Choosing Your Tesla Software Update Preference: Standard vs. Advanced [Musk Confirms Ongoing Usage]

In the Software settings of your Tesla, you have the option to select your software update preference. You can choose between "Standard" and "Advanced," which essentially dictates how soon you'd like to receive the latest software updates.

Tesla describes this feature as follows:

“Your [Car Name] will regularly receive over-the-air software updates that add new features and improve existing functionality. Choose ADVANCED if you want your [Car Name] to receive the newest updates as soon as they are available for your vehicle's configuration.”

It’s about deciding whether you want updates more frequently, along with the latest features as they roll out, or if you prefer to wait for a more stable version that’s been tested more extensively.

For a while, many Tesla owners speculated that this option had lost its relevance, possibly a remnant from Tesla’s Early Access programs from 2018. However, in a recent social media post, Elon Musk confirmed that Tesla still actively uses this setting to determine update rollouts.

In a post on X, Musk mentioned that Tesla is continuing to work out some kinks with FSD v12.5, but those who have selected ‘Advanced’ will be the first to receive the update. It’s unclear whether Tesla has consistently utilized this preference or if they’ve reactivated it recently. Regardless, if you're eager to get the latest updates as quickly as possible, setting your preference to Advanced is the way to go.

Standard vs. Advanced: What’s the Difference?

The Software Update Preference setting is found under Controls > Software, where you’ll see the option to toggle between Standard and Advanced, with Standard being the default. It appears that Tesla can tailor update distributions not just based on vehicle configuration, model, and region, but also according to your chosen update preference. If you opt for Advanced, you’re more likely to receive updates sooner and benefit from more frequent bug fixes.

It’s reassuring to see that Tesla is still leveraging this option, but it would be great if they provided a bit more transparency around how their release process works.