Polestar is demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement with a significant over-the-air (OTA) update for the Polestar 3, its flagship electric SUV. This ninth software update since the vehicle’s launch in June 2024 brings new features, enhanced software stability, and, remarkably, a complimentary hardware upgrade for existing customers.
The latest OTA update introduces highly anticipated features like walk-away locking and digital key functionality for selected devices. Polestar digital key allows drivers to unlock, lock, and even start their vehicle using their smartphone, eliminating the need to fumble for keys. This feature offers seamless convenience and can be shared across different mobile platforms.
“With our over-the-air updates, we can continue to make our cars better over time,” says Michael Lohscheller, Polestar CEO. “Our customers asked for digital key functionality, and so we delivered. We’ll continue to add value for our customers over the lifetime of their cars.”
Beyond new applications and features, Polestar’s OTA updates also encompass improvements to driving attributes and active safety systems. The Polestar 3’s centralised core computing system provides a robust platform for these comprehensive updates.
Perhaps the most striking announcement is the upgrade to the Polestar 3’s processing power. Model year 2026 vehicles will be equipped with the next-generation NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin processor, a significant leap from the current NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Xavier. Crucially, Polestar is extending this hardware upgrade to all existing Polestar 3 owners, free of charge.
“Polestar 3, the first software-defined vehicle from Europe, gets even more brain power,” Lohscheller continues. “The ability to upgrade the hardware of our cars when new technologies become available is the perfect demonstration of our commitment to deliver the very best ownership experience. With the Orin processor upgrade, the already outstanding Polestar 3 gets even better.”
This complimentary hardware swap will be carried out at authorised Polestar service centres. Customers will be contacted when the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin processor is ready for installation. This proactive approach underscores Polestar’s dedication to keeping its customers at the forefront of automotive technology.
The enhanced processing power of the Orin chip will unlock further potential for the Polestar 3, enabling more sophisticated features and improved performance in the future.7 It also reinforces Polestar’s position as a leader in software-defined vehicles, where continuous improvement and feature enhancements are delivered seamlessly over the air.
In addition to the software and hardware advancements, Polestar is also embracing the future of in-car entertainment. The company, alongside Volvo, will be among the first to launch Google’s Car Ready Mobile Apps programme. This initiative will bring a wider range of large-screen optimised mobile applications to car displays. Polestar drivers will soon be able to enjoy popular apps like Farm Heroes Saga and F1 TV while parked. These apps are already available on the Google Play Store for Polestar 2, with Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 support planned for later this year. This move will significantly enhance the in-car experience, offering more entertainment and utility options for drivers and passengers.
Polestar’s commitment to its customers is evident in its continuous development and improvement of its vehicles. The latest OTA update and the complimentary hardware upgrade for the Polestar 3 exemplify this commitment, ensuring that Polestar owners enjoy a constantly evolving and enhanced driving experience. The company’s focus on software updates and hardware upgrades sets a new standard in the automotive industry, demonstrating a long-term vision for its vehicles and a dedication to customer satisfaction. With these advancements, Polestar is solidifying its position as a key player in the electric vehicle market, offering cutting-edge technology and a truly connected driving experience.
For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of the latest software releases, Polestar has provided detailed release notes for each model:
