Amazon’s Leo Ultra: Speeding Ahead in the Satellite Internet Race

Amazon has unveiled the Ultra antenna for its Leo satellite internet service. Previously known as Project Kuiper, the initiative aims to rival Starlink.

According to Amazon’s website, Leo offers the highest download and upload speeds, with the Leo Ultra being the fastest customer terminal capable of download speeds up to 1 Gbps and upload speeds up to 400 Mbps. A smaller 11-inch Pro antenna supports reception speed up to 400 Mbps, and the 7-inch square Nano antenna up to 100 Mbps. In comparison, Starlink business plans support download speeds up to 400 Mbps, which is less than half of the maximum speed advertised by Amazon. However, the upcoming SpaceX V3 Starlink satellite is purported to support speeds up to 1 Tbps.

As of now, Leo’s service cannot match Musk’s creation, with only 150 satellites launched into orbit. Currently, Leo is primarily available to corporate and government clients. Naturally, it will eventually be available to regular customers.

In a strategic move to expand its satellite network, Amazon aims to launch over 3,236 satellites eventually. This expansion is expected to provide global coverage, enhancing connectivity in underserved regions. The competitive edge lies in Amazon’s operational approach, focusing on reducing latency and improving user experience through innovative technological solutions.