

News
Tesla extends battery range for drivers in South Florida until October 1
In the wake of Hurricane Irma, Tesla sent out an over-the-air software update that allowed Model S/X 60D drivers to extend their 75 kWh battery range from 210 to 249 miles. Tesla issued the update to help drivers flee from the hurricane, and apparently the company is allowing its drivers to enjoy the extended range through the end of the month.
Tesla drivers in South Florida received a notification from explaining that they would be able to continue using the 249-mile battery capacity until Oct. 1, according to a post from Ludachris9000 on the Tesla Subreddit.
“With the passing of Hurricane Irma, our thoughts are with you, your fellow Tesla drivers and all those affected by the storm,” the notification reads. “So that you may focus on what’s most important to you, we will return your vehicle’s battery to its original capacity on Oct. 1.”
The extended battery range is likely in response to the storm’s aftermath as well as the potential for more hurricanes in the near future.
Ludachris9000 was among the first to question the battery update once it was issued roughly two weeks ago.
“I’m in South Florida and I own a MS60. I just checked my app and look what it says. I’ve never been higher that 215 miles. Did Tesla do this for evacuations?” asked Redditor Ludachris9000.
Despite Tesla’s efforts to provide a beneficial upgrade for those who may have really needed it, many were bothered by Tesla’s decision. In the past, it was assumed that the vehicle range was the direct result of the battery size.
By providing an over-the-air range upgrade, Tesla conceded that the battery size in the Model S/X 60D is not what’s holding the vehicle back from better range. Instead, software prohibits that model from extending its range.
The unlockable battery upgrade was one of several features that could be enabled through a Tesla over-the-air software update. The program was designed to minimize the price barrier of entry by allowing buyers to pay less up front and have the option to upgrade at a later time through an in-car purchase.
While some Redditors were excited to have increased range through the end of the month, others were less than pleased.
BraveRock, a Reddit user, said “Tesla you just lost yourself a customer in AZ. I will never buy a car that is no longer offered by you!”
The user also linked to a separate thread by Arizona-Willie, which details the extent of Tesla’s ethical dilemma.
“Tesla is a very unethical company that rips off customers,” Redditor Arizona-Willie said. “They charge $7,000 dollars more if you want the maximum [battery] capacity. Most people presume it is a bigger battery and they were willing to pay for a bigger battery. NOT TRUE it’s the same damn battery but partially disconnected via software. All it takes is a software command to connect the entire battery and give you the full capacity.”
Despite the continued discussion, Tesla drivers in South Florida still get to enjoy the extended range until October.
News
Tesla threatened in France with claims of ‘deceptive’ practices
Tesla has been threatened by the Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control Office in France after the agency said it is participating in “deceptive business practices” related to its semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

Tesla has been threatened by the Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control Office in France after the agency said it is participating in “deceptive business practices” related to its semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
Investigators in the government office said that Tesla has engaged in deceptive commercial practices over the capabilities of its cars. In the past, other agencies and even some skeptics have said that Tesla’s use of the phrases “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” is inaccurate in terms of its capabilities.
Tesla Autopilot gets stone cast in its direction by Pete Buttigieg
However, Tesla has been transparent with consumers and regulatory agencies that its cars are not yet fully autonomous, meaning drivers could sleep, play on their phones, or pay no attention to the road. The car would take care of steering and speed.
Tesla has never maintained that its cars are capable of this. On its website and in its Owner’s Manuals, it says that drivers are required to pay attention and be prepared to take over in case of an emergency.
The office began the investigation back in 2023 and, this week, ordered Tesla to comply with regulations within the next four months. If it does not, it will face fines of €50,000 per day.
This is not the first time Tesla has had some pushback from regulators regarding the naming of its semi-autonomous driving platforms. Back in 2023, then Secretary of Transportation in the United States, Pete Buttigieg, said the name “Autopilot” was not accurate because it is still a hands-on system:
“I don’t think that something should be called, for example, an Autopilot, when the fine print says you need to have your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road at all times. We call balls and strikes. I view it as something where it’s very important to be very objective. But anytime a company does something wrong or a vehicle needs to be recalled or a design isn’t safe, we’re going to be there.”
He then said that Autopilot and its interaction with the person operating the car is a “real concern.”
Elon Musk
Tesla Robotaxi launch draws attention from regulators, mainstream media milks it
The Tesla Robotaxi launch has resulted in some questions from the NHTSA, a typical thing for early launches. Media is milking it as a huge thing.

Tesla launched its Robotaxi platform in a limited capacity earlier this week in Austin, Texas, and after hundreds of rides have been taken, some instances have caught the attention of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
However, the information the NHTSA is requesting is routine and totally normal for the early stages of a rollout of this magnitude. But that did not stop mainstream media from milking it into something controversial, when it really is not.
Tesla Robotaxi riders tout ‘smooth’ experience in first reviews of driverless service launch
Various outlets reported on the NHTSA’s request to Tesla for additional information regarding things seen in videos online.
The NHTSA said it is “aware of the referenced incidents and is in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information.” Bloomberg initially reported on the NHTSA’s request for information.
The thing is, the NHTSA has often reached out to companies right after it launches a driverless vehicle service. Both Waymo and GM’s Cruise, as well as Amazon’s Zoox, have had the NHTSA reach out to them regarding the launch of their driverless ride-hailing services.
The headlines for Tesla are significantly different:
- “Tesla’s Robotaxis Have Already Caught this US Safety Agency’s Attention“
- “Tesla’s Robotaxis have already caught the attention of federal safety regulators“
- “US safety regulators contact Tesla over erratic robotaxis“
Reviews from riders in Austin have stated the Robotaxi platform is “smooth” and “comfortable,” with many ranting and raving about the advantages the new ride-hailing service has over others. Not only is it being monitored by a safety monitor in the passenger seat, but there are also other things that make it unique.
One of the most notable is that your Robotaxi will automatically sync entertainment and streaming settings.
The sensationalism that the media tends to use with Tesla is a big reason the company did not invite mainstream outlets to the event. Instead, reporters were seen waiting for Early Access invitees to exit their cars to ask them questions.
Many denied the inquiries:
“Can I talk to you, I’m with Reuters”
> No
🤣🤣 @BeardedTesla @SawyerMerritt pic.twitter.com/jGUdakGzx1
— Robin (@xdNiBoR) June 22, 2025
Elon Musk responded to that video by saying “Lmao,” an acronym for “laughing my ass off.”
News
Starlink Cellular’s T-Mobile service to grow with third-party app data
From Oct 2025, T-Satellite will enable third-party apps in dead zones! WhatsApp, X, AccuWeather + more coming soon.

Starlink Cellular’s T-Mobile service will expand with third-party app data support starting in October, enhancing connectivity in cellular dead zones.
T-Mobile’s T-Satellite, supported by Starlink, launches officially on July 23. Following its launch, T-Mobile’s Starlink Cellular service will enable data access for third-party apps like WhatsApp, X, Google, Apple, AccuWeather, and AllTrails on October 1, 2025.
T-Mobile’s Starlink Cellular is currently in free beta. T-Satellite will add MMS support for Android phones on July 23, with iPhone support to follow. MMS support allows users to send images and audio clips alongside texts. By October, T-Mobile will extend emergency texting to all mobile users with compatible phones, beyond just T-Mobile customers, building on its existing 911 texting capability. The carrier also provides developer tools to help app makers integrate their software with T-Satellite’s data service, with plans to grow the supported app list.
T-Mobile announced these updates during an event celebrating an Ookla award naming it the best U.S. phone network, a remarkable turnaround from its last-place ranking a decade ago.
“We not only dream about going from worst to best, we actually do it. We’re a good two years ahead of Verizon and AT&T, and I believe that lead is going to grow,” said T-Mobile’s Chief Operating Officer Srini Gopalan.
T-Mobile unveiled two promotions for its Starlink Cellular services to attract new subscribers. A free DoorDash DashPass membership, valued at $10/month, will be included with popular plans like Experience Beyond and Experience More, offering reduced delivery and service fees. Meanwhile, the Easy Upgrade promotion targets Verizon customers by paying off their phone balances and providing flagship devices like the iPhone 16, Galaxy S25, or Pixel 9.
T-Mobile’s collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink Cellular leverages orbiting satellites to deliver connectivity where traditional networks fail, particularly in remote areas. Supporting third-party apps underscores T-Mobile’s commitment to enhancing user experiences through innovative partnerships. As T-Satellite’s capabilities grow, including broader app integration and emergency access, T-Mobile is poised to strengthen its lead in the U.S. wireless market.
By combining Starlink’s satellite technology with strategic promotions, T-Mobile is redefining mobile connectivity. The upcoming third-party app data support and official T-Satellite launch mark a significant step toward seamless communication, positioning T-Mobile as a trailblazer in next-generation wireless services.
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