Tesla is gearing up to release its 2024 Holiday Update, featuring numerous enhancements that will roll out via over-the-air updates beginning next week. The update introduces an official Tesla app for Apple Watch, enabling users to use their watch as a phone key, check battery charge, open the frunk, and activate climate control. This addition allows for greater convenience, particularly for Apple Watch users who may leave their iPhones in the car during workouts.
Tesla’s big holiday update brings Apple Watch app and tons of new features
The update also allows users to save Dashcam and Sentry Mode clips directly to their phones for editing and sharing through the Tesla app. In addition, the stalkless Model 3 will benefit from a new autoshift feature, automatically transitioning between Drive and Reverse for improved handling during parking lot maneuvers and multi-point turns. Furthermore, SiriusXM will now be accessible for Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck owners.
Tesla has incorporated features such as the ability to set a preferred battery charge level upon arrival at a destination, alongside a new routing option that filters search results to display detour times. A precipitation map will now be visible on the navigation screen, providing real-time weather updates at the driver’s destination. A new rear cross-traffic alert feature will notify drivers with an audible warning of any pedestrians or vehicles crossing behind the car when it is in reverse.
Another notable feature within the Cybertruck update is the ability to personalize vehicle avatars with custom wraps and license plates. Users can select from preloaded designs or upload their custom options via USB, with further details to be shared on GitHub. The rear camera has also seen improvements, as the feed is now larger and provides pinch-to-zoom functionality.
The update will also upgrade TuneIn Radio service, enhancing the listening experience for Tesla drivers without the need for setup. Additional features include a rear arcade for backseat gaming, a festive Santa Mode for Cybertruck avatars, and the ability to schedule light shows remotely through the Tesla app. New games like Boomerang Fu, which offers a multiplayer action experience, and Fart On Contact, introducing playful bum detection, will also be part of the holiday entertainment offerings.
Drivers will find a new seat control panel that allows for adjustments to unoccupied passenger seats as well as second-row seating. The maintenance summary feature will enable owners to view and track vehicle maintenance items on the touchscreen. Other improvements include rear screen remote video playback controls, nearby parking searches, and automatic volume reduction of music while reversing to minimize distractions. Navigation systems will now dynamically route around road closures, and Sentry Mode will send mobile notifications if a door handle is pulled. Model S, X, and Cybertruck owners will now have access to an energy consumption page on the Energy App.
Tesla has also addressed connectivity concerns by allowing vehicles without premium connectivity to display traffic on navigation routes. When arriving at a Supercharger, drivers will receive on-screen notifications regarding any stalls that are out of service. With these comprehensive updates, Tesla continues to enhance the driving experience, though further details on some features remain to be fully unveiled.
Featured image credit: Moritz Kindler/Unsplash
