Jakarta, INTI - Amazon is getting closer to launching its satellite internet service, Amazon Leo, which is projected to be a major competitor to SpaceX's Starlink.
Reported by GSM Arena, Amazon's VP for its Leo project, Chris Weber, revealed that the company has placed more than 390 satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO). This number is considered enough to provide continuous internet service in the initial latitudes.
Weber also stated that Amazon has completed enough satellite launches for initial services this year. This statement indicates that the Amazon Leo service is likely to be commercially available before the end of 2026.
Competition with Starlink
Amazon Leo is an internet satellite constellation developed to provide high-speed internet access from low-Earth orbit. Amazon's Leo project will rival SpaceX's established Starlink, which has a growing satellite network of approximately 10,000 satellites.
Like Starlink, Amazon plans to offer internet service to consumers with Leo terminals, as well as to governments and companies like airlines. For prospective users who want to try the service early, Amazon has opened a waitlist ahead of its official launch.
The company will offer three receiver options to suit user needs, namely Leo - Nano (7" by 7") supporting up to 100Mbps downloads, Pro supporting up to 400Mbps (11" by 11"), and Ultra supporting up to 1Gbps download speeds (this one is 20" by 30").
Conclusion
Amazon is moving closer to launching its Amazon Leo satellite internet service after placing more than 390 satellites in low-Earth orbit. The company stated that it has completed the necessary satellite launches, and the service is expected to be commercially available before the end of 2026. Amazon Leo will compete directly with SpaceX's Starlink in providing high-speed satellite-based internet.
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