Electric vehicle giant Tesla has just teased a wide range of new features in an impending Spring software update as it seeks to further improve user experience.
It seems like the one Tesla owners usually get as an end-of-the-year “holiday update,” which kind of disappointed them in 2023.
Ahead of the release, Tesla revealed the following new features as part of the upcoming software update in Spring.
New UI
Tesla announced that the planned software update will introduce a new User Interface to both the Model 3 electric sedan and Model Y electric crossover with AMD chips. Notably, these EVs have undergone production since 2022.
Presented below are the main visual updates for the Tesla Model 3/Y:
- Immersive full-screen vehicle controls when parked
- Bigger playback controls & quick access to Recents, Favorites & Up Next in media player
- Expandable Autopilot driving visualizations and a smaller map in the top right for trip direction
Tesla has yet to indicate if the UI update will also be available for models using Intel chips.
Auto-Shift Beta
Tesla also announced plans to launch “Auto Shift Beta” to refreshed Model S and Model X (2021 and beyond), enabling drivers to utilize the screen to change gears.
Tesla aims to enable its electric vehicles to be capable of changing gears by itself in the future. Notably, Tesla previously eliminated the drive gear stalk from the steering wheel of the Model S, X, and 3.
Audible App
Tesla is also teasing the imminent launch of new native apps as part of the Spring update. According to the release, Tesla EVs can soon access the native Audible app. It promises to offer a more enjoyable and immersive listening experience for audiobook enthusiasts.
Updated Spotify
Tesla also updated the Spotify integration on its electric vehicles. It now allows drivers to sync their Spotify queue across cars and devices and adjust playback speed.
Hands-Free Trunk
The new “‘Hands-Free Trunk” feature is also set to arrive in Model S and Model X (2021 and later) and upgraded Model 3. As the name suggests, the trunk will open autonomously if the owner stands behind it with the phone key.
Sentry Mode Recording Previews
Tesla also teased a new Sentry Mode Recording Previews feature. As per the release, the company will soon offer a short clip of Sentry Mode recordings for owners to review on their phones whenever the alarm is activated in select countries.
Increased Regenerative Braking on Highways
Tesla will improve the Model S and Model X’s (2021 and later) regenerative braking systems on highways to maximize energy efficiency and prolong battery life.
Rear Passenger Trip Details
Last but not least, Tesla also plans to allow rear passengers in equipped models to access trip information such as time and temperature, etc. They can see the function at the top of the rear touchscreen, which further improves the passenger’s trip experience.
Tesla has yet to announce the specific release date of the new software update. Nonetheless, we can expect it to arrive in the coming days.
