Tesla 2023 Holiday Software Update: Features Overview

2023 holiday software update

Tesla started rolling out its 2023 holiday software update to employees late Tuesday, and one day later some early release notes have leaked.

According to screenshots shared by @Teslascope, we have a short preview of new features available in this 2023 holiday update, which includes Apple Podcasts, Tesla Arcade updates, a new automatic blind spot camera feature, and more.

Check out the new features we know about the 2023.44.25 holiday software update below:

Apple Podcasts Integration

  • Access to a wide range of popular podcasts.
  • Seamless synchronization with Apple devices.
  • Ability to follow shows, save episodes, and resume playback.
  • Browse new and noteworthy podcasts or explore trending ones on Top Charts.
  • Access via Application Launcher, requiring a scan of the QR code and Apple ID login.
  • Premium Connectivity is necessary for this feature.

Tesla Arcade Updates

  • Beach Buggy Racing: Unlock new vehicles and tracks, with vehicle color matching the user’s preference in Toybox > Colorizer.
  • Polytopia Diplomacy Update: New options for both peaceful and hostile interactions, including peace treaties, embassies, stealth infiltration, and guerrilla warfare.
  • Vampire Survivors Chilling Update: A winter-themed Whiteout map, new character, achievements, and items.
  • Compatibility with PS4, PS5, and Xbox Controllers, including rumble effects in selected games.
  • Controller pairing via the Bluetooth panel.
  • Availability varies by model and location.

Safety Features

  • Automatic 911 Calls: The vehicle automatically calls 911 if airbags are triggered, with a countdown timer for cancellation. This feature requires a mobile phone connected via Bluetooth.
  • Automatic Blind Spot Camera: Alerts with red shading when an object is detected in the blind spot during signaling. Accessible via Controls > Autopilot.

Navigation and Trip Planning

  • Navigation now displays symbols for speed cameras, stop signs, and traffic lights, requiring Online Routing and Premium Connectivity.
  • Trip Planner on the Tesla mobile app allows for planning trips with multiple stops and includes charging stops. Requires Tesla app version 4.27.5+.

Camera and Viewing Enhancements

  • Access to left and right pillar cameras in the Live Camera View via the Tesla app.
  • Live Camera feature is end-to-end encrypted.
  • Requires Tesla app version 4.27.5+ and Premium Connectivity.

Entertainment and Customization

  • Light Show: New show set to “The Arrival” by Irving Victoria, with options for immediate play or scheduling up to 10 minutes in advance. Multiple vehicle synchronization is possible.
  • Ability to play multiple custom Light Shows from a USB flash drive.
  • Shuffle Play in TIDAL for playlists and albums.
  • Display of Apple and Spotify account profile images, indicating the active account. Availability varies by model and location.

Search and Information Access

  • Enhanced search function in Controls > Search, including links to entries in the Owner’s Manual and vehicle settings.
  • Charging Location Filters in the vehicle map, allowing filtering between two charging speeds (more than 70 kW and 70 kW or less).

According to sources @Teslascope has been speaking with, “apparently there’s more coming” to this year’s holiday update, so stay tuned.