Tesla Software Update 2025.26 Brings Grok AI to Cars, But With Limited Features for Now

Tesla has started rolling out its latest over-the-air software update, version 2025.26, and the headline feature is the long-anticipated Grok AI integration. While the inclusion of a conversational chatbot in your car may sound futuristic, Grok’s current capabilities are more limited than expected.

Grok AI (Beta): A Glimpse into the Future

For now, Grok (Beta) acts more like a search engine built into your Tesla’s center screen than a true in-car assistant. According to Tesla’s official release notes, Grok does not control any vehicle functions. This means it can’t adjust your climate, change music, or set navigation—at least not yet.

Instead, it's positioned as a chatbot-style experience, giving drivers access to AI-powered responses and information without picking up their phones. The beta feature is available only to U.S. Tesla owners with the AMD infotainment system (standard since mid-2021) and requires either a Premium Connectivity subscription or a Wi-Fi connection.

What Else Is New in Tesla Software Update 2025.26?

While Grok grabs the headlines, the 2025.26 update brings several practical enhancements that improve daily driving and user experience:

Ambient Lighting Sync: Tesla vehicles with ambient lights can now sync lighting effects with music, either pulsing to the beat or matching the album art colors.

Audio Presets: Drivers can now save custom audio settings for different listeners or driving conditions.

Improved Dashcam Viewer: New zoom and playback speed controls make reviewing footage easier. Cybertruck users also get a new grid-style clip view.

Smarter Charging Navigation: The system now flags charging stations that require valet access or are inside paid parking zones. It also provides extra info at arrival, including restroom availability, parking levels, and access codes.

Onboarding Guide: New to Tesla? The update adds an on-screen tutorial to help first-time drivers, renters, or valets learn the basics.

Corporate Drama: Tesla to Vote on Investment in xAI

Outside the software update, Elon Musk continues to blur the lines between his companies. Tesla shareholders are preparing to vote on a controversial proposal: whether Tesla should invest directly in xAI, Musk’s private artificial intelligence venture.

This comes after Musk rerouted NVIDIA AI chips from Tesla to xAI, and shifted top AI talent from the carmaker to his newer firm. Critics argue that these moves raise concerns about conflicts of interest and corporate governance.

The shareholder vote is scheduled for Tesla's delayed annual meeting in November 2025, and it may redefine the relationship between the EV giant and Musk's growing AI empire.