Starlink Powers New Pet Tracker for Remote Adventures

For pet owners venturing off the beaten path, Fi has introduced its latest Ultra smart collar, featuring a unique satellite-powered connection. This new integration leverages T-Satellite, T-Mobile's service that utilizes Starlink satellites to provide location updates when terrestrial cell coverage is absent.

The technology is adaptable, seamlessly switching back to cellular networks, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth when available to conserve battery life and data. This ensures owners can track their pets' whereabouts, even in remote locations like national parks, as confirmed by Fi's CTO who tested it in areas with no cell service.

While the Fi Ultra offers real-time updates and a location history, its battery life is a point of consideration, lasting just over two days per charge. The collar supports USB-C charging, a common feature for portable electronics.

Additionally, the collar includes a callback mode that uses sound and vibration to guide a dog back on command, though it lacks a shock feature. However, the advanced capabilities come at a premium price, with a significant upfront cost, activation fee, and mandatory annual membership for new users. Existing subscribers have an upgrade option at a set fee.