Model S

Make
Tesla
Segment
Sedan

Tesla's infotainment system has evolved significantly over the years, with recent major updates including new playable video games, access to video streaming services such as Netflix, and new security features. Unfortunately, owners of older versions of the Model S and Model X have missed out, since Tesla's first-generation infotainment system doesn't have the computing power to handle these updates. Luckily, Tesla is now offering a solution.

Owners of a Model S and Model X built in March 2018 or earlier are eligible for an infotainment upgrade from Tesla that will add new features and deliver a "more advanced and smoother user experience." Unlike most Tesla updates, however, this won't be implemented with a free over-the-air software update.

Instead, Tesla will replace the hardware for a $2,500 fee plus applicable tax including installation.

There's another catch, too. Eligible owners will be invited by email to schedule an appointment to purchase and install the infotainment upgrade, which means customers can't request an upgrade and have to wait to receive a notification from Tesla. Owners with "Full Self-Driving Capability" will receive early access to the infotainment upgrade, as well as a complimentary upgrade to Tesla's "Full Self-Driving Computer." Upgrades for owners with the Autopilot Computer 2.0 with Full Self-Driving Capability will start receiving notifications in late March. Tesla hasn't said when all remaining Model S and Model X owners will be eligible for the upgrade, but claims the upgrades are "coming soon."

Upgrading to Tesla's latest infotainment system will give owners of the older Model S and Model X access to an assortment of new features as well as a more responsive and smoother touchscreen and instrument cluster. The browser is also faster and supports video playback and 3D rendering support. Sadly, AM, FM and Sirius XM radio support will be removed, but customers can access online radio and music streaming services instead.

In terms of entertainment, gamers can play a range of graphically intense Tesla Arcade games including Beach Buggy Racing 2, Cuphead and Stardew Valley, while the Tesla Theater provides access to video streaming services such as YouTube, Netflix, Hulu and Twitch. Owners with the Full Self-Driving Capability Computer can also get an enhanced driving visualizer and the ability to record video from the front rear and side cameras.