Tesla Appears to be Adding Support for More Streaming Services to Tesla Theater

Tesla appears to be enabling more streaming services in Tesla Theater

Tesla seems to be adding support for additional streaming platforms in Tesla Theater. Many services that are not currently built into Theater now launch in the same chromeless, full-screen browser used by Netflix and YouTube. Visiting a service’s website automatically triggers full-screen mode.

Testing indicates this behavior—first noted by Jason—is not limited to Apple TV and also applies to other major platforms.

The behavior was observed with HBO Max, Paramount+, Peacock, and Apple TV, which makes these services easier to use in a Tesla.

More streaming services

Tesla owners have long been able to watch video through the vehicle’s web browser while parked; the change affects how these sites open.

Previously, the browser’s controls and address bar remained visible until video playback was switched to full screen. Now, for several recognized services, the browser opens directly in a Tesla Theater–style full-screen window.

Confirmed platforms include:

• HBO Max
• Paramount+
• Peacock
• Apple TV
• Disney+
• Plex

This is in addition to the services already offered in Tesla Theater: Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok. The change does not currently include some less popular services such as Tubi, Crunchyroll, and Discovery+, or TV-replacement services like Sling TV and YouTube TV. Those can still be used via the YouTube redirect workaround or by manually switching the player to full screen once playback begins.

Tesla may be making these updates ahead of adding more services to Tesla Theater. For now, bookmarking these sites in the browser provides quick access.

Tesla Theater apps are just websites

Adding another service to Theater is straightforward because Tesla Theater loads each provider in a chromeless browser rather than a native app. Tesla is not creating native apps for Netflix or other services, which means many supported services could be added quickly.

The reason the catalog has not expanded further is unclear. Possible factors include keeping in-vehicle bandwidth usage manageable or securing agreements with streaming providers before including them in Tesla Theater.

Rear screen

Watching on the front display is simple through the browser, but the rear display is trickier because it does not include a browser. However, a workaround exists that lets you watch almost any streaming service on the rear screen.

If more services were added to Tesla Theater, rear passengers would benefit the most by being able to bring up additional platforms more easily, especially for users who may not be aware of the workaround.

Requested features

Given Tesla Theater’s architecture, native apps are not necessary, but the relatively small selection remains surprising. Previously suggested additions include easier access to more streaming services and the ability to pin favorites.

This browser change is a positive step forward; a logical next step would be adding shortcuts within the Tesla Theater app.