Amazon advances satellite internet with 1,000th satellite built

Amazon is advancing its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet project, recently manufacturing its 1,000th satellite at its facility in Kirkland, Washington. The company is preparing to launch its commercial service using the Vulcan rocket and aims to provide high-speed broadband to global markets, positioning itself as a primary competitor to SpaceX’s Starlink.

In South Africa, Amazon Leo plans to expand its strategy beyond fixed broadband to include direct-to-device (D2D) services, which allow unmodified mobile phones and IoT devices to connect directly to satellites. Mark Anderson, head of consumer operations at Amazon Leo EMEA, stated that the company has applied for necessary regulatory licenses and is engaging with local mobile operators. This D2D service is expected to be introduced in South Africa around 2028, serving as a complement to existing fibre and wireless infrastructure.