Best Tesla Apps for iPhone iOS
Tesla cars are renowned for their cutting-edge technology and innovative features.
The official Tesla mobile app, with its ability to locate your Tesla EV and monitor charging status, remains the primary choice for many Tesla owners. However, for those seeking options for additional functionality, a range of third-party apps, mobile and non-mobile, are available.
A variety of different apps have been developed specifically for Tesla owners which aim to unlock the full potential of your electric vehicle. In this post, we will explore some of these third-party apps that can improve your Tesla experience and share a comprehensive overview of their uses and benefits.
Best Tesla Apps
Note: It is important to exercise caution with third-party apps for your Tesla electric vehicle. Entrusting your Tesla account password to a third-party app or individual requires careful consideration.
When an unauthorized person gets your Tesla password, they potentially gain the ability to locate, unlock, and even tamper with your vehicle. The storage and accessibility of your password by unknown entities can be a significant security concern.
Ultimately, the decision to use third-party apps and accept the associated risks lies with each individual Tesla owner. Evaluate the security measures of the apps before providing your Tesla account credentials.
Official Tesla App
The Tesla Mobile App stands as the ultimate choice when it comes to apps for Tesla owners. Designed for both Android and iOS devices, this official application is the most seamless way to manage of your Tesla vehicle.
Not only does the official Tesla app provide access to essential features and functionality of your car, but it also keeps you informed via notifications about changes and situations regarding your Tesla vehicle. For example, whenever your Tesla requires a software update, you can conveniently initiate it through the app.
The Tesla Mobile app also integrates with the autopilot mode. In certain situations, you can instruct your Tesla to pick you up using the app.
In addition to controlling driving functions, the app also allows you to manage your car’s entertainment system.
Here are some of the functionalities offered by the Tesla Mobile app:
- GPS Tracking keeps tabs on your Tesla’s location (whether parked or in motion)
- Remote Locking and Unlocking without relying on a physical key
- Software Upgrades directly from the app
- Climate Control temperature adjustments inside your Tesla before entering the vehicle
- Valet Mode restricts certain vehicle functions from guest drivers
Pros of using the Tesla Mobile App
- Seamless integration with Tesla vehicles
- Covers most basic functions needed by most drivers
Cons of using the Tesla Mobile App
- Potential security risk if the app password falls into the wrong hands
- Sometimes the app doesn’t work/connect when you want or need it to. (limited connectivity, bug, software update needed, etc..)
For better or worse, it should be noted that though you can execute certain actions with the Tesla vehicle using the connected mobile app, the app cannot be used as a key. You cannot drive your Tesla simply by having a connected app on your phone but missing your physical Tesla key.
The official Tesla app remains an indispensable tool for Tesla owners, with comprehensive controls and insights into various aspects of your vehicle. With its user-friendly interface and wide range of features, the Tesla Mobile app elevates the Tesla ownership experience on its own.
Tesla Trip Planner Apps
For Tesla’s proprietary Route Planner, you can access direction through the vehicle’s dashboard when you’re on the road.
Use the map function and enter start and end destinations on the touchscreen in your vehicle, and Tesla’s navigation will map out a route based on charging stations on the way. It can also adjust your route for traffic, though it may not be as powerful as Google Maps or Waze.
One important advantage Tesla’s native navigation map has is the ability to see how many open chargers are available at any super charger AND the max type of kW charging (new gen vs. older gen):
The Tesla route planner website is also available for access on a computer or other device. It lets you enter the type of Tesla, start point, end point, and any stops along the way.
It will then provide a route with the total drive time, miles, and charger stops along the way – including how long you’ll want to charge for in order to complete the next leg of your route.
“A Better Route Planner”
A Better Route Planner (ABRP) is a navigation app specifically designed to enhance the driving experience of electric vehicle drivers. This app is available for both Android and iOS devices.
ABRP gives precise estimates that go beyond the in-built Tesla navigation system.
When using ABRP, you enter your starting point, desired pit stops, and final destination. The app then generates a comprehensive route plan, with recommendations for optimization.
One of the app’s standout features is its ability to provide accurate estimates for timing and duration, taking into account factors like climate and elevation.
Additionally, ABRP has real-time alerts about Tesla superchargers along your planned route so you can plan your charging stops strategically.
Pros of using A Better Route Planner (ABRP)
- Route time estimates account for climate and elevation
- Real-time notices about Tesla superchargers
Cons of using A Better Route Planner (ABRP)
- Requires simultaneous use with the Tesla navigation system for real-time navigation during the trip.
ABRP is highly regarded among Tesla owners and other electric vehicle drivers as a reliable and efficient trip planning tool. By considering factors such as waypoints, elevation, and estimated range, ABRP enables you to plan routes that maximize your Tesla’s performance.
PlugShare
FREE Get the PlugShare app for iOS
FREE Get the PlugShare app for Android
PlugShare app is an app we started using years ago with our earlier EVs. It has a comprehensive and accurate map of charging stations for all electric vehicles.
With its detailed and user-friendly interface, PlugShare allows you to easily find charging stations for Tesla and other EV brands. The app’s extensive database includes various types of charging stations, including Tesla Superchargers, Destination chargers, and other public stations.
One of the best features of PlugShare is its mapping functionality. You can input your destination, and the app will display all relevant charging stations along your route.
PlugShare allows you to filter the displayed charging stations based on plug type, network, and other preferences so you can quickly find the most suitable charger locations for your Tesla.
You can also create a personalized list of your favorite charging stations for trip planning purposes.
PlugShare also benefits from an active community of EV drivers who contribute reviews and photos of charging stations. This user-generated content helps you make informed decisions and avoid broken or crowded chargers.
Pros of using PlugShare
- Comprehensive map of all charging stations, not just Tesla
- Options to filter the charger search
- Ability to save favorite charging stations
- Driver reviews and photos for more reliable charging information
Cons of using PlugShare
- No syncing capabilities with Tesla’s in car user experience.
- Does not show real time use of charging availability
It is worth noting that while PlugShare is a free app, some charging stations may require payment for their services. However, PlugShare offers a secure payment option within the app for participating charging stations.
To use the Trip Planner feature of PlugShare, you will need to create a free account with PlugShare. You can then view your saved trips on the website and iOS app.
Overall, PlugShare can be a valuable tool for Tesla drivers, especially when using chargers outside the Tesla network.
Tesla Entertainment Apps
Tesla vehicles come with a decent audio system that rivals premium brands. Music streaming can be seamless, with options for both free and subscription-based services already integrates in the Tesla dashboard.
Free/Included Tesla Audio Features
- Bluetooth Audio – stream music, podcasts, audiobooks, etc via Bluetooth from your cellphone
- USB Drive- owners can plug in a USB drive with downloaded MP3s to play their personal music collection.
- FM Radio – traditional radio station (AM radio only available on older cars, or through TuneIn)
Subscription-Based and Third-Party Apps
To utilize certain paid streaming services (like Spotify or Netflix) through Tesla’s infotainment system, without the connection of a smartphone, Tesla offers a subscription plan called Premium Connectivity. Currently the cost is $9.99/month or $99 annually.
- Tesla Streaming via Slacker Radio – ad-free music streaming
- Apple Music – playlists, featured music, and voice command integration
- TIDAL – high-quality lossless music streaming (requires HiFi subscription)
- TuneIn – ad-free streaming of music, news networks, and live sports, including NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL
- SiriusXM – curated music stations, talk radio, and sports streaming (available in Model S and X)
- Caraoke – popular karaoke songs through the infotainment system
- Tesla Theater – Netflix, YouTube, Hulu and a growing list of others (Media Control Unit version 2 required)
Tesla Apps for Controls and Stats
SentryView
$7.99 Get the SentryView app for iOS
SentryView is an app designed specifically for Tesla owners who want to make the most of their vehicle’s Sentry Mode and dashcam features.
When you install SentryView on your device and connect it to your Tesla, it organizes dashcam footage videos automatically. This way you can quickly locate specific events you wish to review.
Its live preview capability allows you to have a real-time view of your car’s surroundings even when you’re away from the vehicle.
SentryView’s playback controls let you pause, rewind, and fast-forward videos as needed. And it can display all camera angles simultaneously.
While SentryView is exclusively available for iOS devices, Android users can explore alternatives such as TeslaCam Reviewer.
Pros of using SentryView
- Better management of Tesla Sentry Mode and dashcam footage
- Real-time monitoring of your car’s surroundings even when away
Cons of using SentryView
- Only available for iOS devices
TeslaFi Non-Phone Program
TeslaFi is not a phone app, actually. The website provides members, Tesla owners, with a comprehensive analysis of various aspects of their vehicles.
The interface allows you to track driving statistics such as energy consumption, charging rates, battery health, and energy usage in a detailed manner. It is very information-dense but presented in a logical way.
Informative graphs help you understand how your driving habits impact the EV’s efficiency. You can see daily averages or monthly summaries on a calendar.
Monitoring charging rates, battery degradation, and energy usage helps you to identify any potential issues or irregularities and optimize the charging process to protect the long-term health of your Tesla’s battery.
The app requires a payment of $5 per month or $50 per year to access its services and reports. However, TeslaFi offers a two-week free trial. To use TeslaFi, you need to log into your Tesla account within the app for verification and connectivity.
Pros of using TeslaFi
- Comprehensive monitoring and analysis of driving statistics
- Detailed visual graphs
- Breaks down energy efficiency reports based on temperature outside
- Monitors battery health and degradation over time
- Integrates with Amazon Alexa to report stats and operate car controls
Cons of using TeslaFi
- Requires a subscription
- Not mobile-friendly, only works on computer
TezLab App for Teslas
FREE Get the TezLab app for iOS
FREE Get the TezLab app for Android
TezLab is a third-party app for Tesla owners with a range of features to monitor and optimize your vehicle’s performance.
TezLab’s location tracking and charging insights allows you to access detailed information about your drives, rides, and charges.
One of the unique features of TezLab is its leaderboards, which allow you to compare your stats with other Tesla owners. You can see how you fare in terms of average speeds and energy usage, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition.
TezLab is a free app that offers a gamification aspect where users can earn badges for hitting milestones or completing tasks, adding an element of fun and engagement to the Tesla ownership experience.
TezLab also provides monitoring capabilities for your Tesla’s charging sessions.
Additionally, TezLab has some Tesla trip planning features as well.
To start using TezLab for your Tesla, simply log in with your Tesla account credentials, and the app will automatically begin tracking your vehicle’s data. The app prioritizes the protection of your login information through secure encryption methods.
Pros of using TezLab
- Leaderboards for comparing stats with other Tesla owners
- Charging monitoring to optimize energy consumption
- Support for trip planning with charging stops
- Includes some car controls
- Free to use
Cons of using TezLab
- The company may be selling your (anonymous) driving/usage data
- Your trips are displayed to other users by default
Other Tesla Apple Watch Apps
Tesla watch apps can give Tesla owners convenient access and control of their vehicles directly from their Apple Watches.
Each app offers unique features and benefits.
Watchla focuses on replacing the need for a phone by delivering a fully capable app on the wrist. It pairs the watch as a vehicle key and monitors charging and vehicle conditions.
Stats for Tesla provides statistics and monitoring for battery health, driving efficiency, and charge reminders.
Tessie does tracking, automation, battery health measurement, and integration with voice assistants.
Watchla for Apple Watch
$6.99 Get the iOS app
- Bluetooth connectivity for vehicle access
- Offline vehicle connection
- Check vehicle statuses (charge, climate, etc.)
- Perform vehicle commands instantly
- Critical vehicle alerts
- Siri Shortcuts support
- Keyless driving
- Homelink support
- Sentry Mode support
- Multiple vehicles support
- User-set vehicle wake preferences
- Remote door unlatch
Watch app for Tesla
$19.99 Get the iOS app
- Pair Apple Watch as a vehicle key
- Notifications for unplugged vehicle
- Switch between multiple vehicles
- Queue up commands for background execution
- Unlock vehicle with charge port unlock
- Warning panel for open doors, windows, or trunks
- Access to frunk from Apple Watch
- Set charge limit and start charging from Apple Watch
- Activate HVAC remotely
- Unlock and start vehicle from Apple Watch
- Privacy-focused design
Stats for Tesla
$110 lifetime Free trial on iOS app
- Comparison of car’s max range against similar cars
- View dash-cam videos on iPhone/iPad
- Warm-up battery at specified time
- Climate and charge scheduling
- Battery health, driving efficiency, and miles driven information
- Charge reminder and open door/trunk notification
- Siri Shortcuts support
- Graphs for battery health, efficiency, and firmware
- Cost savings calculation
- Driving efficiency history and phantom drain statistics
- Notifications for open doors and unlocked vehicle
- Siri Shortcuts for climate control and charge port
- Addresses sent to the car from iOS device
- Supports multiple vehicles
- Export stats to spreadsheetsCons of Stats for Tesla
- Requires iCloud Drive to be enabled
Subscription or one-time lifetime purchase required for access to certain functions
Tessie app
$200 lifetime Free trial on iOS app
- Track driving and charging
- Control and Summon Tesla from Apple Watch and desktop
- Siri and Alexa integration
- Battery health measurement and comparison
- Cost projections and savings recommendations
- Automation with schedules and triggers
- Custom charging schedules
- Intelligent alerts
- Import data from other Tesla apps
- Developer API for building custom Tesla software
Best Tesla Apps Conclusion
One of the best parts about any EV is the technology and access to data and information we never had before with older or typical ICE vehicles. We now have some awesome apps that act as tools to enhance our experience with our vehicles.
Tesla owners have a wide range of options with third-party apps. From trip planning with “A Better Route Planner” to accessing charging stations with PlugShare, these apps optimize your trips and make sure you can rely on charging infrastructure.
Entertainment apps include music streaming and even movies for those with a premium subscription. Apps like SentryView enhance security and monitoring, while several others provide comprehensive vehicle and efficiency analysis.
With these Tesla apps, drivers can unlock the full potential of their EVs, but more importantly, better enhance their overall experience and value.
Which Tesla apps are your favorite? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below.
