Tesla Adds Capability To “Keep Summer Safe,” Skips All The Messy Lasers

The latest software update (2019.16.1) for Tesla’s vehicles comes with the ability to enable Sentry Mode using voice commands and, as a special bonus, it includes a fun plug for a classic scene from Rick and Morty.

The update makes it easier to use Sentry Mode, including the ability to turn it on and off via voice command. The new prompts include a handful in normal prose, with one bonus command from Rick and Morty. The new voice commands for Sentry Mode include:

• Turn Sentry Mode On/Off
• Enable/Disable Sentry Mode
• Keep Tesla Safe
• Keep Summer Safe

Tesla included the ability to use the voice prompt “Keep Summer safe” to activate Sentry Mode, but unfortunately did not include any lasers (well, not that we know of) or active safety measures that can be used when the vehicle is parked. Check out the clip from Rick and Morty below if you aren’t in on the joke.

The update also allows users to opt into turning Sentry Mode on by default. This is a great option for anyone who doesn’t want to have to think about turning the system on every time they park and doesn’t mind the extra battery drain that comes from keeping Sentry Mode activated when the vehicle is parked.

The new persistent setting can be found in settings under Controls -> Safety & Security -> Sentry Mode -> On/Off. Turning Sentry Mode on by default also allows owners to manually disable Sentry Mode at a few select locations like Home, Work, or other favorite locations. That’s helpful for locations where the car is garaged or otherwise secured. Though, it may be worth keeping the system enabled there as well because who knows what could happen, right?

Finally, Tesla added a shortcut button to the upper right menu tray that makes it easy to enable or disable Sentry Mode at the touch of a button. Check out the video at the top for a walkthrough of the new features.

If you want to take advantage of my Tesla referral link to get 5,000 miles of free Supercharging on a Tesla Model S, Model X, or Model 3, here’s the link: http://ts.la/kyle623 (if someone else helped you, please use their code instead of mine).