Tesla releases Apple Watch app with mobile app update

Tesla has officially released their Apple Watch companion app, just one day after announcing the new feature would be coming as part of the 2024 Holiday Update. While the app has been released, you can only view information on your Watch and not use any of the functions yet as that requires the Holiday Update (2022.44.25+) to be installed on your vehicle.

The Apple Watch app release came through an update to the Tesla mobile app itself. On Tuesday Tesla released app version 4.39.5, with the release notes indicating support for app functions on the Apple Watch. Also included in the update is support for the ability to watch and save Dashcam and Sentry Mode clips on your iPhone, but that also requires the Holiday Update on your vehicle.

How To Install Tesla Apple Watch App

The Tesla Apple Watch app should automatically appear on your Watch after installing the mobile app update. However, this was not the case for us, and apparently many others. If this also happens to you, here’s how to install it.

Open the Watch app on your iPhone and scroll down to the ‘Available Apps’ section. If you see Tesla, tap the install button, and this should hopefully install it.

If not, open the App Store on your Watch and download any free app. Once this free app is downloaded and installed, go back to the Watch app on your iPhone and tap ‘Install’ again, and this time it should work. Thanks to X user @scottbuscemi for this tip. You can also try restarting your Apple Watch.

While the app now appears, you will get a message on your Watch saying “Vehicle software update required” after attempting to use any of the functions (more on those below). The release notes don’t state it, but as mentioned above this requires vehicle software version 2024.44.25+. Tesla says this update will come within the next week, although the release will be staggered and not immediately available to everyone.

Unfortunately, there also some Apple Watch requirements. The Tesla Apple Watch App requires watchOS 11.0+. This version is only available for Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), Apple Watch Series 6+, and Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2.

Tesla Apple Watch Features

Once you get past the installation, you will soon be able to control certain functions of your vehicle from your Apple Watch. From the main screen there are buttons to lock/unlock the vehicle, open the frunk, turn on/off climate control, and view the vehicle’s state of charge (tap to switch between % and km/miles).

Swiping up with your finger or using the Digital Crown reveals more functions, including open/close the trunk and charge port, flash the headlights, and honk the horn.

If your Apple Watch supports complications, you can also display additional information on your Watch face, including:

  • Home Usage
  • Powerwall Status
  • Self-Powered
  • Solar Generation
  • Solar Offset
  • State of Charge
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