Tesla continues to refine the user experience for its car owners, and the latest mobile app update makes it easier for iPhone users to access essential vehicle controls directly from their devices. With the release of mobile app version 4.38.0 on iOS this week, Tesla is giving owners the ability to add key car commands to their iPhone’s Control Center, making vehicle interaction even more convenient.
Starting with this update, iPhone users will be able to access controls like lock, climate control, charging port access, honk, and even the playful “fart” feature, all through the swipe-up menu on their devices. Additionally, more advanced controls such as headlight flash, and the ability to open or close the frunk or trunk, can be operated via the same menu. However, this functionality is available exclusively for iPhone users running iOS 18 or later.
Screenshots shared by the Not a Tesla App community showcase how these new car commands look in the Control Center, offering a glimpse of the enhanced ease of access for Tesla owners using iPhones.
Energy Management Made Easier
Alongside the new car controls, Tesla’s latest mobile app update also includes an improved Energy Power Meter feature. This is particularly beneficial for users managing Tesla’s Powerwall or Powershare systems. With this feature, owners can monitor their system’s power limits more effectively, helping avoid overloads during off-grid usage or outages.
As highlighted by Tesla mobile app engineer Alex Guichet on X, the metering tool allows users to easily see how many backup hours their energy system has left, while offering best practices for managing energy during critical times. This addition is aimed at providing a smoother energy management experience for users with smaller systems.
Regular App Updates Enhance the Tesla Experience
Tesla is known for frequently updating its mobile app, adding useful features or fine-tuning existing ones. In recent months, the app has seen several upgrades, such as the introduction of home energy demos and improved destination filtering options for easier navigation. The summer update also hinted at a future Autopark feature, allowing drivers to manage parking more efficiently via the app.
Tesla’s commitment to a software-first approach is one of the reasons the company’s app experience stands out in the industry. In May 2024, J.D. Power ranked Tesla’s mobile app the best among original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), citing the app’s ease of use and its comprehensive range of features for owners.
Tesla’s mobile app has been central to the ownership experience since the early days of the Model S and Model X, and as Tesla continues to expand its technology ecosystem, iPhone users can expect more innovations that make interacting with their vehicles even easier.
