New Tesla 'Model Pi' specifications | Working on Mars?

Tesla's rumoured new 'Model Pi' smartphone designed to work on Mars? Here's what we know — and don't know

TESLA PHONE THIS 2021? It’s been widely reported that US-based EV maker Tesla will “officially” launch the Model Pi phone "later this year". It’s not clear exactly when, if at all, but the tech rumour mill is awash with Pi talk. In September, devdiscourse.com reported: “2021 did not pass by Elon Musk. Every day in search engines, people ask the same question - Is Tesla releasing a phone? Yes, we will see Elon Musk's smartphone soon

Connections to Neuralink

This, like Neuralink itself, is more of a pipedream. Yes, it’s an Elon Musk baby and yes, it even has its own website, but the neurotech company isn’t anywhere close to releasing consumer-level brain-machine interface products yet. And they will absolutely have to be consumer-level for a Tesla phone to support native connections. The most we can hope for here are some interesting medical applications born of Neuralink research in several years, such as supporting assistive technologies.

A Four-Lens Camera System

ADR made a straightforward copy of the four-lens system that was included in the early iPhone 12 concept art. In real life, of course, the iPhone 12 maxed out at three lenses for its rear camera system, and there’s no telling what a Tesla phone would do. Cameras are often a way for new flagship models to try and stand out, but Tesla may have other ideas in mind.

Built-In Solar Charging

Solar charging is already available for many smartphones with the right accessory or case. The idea is that you leave it out in a sunny location and get your battery partly recharged as a result – and it’s obviously eco-friendly. It’s a fun concept to think about including native solar charging on the Model Pi, and a perfect fit for Tesla. The company has already made a name for itself with its classy solar panel shingles. But there’s just one big problem with turning the back of a smartphone into a solar panel: you can’t use a case. Otherwise, we would have probably seen more smartphone brands try this by now.

Ultrasonic Fingerprint Unlock

Some kind of biometrics is an obvious pick for a Tesla phone. The company could, theoretically, use some of its development in smart cams for self-driving Tesla cars and create a Face ID system. However, fingerprint unlocking is also a possibility. The ADR concept features the ultrasonic sensor located on the touchscreen itself.

Integration with Tesla Cars

We’ll end with another no-brainer: native support for Tesla vehicles would obviously be included in a Tesla phone. That could easily include lock and unlock features, remote commands (imagine using Summon mode directly from your phone), and monitoring all car specs from battery temperature to lighting. Not only would this be an easy choice, but it would also probably be a primary marketing point for the phone, too.