Tech Giants Race to Dominate Satellite Internet

Amazon, SpaceX, and others vie for the future of global connectivity

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:04pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a futuristic satellite network, with neon cyan and magenta lights illuminating the intricate hardware and infrastructure, conceptually representing the technological innovation and scale of next-generation satellite internet systems.The race to build the most advanced and expansive satellite internet networks is intensifying, as tech giants compete to connect the world through innovative space-based infrastructure.Hawthorne Today

The satellite internet industry is rapidly evolving, with major tech companies like Amazon and SpaceX investing billions to build out vast networks of low-earth orbit satellites. These new systems aim to provide high-speed internet access to remote areas and expand connectivity worldwide.

Why it matters

Satellite internet represents the next frontier in global connectivity, with the potential to bridge the digital divide and bring reliable, high-speed internet to underserved regions. However, the race to dominate this market is intensifying, with tech giants competing to deploy the largest and most advanced satellite constellations.

The details

Amazon recently announced an $11.57 billion deal to acquire satellite company Globalstar, as it looks to take on SpaceX's Starlink network. Other major players include Eutelsat OneWeb, Telesat Lightspeed, and AST SpaceMobile, each with their own plans for thousands of satellites in low-earth orbit. These systems aim to provide a range of services, from rural household internet to aviation, shipping, and emergency communications.

  • On April 14, 2026, Amazon announced its acquisition of Globalstar.
  • SpaceX's Starlink network currently has over 9,500 operational satellites, with a long-term goal of 42,000 satellites.
  • Eutelsat OneWeb plans to launch its next-generation constellation of over 600 satellites.
  • Telesat Lightspeed is targeting the launch of 150-200 satellites starting in 2026-2027.
  • AST SpaceMobile is in the early deployment stage, with 6 satellites in orbit and a goal of 45-60 satellites by 2026.

The players

Amazon

The e-commerce giant that recently acquired satellite company Globalstar in an $11.57 billion deal to bolster its satellite internet ambitions.

SpaceX

The aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, which operates the Starlink satellite internet network, currently the largest in the world with over 9,500 operational satellites.

Eutelsat OneWeb

A joint venture between Eutelsat and OneWeb, planning to launch a next-generation constellation of over 600 satellites for satellite internet services.

Telesat Lightspeed

A Canadian satellite internet company targeting the launch of 150-200 satellites starting in 2026-2027.

AST SpaceMobile

A Texas-based company in the early deployment stage of its satellite internet network, with a goal of 45-60 satellites by 2026.

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What’s next

As these satellite internet companies continue to deploy their networks, the competition for market share and global connectivity will intensify. Regulatory approvals, technological advancements, and the ability to serve diverse customer segments will be key factors in determining the winners in this rapidly evolving industry.

The takeaway

The race to dominate the satellite internet market is heating up, with tech giants like Amazon and SpaceX investing billions to build out their networks. This competition has the potential to revolutionize global connectivity, bringing high-speed internet to remote areas and expanding access to a range of services, from aviation to emergency communications.