Tesla has begun pushing an over-the-air (OTA) update that brings a self-developed audio algorithm to select Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in China, according to Chinese automotive outlet Gasgoo. The update, announced via Tesla's official Weibo account on September 22, converts ordinary two-channel stereo music into a 360-degree surround-sound experience.
The core of the upgrade is Tesla's in-house intelligent audio algorithm, which separates direct sound from ambient sound in a stereo source. Direct sound is routed to the front speakers, while ambient sound is distributed to side and rear speakers to create an immersive effect. Users need to update their vehicle software to version 2026.14.11 or higher to access the feature. On the Model Y L, the function is branded "Immersive Sound X."
Which vehicles are covered
The update covers the Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive and Performance versions produced from September 2023 onward, as well as the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive, Model Y L and Performance All-Wheel Drive versions built from February 2025. For the Model Y L, Tesla has added a center speaker beneath the second-row screen to improve rear-seat audio quality.
Tesla vice president Tao Lin previously said the company's audio system is fully self-developed, from algorithm to acoustic design, layout and tuning. Audio engineers are involved from the early stages of vehicle design, integrating speaker placement with the overall vehicle architecture, according to Gasgoo.
The move reflects Tesla's broader push to differentiate its vehicles through software-defined features in China, where domestic rivals such as BYD, Nio and Xpeng are increasingly competing on in-car technology and acoustic experiences. Tesla's OTA capability allows it to add new functions without hardware changes, a strategy it has used for features ranging from driver assistance to entertainment.
This is not the first time Tesla has used OTA updates to enhance its audio system. The company has previously rolled out improvements to sound quality and added features like karaoke mode in some markets. The new algorithm, however, marks a more significant step in using software to simulate spatial audio without requiring additional hardware on most covered models.
The update is being delivered gradually, with Tesla typically rolling out OTA updates in phases across its fleet in China. Owners can check their vehicle's software version in the settings menu to see when the update becomes available for their car.
