Tesla continues to innovate and expand its offerings, recently announcing a series of exciting features set to debut with the 2025 Holiday Update. This update promises to enhance both functionality and enjoyment for Tesla owners, reflecting the company’s commitment to integrating technology into everyday driving experiences.
While the list of new features is extensive, several additions stand out as particularly noteworthy. Here’s a closer look at what Tesla has in store for its users this holiday season.
Key Features of the 2025 Holiday Update
The 2025 Holiday Update introduces a variety of features designed to improve user experience and add entertainment options to Tesla vehicles. The enhancements range from practical navigation tools to fun, engaging applications that make every drive more enjoyable.
Grok with Navigation Commands (Beta)
One of the most significant improvements is the introduction of Grok’s expanded capabilities. Now, drivers can utilize this feature to add and edit navigation destinations seamlessly. This enhancement marks a shift from the previous reliance on standard voice commands, allowing for a more intuitive interaction with the vehicle.
Grok’s new functionality will also provide insights into destinations, including user reviews and nearby points of interest, enriching the driving experience with contextual information.
Tesla Photobooth
For those who enjoy capturing memories on the go, the new Tesla Photobooth feature allows users to take selfies directly from the interior of their vehicle. This feature comes with a variety of fun filters, stickers, and emojis, making it easy to share playful moments via the Tesla app.
Dog Mode Live Activity
Tesla has taken pet safety and comfort to the next level with the Dog Mode Live Activity feature. Now, while keeping your furry friend comfortable in the car, you can receive live updates that include periodic snapshots of the cabin’s interior along with temperature, battery, and climate conditions. This ensures peace of mind while you’re away from your pet.
Dashcam Viewer Update
The Dashcam functionality has received a significant upgrade. Previously, dashcam clips offered limited information, but the new update includes crucial data such as speed, steering wheel angle, and the current state of the vehicle’s self-driving capabilities. This added information can be invaluable in case of incidents on the road.
Exciting Seasonal Features
In the spirit of the holidays, Tesla is rolling out a variety of festive features:
- Santa Mode: New graphics, holiday-themed trees, and a playful lock chime are included for a festive driving experience.
- Light Show Update: A new light display called Jingle Rush will bring an exhilarating visual experience to Tesla owners.
Customization and Navigation Enhancements
The 2025 update also brings several improvements to customization and navigation, allowing drivers to tailor their Tesla experience more than ever before.
Custom Wraps and License Plates in Colorizer
Previously known as Colorizer, this feature has been rebranded as the “Paint Shop.” Owners can now customize their Tesla avatars with window tints, wraps, and personalized license plates. The feature comes with preloaded designs, but users can also upload their creations using USB flash drives, adding a personal touch to their vehicles.
Navigation Improvements
Enhancements to navigation features include:
- A new “Favorites” tab for easier destination prioritization.
- Pin-dropping functionality for setting Home and Work locations.
- “Suggested Destinations” based on recent trips and parking habits.
Supercharger Site Map
Arguably one of the most impactful features of this update is the introduction of a 3D view of select Tesla Supercharger locations. By tapping “View Site Map,” drivers can visualize the site layout, see live occupancy, and discover nearby amenities. This feature is currently available at select locations but is expected to expand soon.
Automatic Carpool Lane Routing
The navigation system will now automatically utilize carpool lanes when eligible, optimizing travel times and enhancing route efficiency.
Safety Features and User Alerts
Tesla is also focusing on safety with new alerts and features aimed at enhancing driver awareness and vehicle security.
Phone Left Behind Chime
To minimize the risk of leaving essential devices behind, the in-car occupant detection system will now trigger a chime if it detects no one inside the car and a phone key is present. This feature serves as a helpful reminder to ensure all valuables are taken when leaving the car.
Charge Limit Per Location
Another practical enhancement is the ability to save a charge limit for specific locations. This feature will automatically apply the charge limit the next time the vehicle is parked at that location, helping drivers manage their charging needs more efficiently.
Entertainment Features: ISS Docking Simulator
In partnership with SpaceX, Tesla has introduced the ISS Docking Simulator, a fun and educational game that allows users to experience the challenges of docking with the International Space Station. This interactive feature adds an exciting element to Tesla’s in-car arcade.
Additional Enhancements and Improvements
The Holiday Update is not just about flashy new features; it also brings numerous subtle improvements that enhance the overall user experience:
- Enable or disable wireless phone charging pads through simple control settings.
- Effortlessly add Spotify tracks to your queue from the search screen.
- Enhance the mood with rainbow colors during Rave Cave, where accent lights sync with music beats.
- New lock sounds, including a “Light Cycle” mode inspired by Tron, add a unique touch to the locking experience.
What Features Were Anticipated but Missing?
Despite the extensive list of new features, some anticipated functionalities were notably absent from the Holiday Update.
Banish Feature
The long-awaited Banish feature, which would allow drivers to exit their vehicle and have it park itself remotely, remains unavailable. This functionality has been teased for years, but it appears further development is needed before its release.
Apple CarPlay
Despite speculation about the integration of Apple CarPlay into Tesla vehicles, it did not debut with this update. While many owners had hoped for this addition, Tesla’s in-car UI continues to demonstrate significant superiority over traditional systems.
Parking Spot Selection
Another feature that has garnered user feedback is the lack of parking spot selection in the new Full Self-Driving capabilities. This attribute is particularly important for Tesla owners living in areas with assigned parking, and Tesla has indicated that improvements are forthcoming in future updates.