Smart pet technology company Fi has announced the launch of its newest device, the Fi Ultra. The new tracker is the first consumer wearable outside of smartphones to feature direct-to-cell satellite connectivity through SpaceX’s Starlink network.
The device is designed specifically for adventurous dogs and owners who travel beyond traditional cellular boundaries. Standard GPS pet trackers usually drop their signals the moment a dog enters a cellular dead zone. The new model solves this problem by using a dual-backhaul system that automatically switches between LTE networks and satellite coverage without requiring any manual adjustments from the owner.
In addition to satellite connectivity, the tracker includes a dual-band high-precision GPS chip that provides continuous location data. This always-on positioning allows owners to keep tabs on their pets under heavy tree canopy or deep inside rural canyons. Rather than relying on static shocks for training, the device uses a sound and vibration system with adjustable intensity levels to help signal dogs to return home.
The advanced features do impact battery performance compared to earlier models. While older versions like the Series 3+ can last for months on a single charge, the new satellite-enabled tracker lasts closer to two days due to the demands of continuous GPS and satellite tracking.
Fi works across North America and much of Europe, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, the Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey.
The hardware is available on the official website for $199 US for new customers, which requires a $189 US annual subscription for the satellite and cellular data. Existing members can purchase the new hardware for a flat fee of $299 to upgrade their current setup.
With Starlink, this means excellent chances of finding your dog in areas outside of cell coverage.
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