Photo: Tesla
Tesla is preparing one of the most important software updates of 2024. The so-called Spring Update introduces a new user interface, expanded Autopilot visualizations, and Auto Shift Beta, among the most important changes. However, not all features will roll out to all vehicles, as many are model-specific and also depend on the MCU type installed in the car.
As the leader of the software-defined vehicle market, Tesla is churning out updates faster than its owners get to test all the new features. And yet, from time to time, the EV maker impresses everyone with a comprehensive software package that brings many new features or a user interface change. Probably most people think of the Holiday Update that Tesla pushes every Christmas, but that is not the only moment feature-packed updates are released.
Tesla is working on a comprehensive "Spring Release," and it offered a preview of the features that will roll out soon to Tesla vehicles. We don't know exactly when the Spring Update will be released, but it will likely happen in the coming weeks. It's worth pointing out that the final release might introduce more changes, as was the case with other important updates. It's also expected that a few bugs will make it into production, which Tesla usually corrects with quick bug-fix releases.
The preview looks full of changes, but there's a catch because not all will go out to everybody. Having the latest hardware helps, but some features are model-specific. For instance, a new user interface will shine on the Model 3 and Model Y vehicles with the AMD Ryzen chip. The new layout looks inspired by the one in the Cybertruck but without the fancy lettering. However, vehicle visualization now takes up most of the screen real estate when in Park. Tesla calls this "immersive full-screen vehicle controls."
Once you switch in Drive, you'll notice the expandable Autopilot visualizations, with a smaller map in the top right of the screen for trip guidance. The update also introduces larger playback controls front and center with quick access to Recents, Favorites & Up Next in the media player. There's a new navigation card next to it showing the trip's progress and key stats.
Owners of 2021 and later Model S and Model X vehicles will get Auto Shift Beta. This can shift between Drive and Reverse, in addition to automatically shifting out of Park as before. The computer determines your direction based on the vehicle's surroundings. A picture shared by Tesla suggests that the driver can also confirm the direction using the steering wheel/yoke. You can access the settings for this feature in Vehicle settings > Pedals & Steering > Auto Shift (Beta).
The refreshed Model S, Model X, and the new Model 3 also gain the ability to automatically open the trunk when standing behind your car with the Phone Key. This can be enabled in Vehicle Settings > Locks > Hands-Free Trunk. The feature will not land on older vehicles because it depends on the Ultra-Wideband chip to precisely locate the driver.
One of the most exciting new features is previewing Sentry Mode recordings on your phone. As Tesla explains, it's not the full video but a "brief clip" recorded when the Sentry Mode alarm is triggered. While this feature will be available on all vehicles, it will not be released in all countries, supposedly because of local privacy rules. The refreshed Model S and Model X will also get increased regenerative braking on highways. Other updates include an Audible native app, Spotify app improvements, and more information for the rear screen.
Tesla is working on a comprehensive "Spring Release," and it offered a preview of the features that will roll out soon to Tesla vehicles. We don't know exactly when the Spring Update will be released, but it will likely happen in the coming weeks. It's worth pointing out that the final release might introduce more changes, as was the case with other important updates. It's also expected that a few bugs will make it into production, which Tesla usually corrects with quick bug-fix releases.
The preview looks full of changes, but there's a catch because not all will go out to everybody. Having the latest hardware helps, but some features are model-specific. For instance, a new user interface will shine on the Model 3 and Model Y vehicles with the AMD Ryzen chip. The new layout looks inspired by the one in the Cybertruck but without the fancy lettering. However, vehicle visualization now takes up most of the screen real estate when in Park. Tesla calls this "immersive full-screen vehicle controls."
Once you switch in Drive, you'll notice the expandable Autopilot visualizations, with a smaller map in the top right of the screen for trip guidance. The update also introduces larger playback controls front and center with quick access to Recents, Favorites & Up Next in the media player. There's a new navigation card next to it showing the trip's progress and key stats.
Owners of 2021 and later Model S and Model X vehicles will get Auto Shift Beta. This can shift between Drive and Reverse, in addition to automatically shifting out of Park as before. The computer determines your direction based on the vehicle's surroundings. A picture shared by Tesla suggests that the driver can also confirm the direction using the steering wheel/yoke. You can access the settings for this feature in Vehicle settings > Pedals & Steering > Auto Shift (Beta).
The refreshed Model S, Model X, and the new Model 3 also gain the ability to automatically open the trunk when standing behind your car with the Phone Key. This can be enabled in Vehicle Settings > Locks > Hands-Free Trunk. The feature will not land on older vehicles because it depends on the Ultra-Wideband chip to precisely locate the driver.
One of the most exciting new features is previewing Sentry Mode recordings on your phone. As Tesla explains, it's not the full video but a "brief clip" recorded when the Sentry Mode alarm is triggered. While this feature will be available on all vehicles, it will not be released in all countries, supposedly because of local privacy rules. The refreshed Model S and Model X will also get increased regenerative braking on highways. Other updates include an Audible native app, Spotify app improvements, and more information for the rear screen.
Your Tesla gets better while you sleep
— Tesla (@Tesla) April 16, 2024
Highlights from our upcoming Spring Release below
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Visual updates (Model 3/Y with AMD chip)
– Immersive full-screen vehicle controls when parked
– Large playback controls & quick access to Recents, Favorites & Up Next in media player… pic.twitter.com/bwL53UhVUB
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