Tesla has rolled out a software update featuring visuals inspired by the upcoming film Tron: Ares, transforming vehicle displays into glowing light cycles. While some drivers appreciate the sci-fi theme, many express frustration over the lack of an opt-out option, viewing it as an unwanted advertisement. The update highlights an unexpected partnership between Tesla and Disney amid past tensions.
Tesla announced the Tron: Ares update this week, stating in a social media post, “The grid has expanded to your Tesla — Tron: Ares update rolling out now.” The feature adds Tron-esque visuals to the in-vehicle display, allowing drivers to engage with light cycle-style graphics. Published reports from October 10, 2025, indicate the rollout began around that time, with coverage intensifying by October 11.
Driver reactions have been mixed but predominantly negative, particularly on forums like r/TeslaLounge. One comment captured the sentiment: “Stop D—-ing Around,” reflecting irritation at the mandatory inclusion. Critics compare the update to Apple's 2014 decision to automatically add U2's album Songs of Innocence to iTunes accounts without consent, which sparked similar backlash over unsolicited promotions. As InsideHook noted, “This update isn’t the only way Tesla has embraced the new film,” pointing to the Tron: Ares premiere that included AI-generated content from Elon Musk’s Grok and a demo of his Optimus robot.
The partnership between Tesla and Disney surprises some, given Elon Musk’s previous criticisms of Disney. Electrek’s Fred Lambert highlighted this anomaly, noting it contrasts with Musk’s actions toward the company. Slate reviewer Sam Adams described the film as “Pro-A.I. Propaganda” in a piece titled “The New Tron Movie Is Pro-A.I. Propaganda,” linking it to the promotional elements. While the update offers fun visuals for fans, the core issue remains the absence of choice—most vehicle updates enhance functionality, but this one prioritizes movie promotion without an opt-out, fueling debates on native advertising in infotainment systems.
