Tesla spring update: new UI, Auto Shift Beta & more

Tesla has unveiled details regarding a forthcoming software update that introduces a suite of improvements to the in-car experience. The update features a refreshed user interface, designed to enhance usability and navigation. Additionally, a new feature called ‘Auto Shift Beta’ is included, hinting at Tesla’s continued development of automated driving functionalities.

Tesla has provided preliminary details regarding its forthcoming Spring software update. The update will introduce a refreshed user interface (UI) specifically designed for Model 3 and Model Y vehicles equipped with AMD chips (model year 2022 and onward).

The UI update incorporates several key visual enhancements:

• Immersive full-screen vehicle controls accessible when the vehicle is parked.
• Enlarged playback controls within the media player, along with simplified access to recently used media, favorites, and upcoming content.
• Expandable Autopilot driving visualizations, featuring a minimized trip guidance map positioned in the top right corner.

The Spring update also introduces a new feature named "Auto Shift Beta" for refreshed Model S and Model X vehicles (model year 2021 and onward). This functionality, currently in beta testing, automatically shifts the vehicle between Drive (D), Reverse (R), and Park (P) based on the surrounding environment. Users can access and configure this feature through "Vehicle settings > Pedals & Steering > Auto Shift (Beta)."

The inclusion of Auto Shift Beta aligns with Tesla's recent removal of the physical drive gear stalk from the steering wheel in Model S, Model X, and Model 3 vehicles.

Shifting gears with Auto Shift Beta

The introduction of Auto Shift Beta in refreshed Model S and Model X vehicles (model year 2021 and onward) reflects Tesla's prior removal of the physical drive gear stalk from the steering wheel. This functionality, currently in beta testing, leverages in-car sensors to automatically shift the vehicle between Drive (D), Reverse (R), and Park (P) based on the surrounding environment. User configuration options are accessible through "Vehicle settings > Pedals & Steering > Auto Shift (Beta)."

Enhanced entertainment options

The Spring update expands in-car entertainment options with the introduction of a native Audible app, offering seamless access to audiobooks from Amazon's service. Additionally, the existing native Spotify app receives an update, enabling features such as synchronized queues across Tesla vehicles and user devices, along with adjustable playback speed.

The Spring update introduces a new convenience feature named "Hands-Free Trunk" for Model S and Model X vehicles (model year 2021 and onward), along with the upgraded Model 3. This functionality leverages a phone key to automatically open the trunk when a user approaches the rear of the vehicle while stationary.