The manufacturer Fi specializes in GPS trackers for dogs and has, until now, relied on a combination of a GPS module and LTE cellular connectivity to transmit the location to the accompanying app. With the new Fi Ultra, the company is taking it a step further: The tracker can also connect directly to SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network.
Tracking Even Without a Cellular Network
Previous models, such as the Fi 3+, only work reliably where a cellular network is available. The Fi Ultra is designed to close this very gap: If the tracker cannot find an LTE signal, it automatically switches to the Starlink satellite connection to transmit the location anyway. This ensures that dogs can still be located even in remote areas without cellular coverage.
The trade-off here is battery life: While an Apple AirTag lasts about a year on a single charge and the Fi 3+ lasts up to three months, the Fi Ultra’s battery lasts only a few days when the satellite connection is active. To conserve battery life, the tracker therefore automatically switches back to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or LTE as soon as one of these connections becomes available.
Callback Feature via App
In addition to basic location tracking, the Fi Ultra also features the Fi Callback function. This allows you to send audible and vibrating signals to the tracker via the app, which can be used to train dogs to return to their owner on command. The tracker can be attached either to a collar or to a dog harness. Similar to competitors, such as the recently introduced SATELLAI Collar Go, Fi combines classic GPS tracking with smart additional features for dog owners.
Pricing and Availability
Fi Ultra will initially launch exclusively in the U.S. at a price of $199 (equivalent to about 174 euros). Access to the Starlink network requires an additional annual subscription of $189 (about 165 euros). It is currently unclear when and at what price the tracker will be available internationally, such as in Germany. The older Fi 3+ is already available in Germany for around 199 euros via Amazon. Those looking for alternatives without a satellite connection will also find more affordable options for everyday use in the UGREEN Bluetooth trackers, though these lack the range of a GPS or satellite tracker.
