Tesla has adjusted how its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system tracks driver attention. Many drivers had complained that the system gave alerts even during harmless actions like changing the A/C or adjusting Autopilot speed. The old version limited eye movement to around 7 seconds, which many found too strict. The company has now made changes to ease this issue. The goal is to keep safety high but reduce annoyance.
Tesla says the new system still keeps safety as the main goal, but cuts down on alerts that don’t help.
What changed in the update
The system uses a camera inside the car to watch the driver’s eye movements. Earlier versions reacted quickly, even when the driver looked away for a moment. Simple tasks like adjusting the air or tapping the screen would often trigger alerts. Drivers found that frustrating.
Now, with software version 2025.14.6 and FSD version 13.2.9, there’s more room for short distractions. The system gives a little more time before warning the driver. It no longer alerts during quick glances for basic tasks. This change applies to Tesla vehicles with Hardware 4.
Driver reactions and Tesla’s reply
Many drivers had said the old system felt too aggressive. Some said it warned them even when they were doing things safer than driving without Autopilot, like adjusting its settings. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, answered a complaint on X with “You’re right.” This short reply confirmed that the company heard the feedback.
After the fix, drivers began to notice a better experience. They said the camera now feels less strict.
How the system works now
The monitoring system is still active. It checks if drivers are paying attention. If someone ignores alerts, they can lose access to FSD for the rest of the trip.
The update doesn’t remove this safety rule. It just gives users more room to do simple tasks without being warned right away. Tesla says it’s working to make FSD more accurate and easier to use over time. The company plans to keep improving how the system works.
Robotaxi Faces Early Criticism Ahead of Launch
Tesla plans to start its Robotaxi service in June 2025. A private test will begin in Austin, using 10 to 20 Model Y vehicles. But some media outlets have already called the project a failure, even though it hasn’t launched.
Dan O’Dowd and other critics question whether the service is ready or safe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has asked Tesla for more details, especially about how the system handles low-visibility conditions. This kind of request is typical when new driving tech is being reviewed.
Tesla continues to defend its safety record. The company says vehicles using Autopilot have about ten times fewer crashes than the U.S. average.
Cathie Wood on Tesla’s Brand and Future Plans
Cathie Wood, CEO of ARK Invest and longtime Tesla investor, said the brand has taken a hit recently. She pointed to slower sales in countries like Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
She believes Elon Musk’s political activity over the past eight months has hurt Tesla’s image. In an interview with Bloomberg, she said: “Brand damage, yes, it has happened, but I believe it’s short-term.”
Wood expects Musk to focus more on Tesla in 2025. She sees future growth coming from several areas, Robotaxi, cheaper vehicles, the Semi truck, and the Optimus robot.
Bonus Offer for Lyft Drivers Buying Teslas
Tesla is now offering Lyft drivers $1,000 in credits if they buy a Tesla and complete 100 rides by July 13, 2025. The vehicle must be delivered by June 30.
These credits can be used for Supercharging, service, or items from the Tesla Shop. The offer applies to all Tesla models, including the Cybertruck.
Lyft is planning its own self-driving program with Mobileye in 2026. But for now, Tesla’s deal targets ride-hailing drivers who are still using regular vehicles. Lyft is also offering its own $1,000 bonus under the same terms. Drivers who qualify could earn a total of $2,000.
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