Tesla seems to be making strides towards officially supporting third-party apps. In a recent update to its user settings on its website, Tesla has introduced a new section dedicated to “manage third-party apps.” This development has sparked speculation among enthusiasts about the possibility of Tesla finally launching its own app store.
The concept of a Tesla App Store, which would enable the use of third-party applications on Tesla vehicles, has been a topic of discussion since the introduction of the Model S back in 2012. While Tesla has offered an unofficial API (Application Programming Interface) that allows limited functionality for certain third-party apps, it has predominantly been utilized for mobile and browser-based applications, falling short of providing a comprehensive software development kit (SDK).
In 2016, CEO Elon Musk expressed a different approach, suggesting the adoption of app mirroring, where smartphones would be responsible for displaying infotainment information on the center console, similar to Apple’s CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it appears that Tesla has shifted its focus away from such solutions, as the company aims to maintain full control over the user experience within its vehicles.
Over the years, Tesla has gradually moved closer to the idea of an app store, introducing features like Tesla Theater and Tesla Arcade. These features bring streaming apps and video games into Tesla vehicles, albeit through direct collaborations with individual companies for integration.
Although the idea of a Tesla app store was last mentioned by Musk in 2019, there have been no significant developments until now. The inclusion of the “manage third-party apps” section within the user settings suggests that Tesla may be moving towards a more official framework, potentially granting third-party apps access to Tesla owner data.
While the recent update falls short of a confirmation for an app store, it signifies a promising step in the right direction. Tesla’s continued efforts to enhance the in-car experience and accommodate third-party applications highlight the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Enthusiasts eagerly await further developments to see if Tesla’s vision of an app store will become a reality, ushering in a new era of personalized and expanded functionality for Tesla owners.
