Electric

Tesla Announces Big Software Update Coming This Spring

by Guillaume Rivard
Photo: Tesla

Tesla has announced a big software update that it plans to roll out in the coming weeks, without being more specific about timing. Here’s what’s in store.

First, as you can see on the picture above, the user interface will be revised on Model 3 and Model Y vehicles built from 2022 and equipped with an AMD chip. It will bring immersive full-screen vehicle controls when parked, large playback controls and quick access to Recents, Favorites & Up Next in media player, plus expandable Autopilot driving visualizations with a smaller map in the top right for trip guidance and a new navigation card at the bottom of the screen.

Next, the latest Model S and Model X vehicles equipped with an AMD chip will receive a new Auto Shift Beta feature allowing them to shift between Drive (D) and Reverse (R) based on their surroundings, in addition to shifting out of Park (P). This comes in the wake of Tesla replacing the drive gear stalk from the steering wheel on select vehicles with on-screen controls, but the automaker ultimately aims for cars to change shift positions automatically over time.

Photo: Tesla

New and updated apps are planned, too. Audible, Amazon’s audiobook app, will become a native app in the infotainment system, while the existing Spotify app will offer queues across vehicles and devices plus adjustable playback speed.

What else? Tesla will bring a new Hands-Free Trunk feature to 2021 and later Model S and Model X vehicles 2021, as well as the 2024 Model 3. Basically, the trunk will open automatically if you stand still behind it with your phone key. Meanwhile, Tesla will increase regenerative braking on highways, which will in turn improve range.

Photo: Tesla

One last thing: live Sentry Mode videos will be reviewable from notifications, meaning you’ll be able to see instantly if there’s a false alarm or not.

Don't miss our review of the refreshed 2024 Tesla Model 3.

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