Tesla is working to increase the capabilities that owners will have if they utilize an Android smartphone, helping bring more features to those who do not use iOS, Apple’s software platform.
Android owners are at a distinct disadvantage if they drive a Tesla. For the most part, new features come quicker to iPhone users. Android owners still receive the same features, but it is usually weeks, or sometimes months, later than when iPhone users receive them.
One prime example of this is the recent rollout of the hands-free frunk feature that Tesla rolled out this past weekend. iPhone users are able to use their phone key to open the frunk of the Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck, and all they have to do is stand in front of it. It will then prop open, or in the Cybertruck’s case, open completely.
Android users are unable to use this feature at this point, which is unfortunate, but it seems Tesla is working to increase the capabilities that those who use that operating system will have.
According to Wes Morrill, the Cybertruck’s Lead Engineer, the automaker “needs support from each [phone] manufacturer to access their devices’ hardware.”
He said Tesla is working to get to this point with these companies:
Android users are starting to receive features like Sentry Mode previews, but iPhone users had this capability months ago. As of now, it is definitely a better idea to own an iPhone if you are a Tesla owner simply because of the features.
However, it looks like some changes could be coming so that Android owners are getting features quicker than ever before.
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