Tesla’s Robotaxi App Just Got a Major Update: Here is Everything New

Image: Tesla

Tesla has released a substantial update to its Robotaxi app, introducing several quality-of-life improvements and essential safety information for riders using its autonomous fleet.

The most visible change is the move to a darker aesthetic, with a new dark mode that provides a more modern and streamlined user interface. Beyond the visual tweaks, Tesla has added more transparency regarding ride costs by introducing pricing discounts and promotions directly within the app, similar to traditional ride-hailing services.

New Rider Safety and Boarding Tips

A dedicated “Tips” section has been added to guide passengers through the autonomous experience. Key updates in this section include:

• Vehicle Identification: The app now informs riders that the vehicle’s lights will pulse upon arrival, serving as a visual cue to confirm the car is ready for boarding.
• Seating Capacity: Riders can now see exactly how many seats are available in the assigned vehicle (typically up to four) before it arrives.
• Wait Times: Tesla has clarified its pickup window, stating that a Robotaxi will wait for up to 7 minutes before the vehicle automatically leaves to its next destination.

Enhanced Privacy and Cabin Monitoring

The update also includes a new notice regarding the use of interior cabin cameras. Tesla states that it may use these cameras to ensure the safety of passengers during the ride. This monitoring is also used to verify the vehicle’s readiness for the next trip, such as checking for lost items or ensuring the cabin is clean after a ride ends.

Additionally, the app explicitly instructs passengers not to sit in the driver’s seat and to wait for the light pulse before attempting to enter the vehicle. These changes come as Tesla continues to scale its unsupervised ride-hailing efforts across select markets, focusing on a smoother and more professional user experience.

Now, these updates apply to the iOS version of the Robotaxi app. An Android version is not available yet, but it’s in the works.