Tesla updates FSD app with usage stats and simplified subscriptions

Tesla is releasing a redesigned self-driving application that simplifies the subscription process for its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software. While Tesla owners previously had to navigate multiple steps on the vehicle’s touchscreen or mobile application to subscribe, the updated interface allows users to subscribe in a single tap. The company teased the redesigned application, alongside other features included in its next major software update, in a post on X. The updated application introduces gamified elements to track how often drivers use the system. These features include multi-day streaks that show how many consecutive days the software was active, alongside bar charts that display FSD usage statistics. Currently, FSD subscribers are only shown their total miles driven compared to the percentage of miles driven using the software.

These updated application features are restricted to vehicles equipped with the A14 chip, also known as FSD Hardware 4.0. Tesla first began shipping vehicles equipped with this hardware in January 2023. For owners of compatible vehicles, the monthly subscription cost for the driver assistance software remains $99. The software, which originally launched in beta in late 2020, has received regular updates to address bugs and improve overall reliability and performance. The system is capable of handling specific driving maneuvers, including steering, lane changes, and parking.

The effort to drive adoption of the software is closely linked to the company’s long-term financial and strategic targets. Tesla CEO Elon Musk is attempting to position the company as an artificial intelligence and robotics powerhouse rather than just an automaker, with FSD serving as a core part of that mission. Musk has set a goal of reaching 10 million active FSD subscriptions by 2035, a key product goal required for him to receive the full payout of his $1 trillion pay package. On April 10, RDW, the Dutch vehicle regulatory authority, approved the use of FSD after conducting research and testing on the product.

The software is currently available to drivers in Australia, Canada, China, Mexico, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and the United States. However, despite the capabilities of the system, safety guidelines remain unchanged. It still requires active driver supervision, which means vehicles equipped with the software are not truly autonomous.

Why it matters

The app redesign serves as a tactical effort to accelerate FSD adoption, which is central to Elon Musk’s long-term compensation targets. It also supports Tesla’s broader strategic transition toward an artificial intelligence and robotics-focused business model.