Tesla Creates New Sentry Mode Feature To Increase Security, Accessible Through Mobile!

Tesla's new feature, Sentry Mode can increase car security and can be accessed from a cellphone. (photo: doc. unsplash)

JAKARTA - The latest software update for Tesla vehicles brings a new feature called Sentry Mode Live Camera Access. The feature allows users to view a live camera feed of their car environment on their phone, and gives them peace of mind that their car is safe.

This new feature is an improvement to Sentry Mode, which allows the onboard camera to keep an eye on the car's surroundings when it's parked and sends alerts when it detects a threat.

When Sentry Mode detects something suspicious nearby, it automatically starts recording video and activates the alarm system as well. Guard Mode can also be activated remotely using the companion phone app. The camera is always on, but only saves footage if there is a serious threat. There have been several instances in the past where Sentry Mode has thwarted theft attempts and allowed users to track their cars.

With the latest Tesla software update, Sentry Mode just got even better. The update (version 2021.36.8) adds Sentry Mode Love Camera Access and the ability to remotely view a live view of the car's environment using the mobile app.

As a security measure, Tesla says that live feeds are end-to-end encrypted, meaning only users can view them. In simple terms, end-to-end encryption ensures that data is encrypted at its origin and can only be decrypted at its destination, stopping anyone from trying to read the data halfway.

Apps like WhatsApp rely on it to make high claims about privacy, and it is generally considered the most secure communication protocol that can currently be used in consumer products.

To enable Tesla's new Sentry Mode Live Camera Access, users must follow this path on the mobile app: Controls > Safety & Security. Once enabled, users will be able to access the live camera feed and ensure that their car is parked safely.

The feature, however, is currently only exclusive to iOS apps running version 4.2.1 or later, and there's no official word on when the feature will arrive in Tesla's mobile app for Android devices. The feature first appeared as a rumor last year.

There is also another caveat. The new Sentry Mode Direct Access tool is only available to Tesla car owners with a Premium Connectivity subscription. It's priced at $9.99 per month and can be purchased using the mobile app or by accessing one's Tesla account on the web.

This service allows users to access exclusive features such as satellite view maps, live traffic visualization, music streaming, internet browser, video streaming, and karaoke. Lastly, Tesla CEO Elon Musk also thinks the new Sentry Mode Live Camera Access feature is also good for practical jokes. Of course, not all of Tesla's camera features are received with open arms, as experts have previously expressed concern over monitoring too many in-car cameras.