Pet trackers aren’t exactly new, but Fi’s latest model is aiming to solve one of their biggest weaknesses. Specifically, it tackles what happens when your dog wanders somewhere with no mobile signal.
The new Fi Ultra combines GPS, LTE and T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service powered by Starlink in the States. This combination allows it to keep reporting a dog’s location even after leaving the reach of traditional cell towers. For owners who regularly hike, camp, or explore remote areas with their pets, it could be one of the most capable pet trackers currently available.
The tracker automatically switches between LTE and satellite connectivity without any manual input, so location updates continue even in rural areas and the backcountry across the US. That’s a significant step up from conventional GPS trackers, which often lose contact once mobile coverage disappears.
There is a trade-off, though. All that extra connectivity comes at the expense of battery life. Unlike the older Fi Series 3+, which can last anywhere from two weeks to three months depending on activity, the Fi Ultra is rated for around two days on a single charge due to its always-on GPS and satellite support. That’s a big drop, but some owners may happily accept more frequent charging in exchange for virtually continuous tracking.
Fi has also packed in several features designed for when a pet goes missing. Owners can activate Lost Mode through the Fi app to increase tracking frequency. Meanwhile, a Search Party feature allows nearby Fi users to help locate a lost dog’s tracker. The company also includes its Callback training system, which uses sounds and vibrations to encourage dogs to return to their owner. Safe Zone boundary alerts are also due to arrive in a future update.
The Fi Ultra works with most standard collars and harnesses. New customers will pay $199 for the tracker, plus a $20 activation fee and an annual subscription costing $189. Existing Fi members can add the Ultra to their account for $299 without taking out a separate subscription.
It’s certainly not the cheapest pet tracker on the market, but between satellite connectivity, community-powered recovery tools and built-in training features, the Fi Ultra looks to offer considerably more than simply showing where your dog is on a map. For adventurous owners, that extra peace of mind could be worth the premium.
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