Tesla continues to redefine the driving experience by rolling out its much-anticipated 2025 Holiday Update, packed with an array of exciting features designed to enhance functionality and fun for its users. With a commitment to innovation, Tesla is not just unveiling new functionalities but is also transforming the way owners interact with their vehicles.
This update is a testament to Tesla’s ongoing evolution, blending technology with user experience in ways that set it apart from traditional automotive brands. Below, we delve into the key features of this latest update, exploring their potential impact on Tesla ownership.
Overview of New Features in the 2025 Holiday Update
The 2025 Holiday Update brings a plethora of new features that cater to various aspects of the driving experience. From enhanced navigation options to playful entertainment features, Tesla aims to enrich the user experience significantly. Here’s a closer look at what has been included:
Grok with Navigation Commands (Beta)
One of the standout features is the enhanced Grok system, which now allows users to add and edit navigation destinations effortlessly. This marks a significant leap from the previous reliance on standard voice commands, streamlining the way drivers interact with navigation.
The Grok system is expected to offer more than just navigation; it will provide insights into destinations, including nearby reviews and points of interest, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Tesla Photobooth
Imagine transforming your car into a photo studio! The new Tesla Photobooth feature allows users to take selfies from inside their vehicles, complete with fun filters, stickers, and emojis. This feature encourages creativity and can be shared directly via the Tesla app.
Dog Mode Live Activity
Pet owners will appreciate the Dog Mode Live Activity feature, which enables drivers to monitor their pets while they remain safely inside the vehicle. Users will receive periodic snapshots of the cabin along with updates on temperature, battery status, and climate conditions, ensuring peace of mind for pet lovers.
Dashcam Viewer Update
The Dashcam Viewer Update enhances the security features of Tesla by providing additional information on recorded clips. Each Dashcam video will now include crucial data such as speed, steering wheel angle, and Self-Driving state, which can be invaluable in the event of an accident.
Seasonal and Fun Features
Among the lighter updates, the Santa Mode introduces festive graphics and sounds, while the Light Show Update features a new performance named Jingle Rush, adding a layer of holiday cheer to the driving experience.
Personalization with Paint Shop
The Colorizer feature has been revamped and is now known as the “Paint Shop.” This allows Tesla owners to personalize their vehicle avatars with unique designs, window tints, and custom wraps. Preloaded designs will be available, but users can also upload their own creations via USB flash drives, making their Tesla truly one-of-a-kind.
Enhanced Navigation Capabilities
Navigation has also seen substantial improvements. The introduction of a “Favorites” tab makes it easier to reorder destinations. Additionally, users can set their Home and Work locations simply by dropping a pin, while “Suggested Destinations” will be tailored based on recent trips.
Supercharger Site Map
Arguably the most significant addition is the Supercharger Site Map, offering a 3D view of select Supercharger stations. This feature provides details such as site layout, live occupancy, and nearby amenities, allowing drivers to select their preferred charging stall. Although currently limited to a few locations, this feature is expected to expand as more Superchargers are equipped with it.
Automatic Carpool Lane Routing
For those commuting in urban areas, the new Automatic Carpool Lane Routing feature will optimize routes by automatically selecting carpool lanes when available, potentially reducing travel time during peak hours.
Phone Left Behind Chime
To enhance safety, Tesla now includes a Phone Left Behind Chime. This feature alerts drivers if a phone is left inside the vehicle or if no occupants are detected when the doors close, ensuring that important personal items are not forgotten.
Charge Limit Per Location
The update also introduces the ability to set a charge limit for specific locations, which will be automatically applied in future charging sessions at those sites, promoting battery longevity and efficiency.
ISS Docking Simulator Game
In a collaboration with SpaceX, Tesla has added a new game to its in-car Arcade: the ISS Docking Simulator. Users can experience the thrill of being an astronaut, guiding a rocket to dock with the International Space Station using controls similar to those used by NASA astronauts.
Additional Enhancements
- Control wireless phone charging pads through the settings.
- Add Spotify tracks directly to the queue from the search screen.
- Experience dynamic lighting that syncs with music during Rave Cave mode.
- Utilize new sounds from popular culture, like Light Cycle from Tron Mode.
Features Anticipated But Missing
While the update is extensive, several features that were highly anticipated did not make it this time. Here are some of the notable exclusions:
Banish Feature
The Banish functionality, teased for years, is still not ready for release. This feature would allow drivers to exit the vehicle, prompting it to autonomously find a parking spot, akin to a “Reverse Summon.”
Apple CarPlay Integration
Despite speculation regarding Apple CarPlay integration, it was absent in this update. While many anticipated its inclusion, Tesla’s proprietary UI continues to be preferred by users due to its seamless functionality.
Parking Spot Selection
Another highly requested feature is the ability to select a specific parking spot. Currently, this option is unavailable, particularly frustrating for Tesla owners in shared living environments. However, Tesla has hinted at future capabilities to include this feature based on updates for Full Self-Driving.
Conclusion
The 2025 Holiday Update showcases Tesla’s dedication to enhancing the user experience through innovative features that blend practicality with enjoyment. As Tesla continues to develop its technology, owners can look forward to a driving experience that is not only safer and more efficient but also engaging and fun.