Starting right now, owners of Tesla EVs and iPhones can download an app to watch over their cars remotely in real time. The app is iOS-only at this time, but an Android version is in development, too.
Once the free trial period runs out, the app will be available via Premium Connectivity subscription ($10/month). The on-board software needs updating to version 2021.36.8 to support video streaming via the Internet.
The new feature continues the lineup of safety features introduced by Tesla a few years ago. All cars produced by the brand now feature six integrated surveillance cameras that can be used to catch thieves or vandals, or even recreate a road accident in detail. Up until recently, these cameras could only be used to record the feed to a storage and play it back later; the update finally enables real-time monitoring.
Tesla claims the streaming protocol is protected with end-to-end encryption, eliminating all risks of third parties hijacking the feed. The feature drains battery faster, however, with users on forums pointing out a considerable reduction of range after prolonged surveillance.
In a recent tweet, Tesla CEO Elon Musk mentioned that users could now also use the car’s loudspeakers remotely, which could be used to prank friends or scare away would-be burglars.