For years, speculation surrounding a potential smartphone by Tesla—often referred to as the Model Pi—has captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts, akin to the persistent rumors about the elusive Apple Car. This has led to a great deal of discourse within both the tech community and among consumers.
A quick Google search for ‘Tesla phone’ reveals a Siberian company bearing the same name as Elon Musk’s American electric vehicle manufacturer, which does indeed produce mobile devices like the Explr9 and Series 3.
Elon Musk has certainly contributed to the chatter surrounding the Model Pi, expressing his discontent with Apple amid discussions about their AI advancements. When Apple announced their AI, dubbed Apple Intelligence, Musk openly criticized the partnership between Apple and OpenAI, even hinting at considering a ban on the use of iPhones within his companies, which sparked speculation that a Tesla phone could serve as a viable alternative.
So, could Tesla, under Musk’s leadership, actually be venturing into the world of mobile devices? Here’s what we know so far.
Has Tesla Already Launched a Phone?
Recently, multiple viral videos on platforms like YouTube and TikTok claimed that Tesla had launched a $100 phone that caused quite a stir online, but there’s little evidence to back these claims. It appears to be part of a trend where AI-operated websites produce clickbait content that generates ad revenue.
Simply put, if you search for ‘Tesla phone’ on YouTube, you’ll encounter a plethora of videos proclaiming the release of a device that never actually materialized. Many of these videos fall into the category of fake news, popping up routinely to exploit viewer interest.
Visiting the official Tesla website reveals no new developments related to the phone, which doesn’t align with the typical marketing strategies of the company. Additionally, Musk has not made any announcements about the phone on X (formerly Twitter), the social media platform he owns.
Numerous reports have suggested that Tesla had ‘confirmed’ the impending release of a phone, but again, these claims lack official affirmation. Many of the images cited in these reports originate from conceptual designs shared by various artists over the years.
Notably, no well-established technical publication is covering this phone, reinforcing the belief that it is not a legitimate project at this time.
It’s worth noting the existence of another smartphone brand called Tesla, a separate multinational company producing various consumer electronics and conventional appliances. This company clarifies that it has no association with Elon Musk’s Tesla Inc., which focuses on sustainable energy solutions and electric vehicles.
What Has Elon Musk Said About Tesla Making a Phone?
Elon Musk’s comments have undoubtedly fueled speculation regarding the possibility of a Tesla phone. In 2020, he stated on X that smartphones are “yesterday’s technology.”
X
He hinted that innovations by his company Neuralink, which is developing brain-implanted chips allowing device control via neural impulses, could redefine technology long before conventional smartphones fade from relevance.
However, Musk’s rhetoric has frequently suggested that while he might explore mobile device creation, it remains a low priority. In earlier discussions, particularly when Twitter was facing potential removal from the App Store by Apple, Musk claimed he could venture into making a phone only “if there is no other choice.”
More recently, during a political campaign for Trump, Musk expressed that, “The idea of making a phone makes me want to die,” yet he reiterated that if the necessity arose, Tesla would step up to the challenge, albeit reluctantly.
This hesitant attitude was expressed again during a New York Times event in late 2023, where Musk mentioned that creating a phone would only be considered if external pressures warranted such a move.
What Has Tesla Said About the Model Pi?
The publication of Tesla’s Master Plan Part IV serves as an indication of the company’s strategic focus moving forward. The plan emphasizes an ambition toward increased automation, which includes not only autonomous vehicles but also the exploration of advanced robotics.
This shift in direction seems to suggest that Tesla is de-prioritizing newer ventures tied to personal electronics, such as smartphones, in favor of technological expansion within automation and robotics. Notably, there is no mention of a smartphone in the entire plan.
What Features and Specs Could We See in the Tesla Model Pi?
Given that the Tesla ‘Model Pi’ largely exists within the realm of speculation, the rumors circulating about its potential features have become increasingly imaginative.
Design
Concept artist Antonio De Rosa has created stunning visualizations showcasing potential design aesthetics for a Tesla phone, highlighting the artistic direction, though these remain speculative and not grounded in official blueprints.
Solar Power
One of the more plausible rumors involves Tesla incorporating solar charging capabilities, allowing users to harness the sun to power their device. This aligns seamlessly with Tesla’s mission to innovate in energy solutions and emphasizes their environmental ethos. However, concerns remain about the effectiveness of such a solution in daily usage.
Moreover, potential integration with Tesla vehicles—allowing users to manage settings directly from their phone—could add another dimension to the device.
Starlink Support
Perhaps more fantastical is the speculation that the Model Pi will leverage SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, promising high-speed connectivity even where traditional cellular networks fail. Although some smartphones have begun adopting basic satellite connectivity, this rumored integration pushes the envelope of what users might expect.
Neuralink
Continuing on this trend of advanced technologies, there are whispers that the Model Pi may be engineered for compatibility with Neuralink’s brain-machine interfaces, enabling users to manage their devices through thought alone. While exhilarating, the practical implementation of such technology, especially given recent failures in similar tech, remains to be seen.
Mars Attacks!
One of the most outlandish tales floating around is that the Model Pi could extend functionality to users on Mars, thanks to Starlink technology. While such a scenario conjures exciting visions, a reliable network in everyday locales remains the more pressing concern for consumers.
How Much Would the Tesla Model Pi Cost?
Determining a price point for the anticipated Model Pi remains firmly in the realm of speculation. Should it incorporate even a fraction of the rumored features, it may well land at the higher end of the mobile device market. To reiterate: those claiming the phone would retail for a mere $100 should be viewed with skepticism.
For information on actual devices that are available today, check out our guide to the best phones currently on the market.
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