Tesla Finally Begins Development on Smartwatch App After Years of Requests

Tesla has long been a pioneer in blending technology and automotive innovation. Its mobile apps, which allow owners to interact with their vehicles, are integral to the Tesla experience. Yet, for years, one feature has remained absent: a smartwatch app.

Despite repeated requests from Tesla owners, the company has held back on developing an official smartwatch application. But recent developments suggest this is about to change.

Coding Hints at Smartwatch App

Tesla’s latest app update (Version 4.38.0) includes some telling signs. Coding experts from Tesla App Updates have found references that strongly indicate the automaker is working on a smartwatch app.

The code snippet in question, labeled watch_app_pairing_state_remotely_signing_add_key_command, points to pairing and remote features, hinting that Tesla is actively developing smartwatch functionality. This discovery is significant for Tesla enthusiasts, who have been waiting for such an integration for years.

Why Now? Timing and the Shift Toward Wearable Tech

Tesla has been selective about the platforms it supports. Until now, Tesla’s mobile app has been primarily focused on iOS and Android. iPhone users typically enjoy early access to new features, as Tesla has shown a preference for Apple’s ecosystem.

So, why introduce a smartwatch app now?

Wearables have grown in popularity, with smartwatches becoming common accessories for many consumers. Tesla’s hesitation to embrace this platform has puzzled many owners, especially since third-party developers have already created their own solutions.

In fact, in July, a software developer designed a concept for what the ideal Tesla app could look like on an Apple Watch. This concept helped demonstrate what an official Tesla smartwatch app might offer, such as remote start, climate control, and location tracking—directly from a user’s wrist.

It seems Tesla has decided it’s time to answer the demand.

Multi-Platform Support Could Be A Win for All Users

The most intriguing part of the recent coding discovery is that it doesn’t seem to limit the app to a specific smartwatch brand or platform. While Tesla has historically favored iOS, this new app might support a broader range of devices, including Garmin and Android smartwatches.

This is welcome news for Tesla owners who use various types of wearable tech. By opening up to multiple platforms, Tesla ensures that more of its user base can benefit from smartwatch functionality, rather than restricting it to Apple Watch users.

What to Expect from Tesla’s Smartwatch App

Though details are still scarce, there are several features that could potentially be included in Tesla’s smartwatch app:

• Vehicle Status Monitoring: Battery levels, charging status, and current location.
• Remote Functions: Start the car, unlock doors, or control the climate from the watch.
• Parking Assistance: Enhanced features like reverse auto summon and real-time parking updates.
• Notifications: Alerts for charging completion, updates on software installs, or security notifications.

These are just a few examples of what Tesla could offer through its smartwatch app. The coding hints at functionalities like pairing and remote command execution, making it reasonable to expect some combination of these features.

A Look Back At Third-Party Solutions

In the absence of an official app, third-party developers have stepped in to fill the gap. Apps like Watch App for Tesla and Remote for Tesla have allowed users to control their vehicles using wearables. These apps offer remote start, door locking, and other basic functions.

While useful, these third-party apps lack the deep integration that an official Tesla app could provide. With direct access to Tesla’s systems, an official app would likely offer a smoother user experience and more advanced features.

The Road Ahead

Tesla has always been a company that prioritizes innovation, sometimes to the frustration of its loyal customers. It’s taken years for a smartwatch app to reach development, but the wait might soon be over.

The recent coding hints suggest that Tesla’s smartwatch app could be in the final stages of development. When released, this app will likely change the way Tesla owners interact with their vehicles—adding convenience and control at the flick of a wrist.

The question now is: how will Tesla leverage this platform to enhance the ownership experience further?

With the growing demand for smart device integration, Tesla’s move toward smartwatch compatibility seems inevitable. Whether you’re an Apple Watch user, a Garmin fan, or prefer an Android-based wearable, the upcoming Tesla smartwatch app is set to be a game-changer.