With every major Tesla update, there are often smaller changes or features that aren't mentioned in the release notes.
While software update 2023.44.1 was a little light on changes as Tesla prepares for its big holiday update, it did include changes to Autopilot activation, which appears to have been a requirement from NHTSA, as well as other changes such as Destination Charging Availability and Speed Assist added to more regions.
However, several changes weren’t mentioned in the release notes, which we’ve unpacked below.
Radio Favorites
Your Tesla automatically scans and displays your local radio stations. Your favorited stations are now pinned to the top of the Stations tab in the Radio app, instead of being a separate tab. This makes it easier to flip through stations, whether they’re favorites or not.
You can also tilt your left scroll wheel left and right to go to the next or previous radio station.
Messages App
The Messages app, which is used to view or reply to recently exchanged text messages is now only accessible through the Messages app icon in the All Apps menu.
The Messages app was previously accessible through a tab on the Phone app.
Calendar App
Similar to the changes in the Messages app, the Calendar is no longer accessible through the Phone app and now needs to be brought up by either tapping the app icon or touching the time at the top of the display.
The Calendar app has also received some minor design changes.
All Apps Menu
The All Apps menu, which is accessible in the app icons along the bottom of the screen, now displays app icons centered on the screen, instead of being left-aligned.
Certain functions such as wipers, heated steering wheel and defrost icons are now also available while in drive.
Service Mode Improvements
Service Mode has been updated with various new panels and improvements.
The new panels include a new software section that lets you verify the software version installed and diagnose issues related to the infotainment center, Autopilot, and maps. There is a new section for 'High Voltage Interlock Loop,' as well as a new option in the Air Suspension panel that lets you inflate the air suspension reservoir.
Other changes include Chinese language support and a new feedback section for Service Mode Plus users.
Service Mode should only be accessed by technicians and owners who are familiar with it and aware of the risks involved. The vehicle should not be driven with Service Mode engaged, as various safety features are turned off.
This appears to be it as far as changes in update 2023.44, however, the holiday update is almost upon us and it is sure to be packed with features, as well as probably a few undocumented changes as well.
Last week, Tesla said that the holiday update would roll out this week, however, we wonder if the NHTSA-required changes will affect its release.
