Fi’s Starlink-enabled pet tracker extends coverage beyond LTE
Fi has launched the Fi Ultra, a pet tracker integrating Starlink satellite connectivity to maintain tracking in areas without cellular service. The device aims to provide continuous location data for pets by utilizing SpaceX's satellite network.
Fi has released its latest pet tracking device, the Fi Ultra, which incorporates Starlink satellite technology to offer location tracking even in areas with no cellular coverage. This new device builds upon existing GPS and LTE tracking capabilities by automatically switching to T-Mobile's direct-to-cell satellite service when traditional networks fail.
The technology allows Fi Ultra users to leverage SpaceX's Starlink satellite constellation to track their pets anywhere across the United States. This is intended to provide a more robust and continuous tracking experience, particularly for pets that roam in remote or underserved areas where cellular signals are unreliable.
However, early testing suggests some trade-offs. The Fi Ultra exhibits relatively poor battery life compared to other pet trackers on the market. The company states the device is designed for "adventure dogs of any size" and can be attached to existing collars or harnesses, retailing at $199.
This development positions Fi to address a critical limitation of current pet trackers, which are often rendered useless when pets venture into cellular dead zones. The integration of satellite technology aims to provide pet owners with greater peace of mind.