- Update adds more Grok commands to Tesla models
- Navigation can now learn recurring stops and plan routes accordingly
- Improved parental controls have been added for the rear screen.
Tesla regularly releases major updates to its vehicles that combine a series of software updates that not only keep its fleet of vehicles bug-free and running smoothly, but also at the forefront of automotive technology.
For its summer update, Tesla has added a series of new Grok commands that allow its AI voice assistant to take care of more key vehicle functions, without drivers having to dig through on-screen menus.
When first introduced in Tesla models in 2025, Grok was simply an AI voice assistant that could answer generic questions; could not control the vehicle’s functions.
This has been slowly changing, with a spring update earlier this year adding a wake word and the ability for users to set reminders based on location.
Now, Grok can make or answer phone calls hands-free, skip tracks or change radio stations on the multimedia screen, and adjust the climate inside the vehicle.
Similarly, you can also open the glove box (something that traditionally involves navigating through an on-screen menu) with a voice command.
In addition to Grok’s major updates, Tesla has also added improved parental controls for the rear screen that is available for several models, allowing front-seat occupants to have full control over what’s playing in the rear or block it entirely.
Analysis: Grok updates make Tesla more competitive
Despite Elon Musk’s increased focus on artificial intelligence across much of his business empire, Tesla has been relatively slow to introduce advanced AI voice assistant functionality into its cars.
Numerous Chinese competitors have long offered intelligent voice assistants that can control key vehicle functions and even open windows, while companies such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen have been rolling out a combination of LLM-powered assistants and internally developed voice assistants that can address general queries as well as more specific vehicle-based requests.
However, Tesla has proven once again that it can improve its vehicles as they age, rather than reserving its newest features only for new customers; The Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck remain some of the best examples of software-defined vehicles on sale today.
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