- Tesla’s software update this holiday introduces festive features like Cybertruck Santa Mode and Light Shows.
- The update enhances navigation with detour-time estimates and a precipitation overlay.
- It includes an Apple Watch app for seamless vehicle control and monitoring.
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Tesla’s latest software update is a festive and futuristic blend that highlights the company’s penchant for balancing whimsy with innovation. This over-the-air release introduces a suite of features that range from playful to practical, ensuring there is something for everyone in the Tesla community
The update offers both convenience with the Apple Watch app and fun holiday features for Cybertruck owners.
Tesla’s Apple Watch App Modernizes Vehicle Control
Arguably the most impactful addition is Tesla’s debut Apple Watch app. This bespoke feature transforms the smartwatch into an extension of the vehicle itself, enabling users to lock and unlock doors, monitor battery levels, and control climate settings, all from their wrist.
The app even facilitates remote access to the frunk, offering a layer of utility that feels straight out of a sci-fi film.
This integration meets the growing demand for connected tech. Tesla joins competitors like Rivian and Lucid in offering wearable features but stands out for balancing ease of use with advanced functionality.
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Tesla Updates Navigation with Smarter Routes and Weather Insights
Tesla’s navigation system receives a thoughtful upgrade, now offering features like detour-time estimates and an energy-level planner. The latter allows drivers to select a desired battery percentage for arrival, prompting the route planner to automatically include or exclude charging stops.
A precipitation overlay brings weather data directly into the navigation interface, visually illustrating rain patterns at the destination.
These upgrades help both commuters and travelers, showing Tesla’s focus on simplifying range management and leading in software-driven vehicle design.
Cybertruck Owners Enjoy Festive Santa Mode and Custom Avatars
Cybertruck owners get a festive Santa sleigh avatar with reindeer and elves, highlighting Tesla’s playful side. They can also customize their on-screen avatar with preloaded wraps or personal designs for added personalization.
Some may find this unnecessary, but others will value the chance to personalize their vehicle, which suits the Cybertruck’s unique design.
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Tesla’s FSD V13.2 Brings Autonomous Driving Closer
For those eyeing Tesla’s autonomous ambitions, the FSD V13.2 rollout is the most serious upgrade. Available to vehicles equipped with Hardware 4, the update introduces “parked-to-parked” functionality. According to not a tesla app, this means a Tesla can initiate driving maneuvers from a stationary position, execute complex tasks like three-point turns, and even navigate into parking spots autonomously.
Despite legal and technical limits requiring driver oversight, this update moves Tesla closer to its goal of full self-driving. While it reduces the need for driver input, some doubt Elon Musk’s 2025 target for unsupervised driving.
Tesla Adds Festive Light Shows and Quirky “Fart on Contact” Feature
Tesla’s flair for entertainment continues with features like remotely scheduled Light Shows, now including festive themes. Model 3, Model Y, and Model X owners can enjoy these visual spectacles directly from their app.
And for those with a sense of humor, the “Fart on Contact” feature adds an irreverent twist to the driving experience, building on Tesla’s already-famous array of Easter eggs.
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Balancing Whimsy and Practicality
Tesla’s holiday update highlights the brand’s blend of advanced technology and playful features, keeping owners entertained on and off the road.
While not every feature, like Cybertruck Santa Mode, will appeal to everyone, it showcases Tesla’s drive to break away from traditional car design.
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SOURCE | IMAGES: TESLA
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