-cell service is already operational in beta, demonstrating the technology's feasibility at scale.
Amazon's regulatory push comes as the company seeks to ensure its satellite infrastructure can support evolving consumer demands for ubiquitous connectivity, regardless of terrestrial network availability.