Musk Suggests Tesla's FSD Might Permit Limited Phone Use; Authorities Urge Caution

Elon Musk has hinted that Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software could allow brief phone use under certain conditions.

On a recent day, Musk responded to an inquiry on social media about FSD v14.2, noting that phone usage might be possible depending on the surrounding traffic situation.

However, the legality of this practice remains troubling, as using a handheld device while driving is prohibited across all states.

FSD Technology Still Demands Driver Focus

No state laws currently permit handset use when employing advanced driving aids like Tesla's FSD. Despite the rise of semi-autonomous technologies, regulations have yet to evolve significantly.

FSD isn't classified as a fully self-driving system according to the Society of Automotive Engineers' criteria, with an emphasis that drivers must remain vigilant.

Law Enforcement Stance Unyielding

Representatives from Arizona, New York, and Illinois reiterated that current laws do not provide exceptions for systems such as Tesla's FSD, insisting phone use while driving remains illegal.

Exceptions are mostly limited to emergencies, like contacting 911, state police comments suggest.

A response was not obtained from Tesla regarding these developments.

User Concerns with Supervised FSD Updates

Recent FSD updates have prompted divided opinions among Tesla users, particularly as the company integrates features from its experimental robotaxi service in Austin, Texas.

Tesla's FSD systems currently include mechanisms to alert drivers and can suspend FSD functions if persistent distractions are detected.

Online users often disclose their irritation with these monitoring features.

Legal and Safety Scrutiny Continues

A federal investigation into Tesla's FSD and Autopilot began as reports surfaced alleging violations of traffic laws, including running red lights.

Despite this, some drivers place great confidence in the technology, disregarding certain legalities.

Everyday Experiences with FSD

For example, Ring CEO Jamie Siminoff admits to routine email checks during his commutes in a Tesla Model Y, although this occasionally results in traffic citations.

Familiarity with explaining FSD to skeptical officers is part of some users' experiences—though such explanations don't always avert tickets.

In a testing attempt, Business Insider's reporter observed FSD's reaction to phone use: the car issued alerts but maintained its driving function.