Photo: Not a Tesla App
Tesla software is praised as one of its EVs' best features, constantly improving with over-the-air updates. In the past month, Tesla has been on a roll with new features, and the 2024.2.6 software version takes this even further. The update brings crucial Supercharging improvements and better range estimations that take into account the battery's age.
One of the greatest perks of owning a Tesla is the constant improvements the EV maker brings to its fleet via software updates. The EV maker has pioneered the concept of over-the-air updates, which it borrowed from mobile phones and computers. It still leads the way in this regard, with other automakers reluctantly following in its footsteps. Tesla also uses this feature to squash bugs and fix issues without getting the vehicles to a service center.
Software updates allow Tesla to fix many issues that lead to a physical recall in the case of traditional carmakers. Most recently, Tesla solved a problem with the warning light text readability via the 2024.2.2.1 software update as part of a voluntary software recall. The fact that Tesla can provide this kind of service made Tesla owners angry about the NHTSA's use of the term recall for software updates.
The first build of the year arrived on January 18 as the 2024.2 update, and the subsequent point updates brought not only bug fixes but also new features. The most important was unlocking adaptive headlights in Europe, starting with the refreshed Model 3. Tesla also intends to bring this feature to the rest of the model lineup. Customers in the US will have to wait a little longer to get it, as local regulations are different from the ones in Europe. Tesla will have to change its matrix-LED headlights to get the OK from the US regulators.
Starting with the 2024.2.3 update, compatible Tesla EVs support the iPhone's Ultra-Wideband (UWB) chip, improving the Phone Key feature. Hopefully, Tesla will also enable this feature for Android users since several phone manufacturers already offer the UWB hardware. Considering all these new features launched in less than a month, you'd think Tesla would rest for a while, but it didn't.
Earlier this week, Tesla started rolling out the 2024.2.6 update, significantly improving the Supercharging experience and range estimates. The infotainment system now shows how long it takes until the fast charging starts in case the battery has not warmed up enough. Also, when heading to a Supercharger station in cold weather, Tesla will begin warming the charge port inlet in addition to the battery. This works as long as you put the Supercharger station as the destination in the navigation system.
Another meaningful update improves the range reporting by taking the battery's age into consideration. This is one of the critical factors affecting range, so planning for it makes this update important. While this will make the range displayed appear lower, it's also more accurate and in line with the battery's state of health. As usual, when digging in the Energy app, you get a more precise range estimation, which also considers driving history, outside temperature, and wind direction, among others.
Software updates allow Tesla to fix many issues that lead to a physical recall in the case of traditional carmakers. Most recently, Tesla solved a problem with the warning light text readability via the 2024.2.2.1 software update as part of a voluntary software recall. The fact that Tesla can provide this kind of service made Tesla owners angry about the NHTSA's use of the term recall for software updates.
The first build of the year arrived on January 18 as the 2024.2 update, and the subsequent point updates brought not only bug fixes but also new features. The most important was unlocking adaptive headlights in Europe, starting with the refreshed Model 3. Tesla also intends to bring this feature to the rest of the model lineup. Customers in the US will have to wait a little longer to get it, as local regulations are different from the ones in Europe. Tesla will have to change its matrix-LED headlights to get the OK from the US regulators.
Starting with the 2024.2.3 update, compatible Tesla EVs support the iPhone's Ultra-Wideband (UWB) chip, improving the Phone Key feature. Hopefully, Tesla will also enable this feature for Android users since several phone manufacturers already offer the UWB hardware. Considering all these new features launched in less than a month, you'd think Tesla would rest for a while, but it didn't.
Earlier this week, Tesla started rolling out the 2024.2.6 update, significantly improving the Supercharging experience and range estimates. The infotainment system now shows how long it takes until the fast charging starts in case the battery has not warmed up enough. Also, when heading to a Supercharger station in cold weather, Tesla will begin warming the charge port inlet in addition to the battery. This works as long as you put the Supercharger station as the destination in the navigation system.
Another meaningful update improves the range reporting by taking the battery's age into consideration. This is one of the critical factors affecting range, so planning for it makes this update important. While this will make the range displayed appear lower, it's also more accurate and in line with the battery's state of health. As usual, when digging in the Energy app, you get a more precise range estimation, which also considers driving history, outside temperature, and wind direction, among others.
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