Overview
- Elon Musk confirmed on X that the latest Full Self-Driving update can permit phone use depending on surrounding traffic.
- Hands-on tests found the driver-monitoring system often refrained from issuing alerts in lighter or medium traffic but warned in heavier congestion.
- Tesla has not disclosed the specific conditions that relax attention monitoring, which appears to reduce or delay cabin-camera "nag" prompts.
- Police agencies told Business Insider that texting and handheld phone use remain unlawful regardless of driver-assistance features.
- Regulatory scrutiny continues, with NHTSA investigating reported FSD rule violations and California’s DMV pursuing a case over Tesla’s marketing.