Fi Ultra stands as the initial pet tracker on the market that taps into Starlink connectivity. It builds on standard GPS and LTE models by switching automatically to T-Mobile’s T-Satellite direct-to-cell option when signals fade in remote spots. Owners can therefore rely on SpaceX low Earth orbit satellites to monitor pets throughout the United States. Early trials show certain compromises, notably shorter battery endurance than typical pet trackers.

The device suits adventure dogs of varying sizes and attaches to existing collars or harnesses. Pricing starts at 199 dollars for the unit plus a 20 dollar activation charge, with an annual subscription of 189 dollars required. It adds dual-band GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi alongside LTE for improved accuracy.

199 dollars

Fi Ultra combines T-Satellite, Starlink, GPS, and LTE to locate lost dogs in any location. An annual fee of 189 dollars applies and the unit runs for roughly two days per charge, yet it proves valuable for owners who explore remote terrain with their pets.

A 513 mAh cell powers the unit for about two days inside its 75 mm by 40 mm by 25 mm housing that weighs 68 g. IP68 and IP66K seals guard against dust, water, and saltwater. A compact vibration motor and speaker enable Fi’s shock-free Callback training feature.

Testing took place roughly an hour from the Francis Marion National Forest in South Carolina, an area where LTE vanishes and wildlife appears. Attachment to Gus the dog’s collar proved simple via the spring clasp. The size claim for any dog seems optimistic, as the tracker appeared large on an 80-pound griffon and exceeds the neck width of small breeds.

The Fi Ultra remains slim yet noticeably wider than competing trackers tested previously.

The unit pairs with the Fi app for live location views. Lost Mode was activated to increase radio activity and deliver real-time updates rather than periodic checks.

Beyond LTE zones the tracker linked promptly to the T-Satellite network, shown by a satellite symbol, and refreshed the map every two to three minutes. This pace matches performance observed with weak LTE signals nearby.

Three minutes between updates can feel lengthy during an active search, yet the feature surpasses having no data at all in dead zones.

1/4

The app displays both user and dog positions during walks, with sound and vibration options available for trained callbacks.

Over a 30-minute satellite session the connection occasionally stalled during reconnection, delaying updates by nearly five minutes.

Fi notes that terrestrial towers receive priority, yet satellite handoffs occur frequently while the device seeks any available LTE signal. Even minimal cellular bars outperform satellite links for stability, which can cause brief reconnection delays.

Multiple radios drain power quickly. The promised two-day runtime proved difficult to achieve, requiring daily charges after extended walks and charges every other day during lighter use. A single 30-minute tracking session consumed nearly 20 percent of the battery.

The tracker measures three inches across and half an inch thick while clipping firmly to the collar.

Works in Space.

USB-C charging completes in under two hours, but the brief runtime positions the unit as a premium occasional tool rather than a daily driver. Other Fi models such as the Mini and 3 Plus last weeks per charge and include health, sleep, and behavior insights bundled with membership.

The company attributes the shorter life to satellite support layered atop cellular plus frequent high-precision location fixes. GPS receives heavier use here than in non-satellite Fi trackers.

Owners can add the Ultra to an existing plan for a one-time 299 dollar fee, offering better value than standalone purchase. It clips to current Fi collars and shares the app, providing coverage in remote areas alongside standard tracking benefits.

Experience in rural Idaho, where dogs often vanish into valleys, highlights the value of coverage beyond cell towers. Regular hikers or campers in isolated regions may find the Ultra worthwhile as costly insurance. The satellite fallback functions reliably and delivers reassurance, though more frequent charging than conventional GPS units is required.

Photos courtesy of The Verge