Tesla will add Ultra-Wide Band support to its Android app
Tesla is preparing an update to its app for Android smartphones. According to Not a Tesla App, the US electric car maker will add support for Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) communications, which will allow owners of these devices to use Hands-Free Frunk Opening, Hands-Free Trunk Opening and improve the phone's function as a car key.
The mention of UWB for Android was discovered by decompiling Tesla App iOS version 4.41.0.
Here's What We Know
- Contactless boot opening: Thanks to UWB, Android smartphones will be able to more accurately detect their position relative to the car. This will allow the boot to open automatically when the driver approaches it with a smartphone in a pocket or bag, without having to reach for it or press any buttons.
- Key in the smartphone: The connection between the smartphone and the car will become more stable and reliable, making unlocking and locking doors and starting the car faster and more convenient.
It's worth noting that Tesla's iOS app already has UWB support. Extending support to Android is an important step, as it will allow more users to unlock the full potential of contactless.
Supported car and smartphone models:
UWB requires special hardware, it cannot be added with a software update alone. The new wireless protocol supports a limited number of Tesla models, specifically:
- Model 3 (Highland) 2024 model year and newer models
- Model S 2021+
- Model X 2021+
- Cybertruck
- Model Y (Juniper) 2025 - pending
Older versions of the Model S and Model X, as well as the first-generation Model 3 and the current Model Y do not support UWB.
As for UWB on the smartphone side, the technology is installed by default in most flagship smartphone models such as the Samsung S21+, Fold and the latest versions of the Google Pixel.
When will it be available?
There is no definite information yet about the timeline for the introduction of this feature for Android. However, the mention in the iOS app at least means that Tesla is working towards it. Our colleagues at Not a Tesla App suggest that Tesla could take another month or two to complete all the necessary testing on various devices.
Source: Not a Tesla App
