Tesla’s "Actually Smart Summon" Feature Gets a New Timeline: Elon Musk Says It’s Coming With FSD Version 12.5.x
Tesla Inc TSLA CEO Elon Musk has once again shared a timeline for the highly anticipated "Actually Smart Summon" feature, which will be included in future versions of the company’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) driver assistance technology. Musk confirmed in a recent post on X, formerly Twitter, that the code for this feature will be bundled with the upcoming 12.5.x version of FSD.
Key Takeaways:
- "Actually Smart Summon" is Coming: This long-awaited feature, designed to enable users to summon their Tesla cars and even have them "banish" themselves after use, is finally expected to arrive next month.
- Bundled with FSD 12.5.x: The code for "Actually Smart Summon" is distinct, but it will be part of the next FSD update roll-out.
- Delayed Again: While Musk has previously stated the feature was "almost done" and "coming soon," it has faced multiple delays.
- Musk Pushes FSD: Tesla is pushing forward with the development of FSD and considers it a key driver of its future value.
A History of Delays and Excitement
The promise of "Actually Smart Summon" has captivated Tesla owners, who eagerly await the ability to automatically call their cars from afar and seamlessly manage their parking logistics. This was particularly evident in October 2022 when Musk declared the feature "almost done."
Fast forward to 2024, and the feature was still in the works. Earlier this year, Musk again reaffirmed its impending arrival, but he refrained from providing a precise timeline.
With the recent announcement that it will be bundled with FSD 12.5.x, the wait for "Actually Smart Summon" appears to be over. Tesla is currently deploying the new FSD 12.5 software, which brings incremental improvements to its self-driving capabilities.
Why "Actually Smart Summon" Matters: Beyond Convenience
While "Actually Smart Summon" offers a convenient way to interact with your Tesla, its impact extends beyond ease of use. The feature is a key step towards achieving Tesla’s overarching goal of Full Self-Driving (FSD). FSD is the company’s vision of completely autonomous vehicles, capable of performing all driving tasks without human intervention.
Musk’s pronouncements about FSD have been bold. He recently asserted on Tesla’s second-quarter earnings call that vehicle autonomy is the driving force behind Tesla’s future value. He made a direct appeal to investors, urging those who doubt Tesla’s ability to deliver FSD to sell their shares.
What Does the Future Hold for Tesla & FSD?
The release of "Actually Smart Summon" marks a significant milestone for Tesla’s FSD program. It demonstrates the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of autonomy, and its continued advancements in AI and software development.
The feature will not only enhance user convenience but will also provide valuable data for Tesla to further refine its FSD models and bring the dream of self-driving cars closer to reality.
However, it’s crucial to emphasize that "Actually Smart Summon" is just one component of Tesla’s FSD roadmap. The feature’s arrival does not signify the immediate realization of fully autonomous driving, as there are still many challenges and regulatory hurdles to overcome.
The Road Ahead: FSD’s Future is Uncertain
Tesla’s FSD ambitions have faced public skepticism, particularly in light of numerous accidents involving Tesla vehicles equipped with its self-driving technology. Despite these setbacks, Tesla remains committed to its FSD vision.
Regulators and industry experts are closely watching Tesla’s progress, and the fate of "Actually Smart Summon" could determine public perception of the company’s future. If the feature delivers on its promises and integrates seamlessly into FSD, it could be a major catalyst for mainstream adoption.
While the future of FSD remains uncertain, the arrival of "Actually Smart Summon" represents a tangible step forward for Tesla. It signifies the company’s unwavering focus on autonomous driving, and its dedication to continuously improving its self-driving technology.
The next few months will be critical for Tesla. The performance of "Actually Smart Summon" and the continued development of FSD will be closely monitored by the public, industry experts, and regulators alike.
