Tesla initiates the sudden launch of 'Actually Smart Summon' feature
In a significant step towards achieving unsupervised Full Self-Driving, Tesla has rolled out new features as part of version 12.5. These updates, announced by CEO Elon Musk on X, are designed to improve the functionality of supervised Full Self-Driving and bring the company closer to Musk's vision.
The new features include "Actually Smart Summon" (ASS) and "Dumb Summon." The former allows Tesla owners to call their vehicle to them or send it to a location of their choosing. The latter enables owners to move their Teslas forward or backward with controls in the Tesla mobile app. Both functions work with the latest versions of the Tesla mobile app.
While these new features do not yet enable unsupervised Full Self-Driving, they represent progress towards that goal. Elon Musk believes that version 12.5 will bring a significant improvement in the performance of supervised Full Self-Driving.
It's important to note that these features should only be used in parking lots or driveways. Users are advised to stay vigilant around fast and furious (people, bikes, and other cars) while using ASS and Dumb Summon. Users are still responsible for their vehicles while using the new features and should watch as they drive and stop the vehicle if necessary.
To use the features, users have to hold down the button in the app to get their Tesla to move, and it will stop if and when they release. The release notes emphasize the importance of vigilance and responsibility when using the new features in real-world environments.
Tesla made progress with the software in Q2, as stated during the company's earnings call. The release of ASS and Dumb Summon brings Tesla one step closer to achieving unsupervised Full Self-Driving.
The transition to unsupervised Full Self-Driving, according to Musk, can unlock massive potential. Drew Baglino, Tesla's Senior Vice President of Powertrain and Energy Engineering, is the key person responsible for Tesla's development of fully autonomous self-driving software following Musk.
The release notes include a video of the autonomous software in use at a Costco parking lot, demonstrating the capabilities of the new features. Tesla's new features are a testament to the company's commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology.
