A new pet tracker uses Starlink satellites to locate dogs even in areas without cellular service, marking the first consumer device to integrate direct satellite connectivity.Fi, a pet technology company, launched the Fi Ultra collar, which combines Starlink’s T-Satellite technology with traditional LTE, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
The device automatically switches to satellite mode when cellular coverage drops.
The announcement quickly gained attention as a practical application of Elon Musk’s Starlink network for everyday use.
BREAKING: Starlink is helping track dogs from space. Fi just launched Fi Ultra, world’s 1st consumer wearable powered by T-Satellite with Starlink
• Works beyond cellular coverage
• Combines Starlink, LTE, GPS, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
• Switches to satellite when LTE is unavailable pic.twitter.com/06PWFaWeIU— DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) July 8, 2026
How the Technology Works
The Fi Ultra collar is not a traditional microchip implant. It is a wearable GPS tracker with multiple connectivity options. When LTE service is unavailable, it connects directly to Starlink satellites for location updates.
“Fi Ultra has transformed what’s possible for dog owners,” said Jonathan Bensamoun, co-founder and CEO of Fi. “Our mission has always been to strengthen the human-animal connection via data, to give dogs more freedom while keeping them safe, and with the power of T-Satellite with Starlink behind Fi Ultra, that mission now extends to every corner of the country and soon, every corner of the world.”
“But as this is a first-of-its-kind product, we also expect Fi Ultra to bring new members into the Fi community, people who held off on a tracker before because it simply didn’t work where they live or spend time with their dog,” Bensamoun added.
How Pet Owners Participate
Pet owners purchase the Fi Ultra collar and subscribe to Fi’s service plan. The device tracks the dog’s location in real time through the Fi app. Owners receive alerts if their pet leaves a designated safe zone. No surgical implantation is required — the collar is worn like a regular dog collar.
Pricing reportedly varies depending on the subscription length and features selected. Longer-term plans offer lower monthly rates. The company states that the collar works across North America with plans for broader international expansion.
- New Members: $199 plus an annual membership of $189
- Existing Members: A one-time fee of $299
The Fi Ultra is built for adventurous dogs of all sizes and can be used with standard dog collars or harnesses. For dogs that are currently utilizing a Series 3 or Series 3+, the Fi Ultra can easily attach to their current collar. Fi Ultra is available at Fitracking.com.
The device requires an active subscription to enable full satellite and cellular connectivity. Battery life is advertised to last up to several weeks depending on usage, with wireless charging included.
What This Means for the Future
This launch represents an early step in expanding satellite connectivity to consumer wearables. It could reduce lost pets in rural, mountainous, or off-grid areas where traditional trackers fail. Industry observers see potential for broader applications in outdoor safety and remote monitoring.
Pros include reliable tracking in remote locations, multiple connectivity redundancies, and potentially faster recovery of lost pets. Cons may include higher subscription costs for satellite service, battery life limitations under constant satellite use, and the need for the dog to wear the collar consistently.
Fi has stated that location data is encrypted and accessible only to the pet owner through the app. However, any device that transmits location data raises standard questions about data security and potential third-party access.
Fi says it complies with applicable privacy laws, but experts recommend reviewing the company’s privacy policy before purchase.
Will This Technology Extend to Humans?
No plans have been announced to use this exact system for tracking people. Traditional RFID microchips for humans are not in widespread consumer use, though medical alert systems and some military or emergency responder trackers already employ GPS and satellite elements. Future consumer applications for vulnerable individuals (such as those with dementia) could emerge, but regulatory, ethical, and privacy hurdles remain significant.
Similar pet and asset trackers using satellite or hybrid networks already exist in limited forms, but Fi claims the Ultra is the first to integrate Starlink’s direct satellite connectivity at the consumer level.
Success could encourage other companies to integrate Starlink or similar satellite networks into wearables for pets, livestock, or outdoor gear. Starlink continues to expand its direct-to-cell and consumer applications, potentially leading to more everyday devices with off-grid connectivity.
Provided by Dallas Express
