Tesla is bringing a host of exciting features to its Holiday Update this year, including Apple Watch compatibility with a digital phone key, the ability to view Sentry Mode security footage directly from your phone, a reverse cross-traffic alert for added safety, a fun “Santa Mode” for the Cybertruck, and much more.
The update, set to roll out next week, introduces native Apple Watch support to the Tesla app, enabling users to access their cars using the watch as a digital key. This feature allows Tesla owners to leave their smartphones behind for quick errands or unplanned trips outdoors.
Now, you can pop the trunk or frunk (front trunk), check charge levels, and remotely warm up your car—all from your wrist. While third-party apps like “Watch for Tesla” previously offered similar functionality, Tesla’s official solution now surpasses them, effectively “Sherlocking” the competition.
Remote Access to Sentry and Dashcam Footage
Another major addition is the ability to view Dashcam and Sentry Mode recordings directly on your phone. Users can save clips to their devices, making it easier to share critical footage with insurance providers or law enforcement after an incident.
Holiday Fun: Light Shows, Santa Mode, and More
In keeping with tradition, Tesla’s light show returns, syncing vehicle lights and sounds for a synchronized spectacle across multiple cars. This year’s update adds two new light shows and a whimsical Santa Mode for Cybertrucks.
Santa Mode transforms the vehicle’s 3D model on the screen into a Tesla Bot riding a cyber sleigh pulled by reindeer. Additionally, users can customize their on-screen Cybertruck with wraps and vanity plates. Cybertruck owners will also enjoy new Arcade games on the rear seat screen and an upgraded rear camera feed with pinch-to-zoom functionality.
Reverse Cross-Traffic Alert and Other Safety Enhancements
Tesla is addressing safety with the addition of a rear cross-traffic alert. This feature provides an audible warning and a red bar on the rearview camera feed when detecting vehicles or pedestrians approaching from behind while in reverse. Music volume automatically reduces when reversing, a convenience already common in many vehicles.
Tesla is also extending the Model S and X auto-shift feature to stalk-free Model 3 vehicles, which predicts whether you intend to shift to drive or reverse. While this design decision was initially a controversial cost-cutting measure, its expansion reflects Tesla’s commitment to refining customer experiences.
Improved Navigation and Energy Management
A new feature allows users to set a target “arrival energy at destination,” ensuring enough charge remains at the end of a trip—ideal for scenarios where charging isn’t immediately available. The update also includes the ability to search for destinations along a route with detour time estimates and adds weather and precipitation data to the navigation map.
Entertainment, Comfort, and Miscellaneous Updates
The update brings a new Sirius XM app for Model 3, Y, and Cybertruck, enhancements to the TuneIn app, and a party game called Boomerang Fu. For convenience, drivers can now adjust unoccupied passenger seats via the touchscreen, view in-vehicle maintenance summaries, and receive notifications for unlatched door handles.
In a lighter addition, Tesla’s infamous “fart app” can now activate automatically when someone sits on a seat. Whoopee indeed!
A Robust Package of Updates
This year’s Holiday Update combines practical safety improvements, enhanced convenience features, and playful additions, underscoring Tesla’s unique approach to merging technology with fun. Whether you’re focused on improved functionality or enjoying some lighthearted updates, this rollout has something for everyone.
