One of Tesla’s latest software updates, FSD Beta 11.4.8.1, which is update 2023.27.12, includes code pointing to several new, unexpected features. According to our favorite Tesla hacker, Green, also known as @greentheonly on X, there will be new Waze-like features, new routing options and a driver “liveliness” system.
Speed Cam and Red Light Awareness
A key highlight of this update is the integration of speed camera and red light cam awareness, functionalities that seem to be inspired by popular navigation apps like Waze. Waze has provided real-time traffic updates, including alerts about speed cameras, traffic congestion, and road hazards. By integrating a similar system, Tesla keeps up with some of the most wanted navigation features. This new feature includes the ability to detect fixed and mobile speed and red light cameras.
The importance of this feature cannot be overstated. Speed and red light cameras are critical in regulating traffic and ensuring safety. However, they can also be a source of anxiety for drivers. Tesla's approach not only assists in compliance with traffic laws but also adds a layer of security and peace of mind.
Green has detected additional enhancements for Waze-like behavior before, such as automatically detecting road debris and alerting other Tesla drivers traveling on the same road.
New Map Routing Options
Tesla is also set to introduce several additional navigation features. One such feature is the "avoid construction on route" option, designed to enhance route efficiency and reduce unexpected delays. Another notable addition is the control over U-turns, allowing drivers to enable or disable U-turn maneuvers in routing options. One much-wanted routing option that owners have been asking for is the ability to use or disable highways. Unfortunately, and somewhat surprising, it doesn’t look like this option is included in this update.
Driver Monitoring Improvements
The update also includes an intriguing development in driver monitoring. The cabin camera now assesses "driver liveliness," a move to ensure the driver's attention is on the road. This feature appears to be aimed at owners who may have tried to trick the system by taping a static photo in front of the camera. It appears that the updated system will check whether the the driver is not only attentive, but also exhibits signs of a human driver.
Release Date
There is significant interest in the availability of these features outside North America, particularly in Europe and Asia. Green has indicated that while these features are currently not user-accessible in this update, its clear Tesla is continuing to develop them and they’ll likely be rolled out in a future update.
While the new routing options may become available worldwide, speed camera locations and red light camera awareness will likely depend on local laws and these features will only be released appropriate.
It’s possible that we’ll see these new features in Tesla’s upcoming holiday update later this month.
