Tesla Phone (Model Pi): Release Date, Price & Spec Rumours

Rumours have been circulating for years about Elon Musk’s Tesla company potentially creating a smartphone dubbed the Model Pi.

However, a company already using the Tesla name and producing phones and other tech products complicates the situation. These products are not high-end like what Elon Musk might create, and they are not available in the UK or US, with the company mainly operating in Eastern Europe.

The company’s FAQ clarifies that they do not make cars like Tesla Inc., but instead focus on consumer electronics and household appliances inspired by Nikola Tesla’s technology.

So, is there any truth to the speculation that Tesla Inc. will be venturing into mobile devices? Here’s what we know so far.

Has Tesla already launched a phone?

Despite videos circulating on platforms like YouTube and TikTok claiming that Tesla has released a $100 phone, there is no evidence to support these claims. Most likely, these videos are clickbait from AI-powered websites aiming to generate revenue.

A visit to the official Tesla website does not mention any news about the alleged phone, casting doubt on the validity of these rumors. Additionally, there is no confirmation from Elon Musk on his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter).

Reports claiming that Tesla has confirmed the imminent release of a phone also lack official backing, with images used often being concepts from designers rather than actual products.

While there is a smartphone brand called Tesla that produces phones among other gadgets, it is not associated with Elon Musk’s company. The brand focuses on consumer electronics and household appliances, distancing itself from Tesla Inc.’s mission of sustainable energy.

What has Elon Musk said about Tesla making a phone?

Elon Musk has previously referred to smartphones as “yesterday’s technology” and instead highlighted advancements in Neuralinks, which involve chips implanted in the brain to control devices using electrical impulses.

Although Musk’s company Neuralink Corporation is working on this technology, the idea of implanting chips in the brain for device control is still far from realization. Despite this, there are hints that Musk may be exploring the idea of developing a phone in the future.

In light of the speculation (originating from Musk himself) that Apple was considering removing Twitter from the App Store, the social network’s new owner hinted at the possibility of creating his own phone if necessary.

More recent comments from Musk, as reported by The Standard, mentioned his thoughts on Tesla and a potential phone during his political campaign for Trump.

“That’s a lot of work. The idea of making a phone makes me want to die,” Elon said. “But if we have to make a phone, we will, but we will aspire not to make a phone.”

Not exactly a glowing endorsement. This sentiment echoes a previous quote from Musk at a New York Times event in November 2023, where he stated, “if there’s an essential need to make a phone, I’ll make a phone, but I’ve got a lot of fish to fry.”

These thoughts were reiterated on a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, where Musk expressed reluctance towards making a phone unless Apple and Google Android engaged in harmful practices.

While the possibility of Tesla unveiling a phone exists, Elon Musk doesn’t seem overly enthusiastic about generating marketing buzz.

What features and specs could we see in the Tesla Model Pi?

Hold onto your hats for this. With the Tesla ‘Model Pi’ sparking urban legend rumors, speculation about potential features for Tesla’s debut phone has reached intriguing levels.

Design

Concept artist Antonio De Rosa has envisioned potential design choices for Tesla, though these concepts are purely speculative and not based on concrete schematics.

Solar Power

The most realistic rumor suggests Tesla might integrate solar panels into the device for eco-friendly recharging without relying on electrical sources. This aligns with Tesla’s environmentally conscious brand and existing solar technology.

However, the feasibility of solar charging sustaining a phone’s battery throughout the day, especially when the phone is often in a pocket or bag, remains a question.

Additionally, reports indicate the Model Pi could integrate closely with Tesla cars, offering enhanced control over settings and features while on the move.

Starlink Support

On a more imaginative note, rumors suggest the Model Pi will utilize Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite-based broadband service. This technology aims to provide coverage in areas where 5G signals may not reach.

Satellite connectivity has appeared in mainstream phones like the iPhone 14 series and Huawei Mate 50 Pro, primarily for emergency communications when regular signals are unavailable. Fans hope for a more advanced implementation with Starlink integration.

Neuralink

Enthusiasts speculate that the Model Pi could be compatible with Neuralink’s Brain-Machine-Interface chips, enabling users to control devices through thoughts. While intriguing, the concept of a mind-controlled phone raises practical concerns based on current voice assistant struggles.

Mars Attacks!

The most outlandish rumor suggests the Model Pi could operate on Mars using Starlink technology. While ambitious, users may prefer improved signals in local areas over extraterrestrial connectivity.

How much would the Tesla Model Pi cost?

Speculating on the cost of the Model Pi is challenging. If it incorporates half the rumored features, it could be positioned at the higher end of the market. However, without concrete evidence of the phone’s existence, any price estimation remains speculative.

Disregard YouTube videos claiming a $100 price tag. For affordable devices currently available, explore our guide to the best phones.