Fi Ultra: Starlink-Enabled Pet Tracker Launched

For pet owners who love to explore the great outdoors with their furry companions, a new gadget promises to keep tabs on them, no matter how far off the beaten path they go. The Fi Ultra, the latest offering from Fi (formerly known as Fi GPS Collar), is making waves as the first pet tracker to leverage SpaceX's Starlink satellite technology.

This innovative device builds upon existing GPS and LTE tracking capabilities. Its standout feature is its ability to automatically switch to T-Mobile's direct-to-cell service, powered by Starlink's low Earth orbit satellites, whenever traditional cellular coverage drops out. This means that even in remote areas without cell signal, your pet's location can still be tracked anywhere in the United States. It's a significant leap for pet safety, especially for adventure dogs that frequently find themselves in wilderness areas.

Designed to be robust enough for "adventure dogs of any size," the Fi Ultra is intended to attach easily to existing dog collars or harnesses, meaning you won't need to buy a whole new setup for your pup. The device is priced at $199, placing it in the premium segment of the pet tracking market.

While the nationwide coverage is a major draw, early testing by The Verge indicates some potential drawbacks. Notably, the battery life of the Fi Ultra appears to be relatively shorter compared to other pet trackers currently on the market. This is a crucial consideration for owners who rely on extended tracking periods without frequent recharging.

Despite the battery life concerns, the integration of Starlink technology represents a fascinating development in the IoT space, extending satellite connectivity to everyday consumer devices. It hints at a future where connectivity is truly ubiquitous, even for our pets.