Tesla’s December Update Adds Apple Watch Support and Navigation Features
Tesla has announced its latest over-the-air software update, set to begin rolling out next week, bringing a substantial list of new features and improvements across its vehicle lineup.
One of the most awaited additions is Apple Watch support, allowing users to use their watch as a phone key, check battery status, open the front trunk, and control climate settings. The Tesla app is also getting enhanced video capabilities, enabling users to view and save Dashcam and Sentry Mode clips directly to their phones for editing and sharing.
For stalkless Model 3 owners, the update introduces improved Autoshift functionality, which can automatically switch between Drive and Reverse during parking maneuvers and multi-point turns. SiriusXM integration is now available for Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck owners.
— Tesla (@Tesla) December 2, 2024
Navigation features see major improvements with new options to:
- Set preferred battery charge levels for destinations
- Search along routes with estimated detour times
- View precipitation maps and weather conditions
- Find nearby parking at destinations
- Dynamic routing around road closures
Safety enhancements include a new Rear Cross Traffic Alert system that warns drivers of pedestrians or vehicles while reversing, complete with audible warnings for potential collisions.
Cybertruck-specific updates include:
- Custom wrap and license plate personalization options
- Enhanced rear camera display with zoom functionality
- Rear seat gaming capabilities
- Santa Mode transformation feature
- Energy App Consumption page
Entertainment additions feature:
- Improved TuneIn Radio experience
- New game: Boomerang Fu
- Light Show scheduling via the Tesla app
- The playful Fart On Contact feature
Other Major improvements include:
- New seat control panel for unoccupied seats
- Maintenance summary tracking
- Sentry Mode notifications for door handle pulls
- Traffic visualization for non-premium connectivity users
- Automatic volume reduction while reversing
- Supercharger stall status notifications
The update will be distributed gradually to Tesla vehicles beginning next week.