Tesla has announced that starting next week, owners will receive a New Year’s update featuring several exciting new features. The highlight of the update is the addition of a digital key for the Apple Watch. This marks the first time Tesla has added support for its app on the Apple Watch, allowing users to access the car’s digital key directly from the watch.
With this feature, users can leave their smartphone at home while running errands, open the trunk, or activate the car’s air conditioning remotely—all using only their Apple Watch. Tesla has not yet clarified whether these features will also be available on its Android app.
Another new feature being introduced is remote access to Sentry Mode recordings. This will allow users to view footage from the dashboard camera and Sentry Mode directly from their smartphone and save specific clips. This makes it easier to share accident footage with insurance companies or law enforcement when needed.
Additionally, the update will include new safety alerts, such as a rear cross-traffic warning that notifies drivers of approaching cars or pedestrians while reversing. Music volume will also automatically lower while driving in reverse, a feature that has been available in vehicles from other manufacturers for some time. However, the fact that a smartphone is required to enable this feature raises questions about its convenience and safety.
Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck is also receiving special updates in time for the holiday season. These include a “Santa Mode” that transforms the electric truck into a cyber sleigh, with a Tesla Bot playing Santa Claus. Drivers will also be able to add custom wraps and personalized license plates to their digital Cybertruck.
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Other updates in the release include:
- The ability to set energy levels for battery charge upon destination arrival, allowing users to specify how much energy they want remaining in the battery at the end of a trip.
- Search functionality for stops along a route, including estimated detour times and weather information at the destination.
- Improvements to the TuneIn radio app.
- Vehicle maintenance summaries.
- Door handle pull alerts.
- A new party game called "Boomerang Fu".
- And even the infamous "fart app," which can now be activated when someone sits on a seat.