Tesla rolled out a brand new over-the-air (OTA) software update this Independence Day weekend. The firmware version of this OTA update is 2023.26.
A distinguished characteristic of Tesla vehicles is the ability to get new fun and useful features from time to time. And the automaker does not fall short of new ideas to woo its customers.
Tesla added a number of new features and improved the existing ones in version 2023.26 (Release Notes below).
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Automatic Headlights
Automatic Headlights linked with windshield wipers has been re-introduced. This feature was first introduced a couple of years ago but Tesla decided to strip it off for unknown reasons.
Automatic Headlights with windshield wipers re-added in Tesla update 2023.26. Image credit: Not A Tesla App.
Your lights turn on automatically when windshield wipers are activated and headlights are set to Auto in Controls > Lights > Headlights.
Tesla 2023.26 Release Notes
During a conversation with our Tesla Community members on Twitter, we came to know that it’s a legal requirement in some European countries to have the headlights turned on while the wipers are functioning. This might have been implemented to make the vehicles more visible during rain and extreme fog.
Finally Tesla complies with the law regarding lights being turned on when wipers are on 😮💨https://t.co/q351GVG2A4
Now with this new feature, when a Tesla vehicle is approaching a set destination and its closing time is near, the navigation maps will show it ‘red’ color to notify the driver.
Destination Closing Soon feature added to Tesla navigation maps in OTA update version 2023.26.
Tesla 2023.26 Release Notes
Bluetooth Game Controllers
Tesla introduces Bluetooth Game Controllers in OTA update version 2023.26.
Use Bluetooth controllers to play games in Arcade.
To pair a controller, open the Bluetooth panel and follow the instructions.
This feature works best with PS5 controllers. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for more information.
Tesla 2023.26 Release Notes
Camera View on Tesla App
Just last month, in OTA update version 2023.20.4.1, Tesla enabled its customers to view video feeds from all 9 Autopilot cameras on the center touchscreen.
Tesla has made this feature even more interesting. Now Tesla owners can take a look at these camera views remotely on their mobile phones in real-time using the Tesla App.
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Tesla software update v2023.26 release notes explain this feature as follows:
Tesla update v2023.26 enables Autopilot camera views on Tesla owner’s mobile phones using the Tesla App.
You can now see multiple cameras at once when checking your vehicle’s surroundings.
To start using this feature, go to your vehicle settings in Controls > Safety > View Live Camera via Mobile App.
This feature requires Mobile App v4.22.5 and Premium Connectivity.
Tesla 2023.26 Release Notes
Video Game: Vampire Survivors
Tesla Arcade keeps growing. Tesla owners can now play a new game Vampire Survivors. The in-car entertainment in a Tesla vehicle is next-level compared to any other car brand.
Tesla adds a new video game Vampire Survivors in update version 2023.26.
Defend yourself against an onslaught of night creatures to survive until dawn.
To play, shift to Park (P) and go to the App Launcher > Arcade > Vampire Survivors.
Tesla 2023.26 Release Notes
Charge on Solar
Tesla has taken a step further in sustainable energy transportation with the software update v2023.26. Now Tesla vehicles connected to a Tesla Powerwall can be charged with as much solar energy as possible.
This partially frees Tesla vehicles from relying on electricity coming from the grid. This negates the anti-Tesla sentiment that these vehicles are not truly zero-emission — now they’re very close to achieving this goal.
The Tesla update 2023.26 release notes explain this new feature as follows:
Tesla vehicles can now charge with solar energy using a Tesla Powerwall with the 2023.26 update. Image credit: TeslaScope.com.
Charge your Tesla with solar energy if you have a Powerwall. You can choose how much charging comes from solar versus other sources.
To set it up, open the Tesla app for your vehicle, tap the “Charge on Solar” message, and follow the instructions. Requires Powerwall v23.12.10 and Tesla app v4.22.5.
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There are more tiny bits of changes Tesla made in the 2023.26 update that you can explore on the Not A Tesla App website.
Iqtidar has been writing about Tesla, Elon Musk, and EVs for more than 3 years on XAutoWorld.com, many of his articles have been republished on CleanTechnica and InsideEVs, maintains a healthy relationship with the Tesla community across the Social Media sphere. You can reach him on Twitter @IqtidarAlii
