Tesla just dropped a silent bombshell in app update 4.44.5 — and it could be the clearest signal yet that Robotaxis are almost ready to hit the streets.
While the update doesn’t say much on the surface, developers digging into the app’s code have discovered a treasure trove of hidden features — from autonomous ride control to live pickup tracking, and even a mysterious new vehicle codenamed Alicorn.
Let’s break down what Tesla’s quietly cooking up behind the scenes… and why this could be the future of transportation.
Sneak Peek Into Tesla’s Robotaxi Mode
Thanks to a decompile by @Tesla_App_iOS on X, we now know Tesla is baking Robotaxi functionality directly into the main Tesla app — no separate app required.
That means if you’re a Tesla owner or future Robotaxi user, you’ll manage everything — cars, solar panels, batteries, and now autonomous rides — all in one place.
Here’s what’s already being built into the app:
- Confirming pickup and drop-off locations
- Real-time ETA tracking
- Adding or removing destinations
- Full trip management
It’s Uber, but with no driver — and no emissions.
What’s a “Cybercab”? Meet Alicorn.
Inside the app code, the Robotaxi vehicle has been given the codename Alicorn — a mythical creature that’s part unicorn, part Pegasus.
Why Alicorn? Possibly a nod to the Cybercab’s futuristic design, with wide-opening doors and sleek styling. Think of it as a robotic chariot for the modern world.
Tesla hasn’t officially unveiled the Cybercab yet, but with names like these, it’s clear they’re aiming for something bold, iconic, and totally out of this world.
Will Robotaxis Have a Safety Driver?
Surprisingly, the new update includes references to a safety driver, with phrases like:
alicorn_button_title_call_driveralicorn_modal_subtitle_call_driver
Does this mean Tesla’s fully autonomous dreams are still on training wheels?
Maybe not permanently. Tesla could be using safety drivers temporarily in Tesla-owned Robotaxis — especially during the early rollout phase or in areas that haven’t been validated for Full Self-Driving.
Also worth noting: private Tesla owners won’t be able to add their cars to the Robotaxi network until 2026, so these early vehicles are likely owned and operated by Tesla directly.
Dynamic Supercharger Pricing Is Live (Kind Of)
Another behind-the-scenes change? Tesla is testing real-time Supercharger pricing based on how busy a station is — not just the time of day.
Instead of flat rates or peak hour pricing, Superchargers will now show:
- Current price per kWh
- Historical usage trends
- Labels like “Low Price” or “High Price” based on current demand
Only 10 Supercharger locations worldwide have this feature for now, but it’s a major shift. Dynamic pricing could spread out demand, helping prevent overcrowding and reduce wait times.
Child Left Alone Detection Is Coming
In a serious safety upgrade, Tesla is adding features to detect if a child is left alone inside the vehicle.
If detected, the car will:
- Automatically turn on climate control
- Prevent app users from turning off A/C
- Block software updates
- Alert the owner and possibly call emergency services
This shows Tesla is moving beyond performance and convenience into life-saving territory, turning their vehicles into smarter, safer machines.
Smart Summon Just Got Smarter
Remember Smart Summon? Tesla’s app-based feature that lets your car drive to you in a parking lot?
Tesla’s September 2024 update introduced Actually Smart Summon (A.S.S.), which improved pathing — but you still had to hold down a button the entire time.
Now, new code hints that this is about to change. Tesla is preparing to allow optional hands-free Smart Summon, letting the vehicle navigate toward you without needing to press and hold.
It’ll still be an opt-in setting, but it’s one more step toward true self-driving convenience.
Live Activities: Robotaxi Info Right on Your iPhone Lock Screen
Tesla is also tapping into Apple’s Live Activities feature. That means when you order a Robotaxi in the future, you’ll see:
- Live ETA updates
- Trip progress
- Possibly even charging info or roadside updates
— all from your iPhone lock screen.
This could be a game-changer for staying updated without even opening the Tesla app.
Real-Time Supercharging Cost: Know Before You Go
Since version 4.44.0, Tesla has started showing real-time charging costs during your Supercharging session.
Instead of waiting for the bill afterward, you can now see:
- Total cost so far
- Current energy being delivered
- Charging rate (kW)
- Miles or kilometers per hour added
This transparency helps drivers plan better and avoid surprise fees — especially in areas with dynamic pricing.
Fleet Mode vs. Owner Mode
Another quiet but key discovery is that Tesla is working on “Fleet Mode” vs. “Owner Mode” for Robotaxi integration.
This will likely allow users to:
- Switch between using the car personally
- Or adding it to Tesla’s Robotaxi fleet (once allowed in 2026)
It’s part of Tesla’s long-term vision where your car can make money while you sleep — literally working for you as a self-driving taxi.
Would you trust a Robotaxi to pick you up — no driver, no steering wheel, just AI behind the wheel? Share your thoughts in the comments.