The Sentinel mode is one of the most prominent security features of Tesla, since it captures everything that happens around the car through its camera system. This function was launched in 2019 and has been in the news several times for registering situations of vandalism on public roads; from scratched and soiled cars, to the theft of other vehicles parked in the same area.
And in the last hours Tesla has released a software update for its vehicles – version 2021.36.8 – that allows access a live broadcast with what the Sentry Mode cameras are capturing. According to Elon Musk’s company, it is an option designed not only to increase the safety of the car, but also of its owner.
The goal of live streaming via Sentinel Mode is for drivers to monitor in real time what happens around the Tesla. Thus, they can approach the car with the peace of mind that they will not be approached by thieves, or other people with bad intentions. The function seems especially useful for those who leave the electric car on the street overnight.
As the company explains, the live broadcast is end-to-end encrypted. This means that neither Tesla nor anyone other than the vehicle owner can access the live images.
Tesla expands the possibilities of Sentinel Mode
Recall that, until now, the recordings made by Tesla’s Sentinel Mode were stored locally. In this way, drivers could review the images once the events – an act of vandalism or a traffic accident, for example – had already occurred. Live streaming allows you to instantly keep track of what is happening to the car, and its surroundings as well.
And as if this were not enough, it is also possible to speak through the speakers. According to Elon Musk, it is a great option to “joke”:
For now, the option to watch live through the Sentinel Mode cameras is available only in the Tesla app for iOS. Elektrek indicates that it is not yet known when it will reach Android users.
It is worth noting that this new function is available to those who have a subscription Premium Connectivity. This package is offered in a free 30-day trial period on the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y; once fulfilled, it must be paid a monthly fee of 10 dollars.