Tesla Will Launch Automation App for Vehicles
The upcoming software feature allows you to build custom routines directly from your vehicle screen.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Tesla is set to release an Automation app for vehicles in North America and Europe in December 2026. Expected to arrive via the company's annual Holiday Update, the feature will allow owners to create custom routines for their cars.
Why it matters
This update introduces IFTTT-style custom functionality to vehicle management, allowing owners to automate specific tasks. It brings the software capabilities previously tested in China to a wider international user base.
The feature debuted in China in January 2026 as part of version 2025.45 32.1 and is now slated for North American and European release. This deployment will bring the software's existing, polished code out from behind a restricted feature flag.
The players
Tesla
An electric vehicle manufacturer known for integrating over-the-air software updates to expand vehicle capabilities.
The details
The Automation app allows users to create custom routines by selecting a combination of actions, triggers, and conditions from a pre-defined list. For safety, these routines require the vehicle screen to be active and cannot execute while Autopilot or Tesla Assisted Driving systems are engaged. Developers confirmed the software is fully functional and currently hidden in vehicle code, waiting to be enabled for the public via an over-the-air update.
Timeline
January 2026: Tesla introduced the Automation app in the China market.
December 2026: The feature is expected to arrive via the Holiday Update.
The Home Front
Tesla is following a trend of applying mobile-style automation logic to the automotive cabin, similar to the IFTTT automation platform. This integration marks a shift in vehicle software from static infotainment systems to programmable environments.
Keep an eye on your vehicle's display for the Holiday Update notification in December 2026 to access the new Automation app. Once installed, explore the routine builder to see which triggers and actions are available for your specific vehicle configuration.
The takeaway
This update offers a new way to customize your driving experience through automated routine creation. Watch for the December 2026 update and familiarize yourself with the limitations, specifically that routines will not function while your driver-assistance systems are active.
What happens next
Tesla is expected to officially release the feature in December 2026 as part of the annual Holiday Update.
Further reading
You can find more updates on software features and vehicle maintenance in our Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Autoevolution.
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Would you use automated software routines to control vehicle settings or receive custom alerts?
