AI Generated Image
Hands-on with the Fi Ultra Starlink-enabled pet tracker
The Verge • • technology
Key Points:
- Fi Ultra is the first pet tracker to combine GPS, LTE, and Starlink satellite connectivity via T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service, allowing pet tracking in cellular dead zones across the US.
- The device costs $199 plus a $20 activation fee and requires a $189 annual subscription, featuring dual-band GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and is designed for "adventure dogs of any size," though it may be bulky for smaller breeds.
- Battery life is limited to about two days per charge due to the power demands of satellite connectivity and frequent location updates, making it less practical for everyday use compared to Fi’s other trackers.
- In testing, the tracker successfully connected to Starlink satellites in LTE dead zones with location updates every 2-3 minutes, though occasional reconnection delays of up to 5 minutes were observed.
- The Fi Ultra can be added to an existing Fi subscription for $299, allowing it to work alongside other Fi trackers for comprehensive coverage in remote areas, making it a valuable but costly option for outdoor enthusiasts.
