Amazon launched the first Kuiper internet satellites into orbit, which will compete with Starlink

Amazon has launched the first 27 satellites of its Kuiper project, which aims to provide global satellite internet and compete with SpaceX's Starlink, into orbit atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, according to Reuters.

Project Kuiper, which will consist of a constellation of 3,236 satellites, is one of Amazon's largest investments. The company plans to begin providing services in late 2025, if it can keep to its launch schedule. According to the license, half of the satellites must be launched by mid-2026, but analysts say Amazon could ask for a delay.

Kuiper is supposed to provide internet access in hard-to-reach regions. In 2023, Amazon has already tested prototype satellites and introduced consumer terminals for connecting to the network, the cost of which is less than $400.

In the satellite Internet market, the company will compete not only with Starlink, which has over 5 million users in 125 countries, but also with major American telecommunications operators such as AT&T and T-Mobile.