Smart pet technology firm Fi has launched the Fi Ultra Dog Tracker, the first such device with Starlink connectivity. The tracker automatically fails over to T-Mobile's T-Satellite direct-to-cell service when LTE is unavailable, tapping into SpaceX's low Earth orbit satellite constellation. It costs $199 and is designed to fit any dog collar or harness.
The Fi Ultra expands on existing GPS and LTE trackers by providing connectivity in areas without cellular coverage. This makes it particularly useful for owners of adventurous dogs who roam into remote or rural locations. However, early testing reveals relatively poor battery life compared to other pet trackers, a tradeoff for the added satellite capability.
The device uses Starlink's direct-to-cell service, which is still in early deployment stages. T-Mobile and SpaceX have been testing the network, with limited coverage expected to grow over time. The tracker's reliance on this nascent infrastructure means reliability may vary until the satellite constellation is more fully built out.
For pet owners, the Fi Ultra offers peace of mind for dogs that wander into areas where cellular signals drop. But the shorter battery life may require more frequent charging than competing devices. Fi targets "adventure dogs of any size," suggesting a niche market of hikers, hunters, and rural pet owners.
Critics note that satellite trackers still face latency and power consumption challenges. The tradeoff between constant connectivity and battery longevity remains a key hurdle for widespread adoption in pet wearables.