- Update adds more Grok controls to Tesla models
- Navigation can now learn recurring stops and plan routes accordingly
- Improved parental controls for the rear screen have been added
Tesla regularly releases major updates for its vehicles that bundle a host of software upgrades that not only keep its fleet of vehicles bug-free and running smoothly, but also on the cutting edge of in-car technology.
For its summer update, Tesla added a series of new Grok commands that allow its AI voice assistant to take over more key vehicle functions, without drivers needing to search through on-screen menus.
When first introduced in Tesla models in 2025, Grok was only an AI voice assistant capable of answering generic questions – it was not capable of controlling the vehicle’s features.
This has slowly changed, 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 control inside the vehicle.
Likewise, it’s also capable of opening the glovebox – which traditionally involves navigating an on-screen menu – with a voice command.
In addition to the major Grok updates, Tesla has also added improved parental controls for the rear display, available on a number of models, allowing front seat occupants to have full control over what’s playing in the back, or lock it completely.
Analysis: Grok updates make Tesla more competitive
Despite Elon Musk’s broader interest in artificial intelligence across much of his business empire, Tesla has been relatively slow to introduce advanced AI voice assistant functionality into its cars.
Many Chinese competitors have long offered intelligent voice assistants that can control key vehicle functions and even open windows, while companies like BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen have deployed a mix of LLM-based assistants and in-house developed voice assistants that can handle general queries as well as more specific vehicle-related requests.
However, Tesla has once again demonstrated that it can improve its vehicles as they age, rather than reserving its coolest new features only for new customers; The Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck remain among the best examples of software-defined vehicles on sale today.
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