Tesla Autos to Adopt 'Grok' Activation Phrase for Artificial Intelligence, According to Musk's Confirmation
Tesla's Grok AI Assistant to Support Hands-Free Activation with "Hey, Grok"
Tesla is set to introduce a new feature for its Grok AI assistant, allowing activation via the wake word "Hey, Grok". This update is expected to arrive with the 2025.26 software update, scheduled for mid to late July 2025.
Currently, activating Grok requires a long press on the voice command button. However, the hands-free wake-up feature will significantly improve usability, especially during Full Self-Driving (FSD) when drivers want minimal steering wheel interaction.
At present, the wake word feature is focused on "Hey, Grok" only. Elon Musk and Tesla have not publicly mentioned adding alternative or customizable wake words yet.
The initial rollout of Grok and the "Hey Grok" wake word is for AMD Ryzen-based Tesla models, initially limited to the U.S., with possible future expansion hinted but no firm date.
Tesla's Grok AI assistant does not currently have direct control of vehicle functions, with these still handled by the older voice system.
The 2025.26 software update also includes several other enhancements, with Grok 4, the latest version of xAI's conversational AI, now powering voice interactions inside Tesla vehicles.
Users can customize Grok's voice and personality options, ranging from Storyteller to Unhinged. Tesla is also open to unique and creative suggestions for additional wake words for its Grok AI assistant, beyond "Hey Grok".
Some potential additional wake words for Tesla's Grok AI assistant include "OK Grok", "Engage Warp Drive", and "Ready to Grok". Feel free to share your ideas in the comments section.
Grok 4 is expected to become a central part of the in-car user experience in Tesla vehicles. The wake word feature for Tesla's Grok AI assistant is an addition to the system, not a replacement.
Tesla's official support page for Grok confirms hands-free voice interaction with the AI companion. The wake word feature for Tesla's Grok AI assistant has not been given a specific release date yet.
As the rollout of Grok 4 with software version 2025.26 indicates, the wake word feature may not be far off. The wake word for Tesla's Grok AI assistant, as suggested on X, is expected to be "Hey Grok".
Stay tuned for more updates on Tesla's Grok AI assistant and its exciting new features.
- Tesla is exploring the possibility of extending the wake word options for its Grok AI assistant, considering suggestions like "OK Grok", "Engage Warp Drive", and "Ready to Grok".
- With the advent of Grok 4, powered by xAI's conversational AI, the technology industry is set to significantly impact the automotive and transportation sectors, as Tesla vehicles continue to blend advancements in finance and technology.
