Tesla's latest FSD Beta update is so good that it should skip the version 12.3 name and go right to v13. That at least, is the opinion of Elon Musk, who has a history of being overly optimistic.
Despite the same release notes as its predecessor, v12.2.1, Elon Musk has emphasized the substantial improvements in this version. It has been released to a select group of employees and customers.
The Promise of FSD Beta v12.3
While release notes for FSD Beta 12.3 mirror those of the previous iteration, Musk's assertion of its importance cannot be understated. Described as a "big release," 12.3 is expected to bring us closer to achieving levels 4-5 of autonomous driving. The core enhancement in v12 lies in the shift towards end-to-end neural networks for vehicle control, moving away from traditional programming methods. This change aims to facilitate more natural, human-like driving behaviors. However, Tesla hacker Greentheonly believes the “end-to-end” nature of v12 may be overstated. Does FSD v12.3 possibly get us one step closer to video in, and (vehicle) controls out?
Selective Rollout and Future Plans
FSD Beta 12.3's deployment remains very limited, much like any of the v12 versions. FSD subscribers in the U.S. and Canada (FSD subscription coming to Canada) are still on the holiday update, the same update from four months ago. Meanwhile, these subscribers are watching a few hand-picked beta testers demonstrate V12.
With this latest FSD Beta reaching only some Tesla employees and several hand-picked customers, it looks like Tesla is back to testing FSD releases with a special group. Just a few months ago, Tesla had two software tracks, the production track which included a stable version of FSD Beta and included the latest Tesla updates, and the “early” FSD Beta track, which had the latest public FSD Beta build but was often 2-3 firmware updates behind.
It looks like Tesla may have wanted to do away with that, but in the process has left all FSD customers on older firmware that doesn’t contain the latest FSD Beta build or the latest features in update 2024.2 or update 2024.8.3.
Maybe Tesla should consider giving customers the choice of development tracks. They already have the “Software Update Preference” setting in the vehicle that allows customers to pick from the “Standard” or “Advanced” software tracks.
FSD Beta: A Journey of Innovation
FSD updates used to be regular with builds often going out every two weeks. However, in the past year, the release cycle has slowed down to just a few FSD Beta updates per year. This extended delay in rolling out v12, which was first demonstrated by Musk last summer, may provide insight into how complex the new system is and how challenging it is for Tesla’s team of engineers. Despite delays and cautious rollouts, Tesla's dedication to refining and advancing its FSD technology remains unwavering.
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In the US, the CaroakeMic will run you $215 USD, while it’ll cost you a $300 CAD if you’re in the Great White North. These are a bit higher than the prices we originally estimated, but these also include a hardshell carrying case
Rock Out
You can rock out using the new CaraokeMic – it syncs automatically to your vehicle, and each one has a ten-hour battery life. And you’re not limited to just Caraoke – you can open any media app and get singing.
The CaraokeMic syncs with both the front and the rear touchscreens in vehicles, and comes with “anti-howling” technology, so that your opera-worthy renditions don’t shatter any ears – ahem – come through nice and clean.
There are 2 CaraokeMics per package, along with a receiver, data cable, charging cable, and hardshell storage bag. The mics themselves light up when they’re in use, and when they’re charging too. You can turn them on by simply pressing down a button on the bottom of the mic, which will also begin the sync process. Keep in mind that the receiver will need to be plugged into the a USB port in the vehicle that has data access — usually the glovebox or in the center console on older vehicles.
The data cable is USB-A to USB-C, coming from the car to the receiver, which the mics wirelessly sync to. The charging cable also seems to be the same, USB-A at the power source (which can be the car), and going to the USB-C on the CaraokeMic. Since the data and power cables appear to be the same, you should be able to use the cables interchangeably as charging cables.
The CaraokeMic requires vehicle update 2024.26 or later and the vehicle must have an Intel Atom or AMD Ryzen infotainment unit.
Tesla has begun to reach out to customers in the United States and is offering demo drives of the Cybertruck on an invite-only basis. @brandonhd on X shared the first invite image, and it looks like it's going out quite quickly to multiple locations that have Cybertrucks on display.
Up until now, display vehicles have been for just that – looking, but no touching. Some Tesla delivery centers and showrooms have also allowed viewers to take a seat inside and open it up, but most are still locked away behind the velvet rope.
It’s exciting to see that Tesla has begun to demo them – and it can only be so long until demo drives open up to everyone.
Advisor-led Demo
This Demo Drive is led by a Tesla Advisor – while you’re driving, the advisor will be in the passenger seat, walking you through the experience. They’ll explain steer-by-wire, off-road controls, and will introduce new-to-Tesla buyers to all the features that are currently available.
The list of locations so far for demo drives appears to be fairly limited, but we will hopefully see demo drives roll out throughout the United States, and eventually Canada too. Here is the current list of city/state locations that have seen demo drive invites.
TeslaFi logs your drives and charging sessions, letting you keep a log of your vehice's activity. We highly recommend checking them out if you use your car for business trips and would like to keep track of reimbursements, if you like to see how much you spend on charging or if you just love statistics. Visit their site and see everything they have to offer!
Tesla Android Project enables you to run Android apps in your Tesla. The platform is Open Source and you can deploy it on your own Raspberry Pi 4. Consider supporting the initiative by donating or purchasing the Compute Module 4 Bundle that delivers the best experience. Get $20 off by using the code: NotATeslaApp
The official Tesla app only notifies you if your car is broken into. By installing Sentry Pro on your phone, you will be notified for all Sentry Mode events. Stay connected and avoid potential surprises by receiving notifications. Stop constantly checking the cameras to ensure safety. Check only when necessary, save battery and get peace of mind. Get a 7 day free trial here!
Stay organized, connected, and stylish with Cyberbackpack — the #1 backpack, luggage & travel accessories for Tesla owners. We highly recommend checking them out if you commute or travel and would like a backpack or luggage that is sleek, secure and durable. View their products page and see everything they have to offer!
Enhance Auto’s innovative products elevate your Tesla experience. The customizable S3XY Buttons and Knob offer seamless control over vehicle features with a simple press or turn. Visit enhauto.com to explore their full range of products and transform your driving experience today!
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Although we share official Tesla release notes, we are not affiliated with Tesla Motors. We are Tesla fans and supporters.
![Tesla Is Now Offering Cybertruck Test Drives [List of Locations]](https://www.notateslaapp.com/img/containers/article_images/cybertruck/cybertruck-demo.jpg/1356c877fb90cc7beb02335e757420ca/cybertruck-demo.jpg)
