Wire · technology
Amazon Leo vs Starlink: New filings reveal Amazon's plans to launch over 5000 satellites
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Fusion42 · 28 July 2026 · Fusion42 review
Amazon has filed with the FCC to launch 5,105 low-Earth-orbit satellites for its Amazon Leo constellation, enabling direct-to-device satellite internet service on compatible smartphones. The constellation will operate across five orbital shells with inter-satellite laser connectivity and in-orbit signal processing, with initial service planned for later in 2026.
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◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
Amazon is building a second satellite internet pipe with 5,100+ satellites and direct-to-device capability, turning the market from Starlink-only to duopoly. If you make ground equipment, chipsets for satellite reception, or last-mile backhaul, you now have a second customer at scale willing to buy.
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