Fi Ultra review: Starlink-enabled pet tracker excels where LTE fails

Fi Ultra is the first Starlink-enabled pet tracker available for purchase. It builds on existing GPS and LTE trackers by adding automatic failover to T-Mobile's T-Satellite-branded direct-to-cell service when entering areas without cellular coverage. This allows owners to utilize SpaceX's network of low Earth orbit Starlink satellites to track their pets anywhere in the US.

The Fi Ultra is designed to be compatible with any dog collar or harness, making it suitable for "adventure dogs of any size," according to the company. It is priced at $199. Early testing revealed some tradeoffs, including relatively poor battery life compared to other pet trackers on the market.

The company's decision to integrate Starlink technology addresses a significant pain point for pet owners who have struggled to locate their pets in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. Why this matters: The Fi Ultra's use of Starlink technology has significant implications for the pet tracking industry and beyond. For pet owners, it provides peace of mind knowing that they can locate their pets even in remote areas with no cellular coverage.

For developers, it showcases the potential for integrating satellite technology into consumer products. As the adoption of satellite-based connectivity grows, we can expect to see more innovative applications across various industries. However, questions remain about the long-term viability of this technology, including the cost and accessibility of satellite-based services, as well as the environmental impact of expanding satellite constellations like Starlink.

For businesses, the Fi Ultra's success could signal a new frontier for location-based services, but it also raises questions about the infrastructure and regulatory hurdles that must be overcome.