Elon Musk announced on Thursday that Tesla’s newest Full Self-Driving software permits drivers to use their phones while operating vehicles—a practice banned in nearly every U.S. state.
Key takeaways:
- Tesla’s updated FSD software no longer alerts drivers using phones while the system operates, with Musk citing “context of surrounding traffic” as the determining factor
- Texting while driving remains illegal in almost all 50 states, with roughly half banning any handheld phone use entirely
- Federal investigators are already examining over 50 incidents involving FSD running red lights or veering into wrong lanes
The Tesla CEO’s statement on X raises immediate questions about liability and regulatory compliance.
Musk responded to a user who noticed the latest FSD update eliminated phone-use warnings during operation. The CEO provided minimal explanation, noting the system adjusts based on traffic conditions. Tesla’s lack of a public relations department means no additional clarification is forthcoming. Musk did not respond to requests for comment.
The announcement creates a direct conflict with existing traffic laws. U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics data shows texting while driving is prohibited across nearly all states, while approximately 25 states have outlawed handheld phone use altogether.
FSD remains a driver-assistance system, not autonomous technology. Tesla initially required drivers to keep their hands on the wheel during FSD operation. That restriction was later dropped, replaced by in-cabin camera monitoring to verify drivers watch the road.
The system combines cabin cameras with steering wheel sensors to track driver attention. Since FSD functions as assistance rather than autonomy, drivers must be prepared to resume manual control when the software encounters scenarios it cannot manage. These handover moments frequently contribute to crashes involving driver-assistance technology.
Musk previously acknowledged that Autopilot—Tesla’s standard driver-assistance feature—sometimes creates overconfidence among drivers. Federal regulators have documented more than a dozen fatal accidents with Autopilot engaged.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration currently investigates FSD following reports of red-light violations and improper lane usage in over 50 cases. Another probe examines FSD-related crashes occurring in poor visibility. NHTSA has not yet commented on Musk’s latest announcement.
Tesla faces ongoing legal action from California’s Department of Motor Vehicles regarding FSD and Autopilot marketing practices. During July hearings, the DMV accused Tesla of deceiving customers for years by suggesting their vehicles can operate independently. The agency has requested a judge suspend Tesla’s manufacturing and sales operations in California for at least 30 days. A ruling is anticipated before year’s end.
Written by Alius Noreika
We acknowledge The European Times for the information.
