Tesla CEO Elon Musk has once again stirred excitement and controversy in the automotive and tech worlds by revealing that Tesla drivers may soon be able to play video games while their cars operate in self-driving mode. The feature, expected to roll out within the next three to six months, will be contingent on regulatory approvals across various regions. Musk made the announcement on social media, emphasizing that the in-car gaming functionality will only activate while the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is engaged and meets all safety standards.
Elon Musk says rollout depends on regulatory approval
Musk clarified that the timing of the gaming feature’s release depends heavily on regulatory approval from individual cities and states. In a reply to a user on X (formerly Twitter), he noted, “Probably 3 to 6 months, depending on regulatory approval in your city and state.” Tesla will proceed cautiously, he added, ensuring that the gaming integration aligns with all safety guidelines in autonomous driving jurisdictions.This move reflects Tesla’s broader vision of transforming the in-car experience. Beyond just transportation, Musk envisions Teslas as entertainment hubs with high-end sound systems, streaming capabilities, and now interactive gaming. The upcoming feature would let drivers and passengers enjoy video games during commutes, road trips, or while parked, blurring the lines between travel and leisure.
Robotaxi rollout to follow in Chicago?
The video game announcement coincides with Musk’s comments about launching Tesla’s Robotaxi service in Chicago. While responding to another user online, Musk hinted that Tesla would introduce autonomous ride-hailing services in any city where Alphabet’s Waymo is already allowed to operate. “Tesla will operate there as soon as we reaffirm safety testing in that locale and receive a license to operate,” he said.
Mounting pressure after legal setback
The update arrives amid mounting scrutiny over Tesla’s Full Self-Driving technology. Just days before Musk’s statement, Tesla was ordered to pay over $243 million in damages related to a fatal 2019 crash in Florida. Critics have long questioned the safety of FSD, and industry analysts believe Tesla will face greater pressure to prove the system’s reliability, especially with plans to enable hands-free entertainment.As Tesla races toward full autonomy, the integration of entertainment features like video games signals a future where vehicles are not just smart but recreational. Whether regulators will share Musk’s enthusiasm remains to be seen, but the timeline he’s set could make the feature one of Tesla’s most talked-about updates of 2025.
