Rivian has shared details about its latest over-the-air software update 2025.46, which includes new features announced during the recent AI and Autonomy event. The update features a new digital key feature for Gen 2 R1, driving styles, kick turns, settings, and Rivian’s new Universal Hands-Free driving capabilities.
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During the event, Rivian executives, including founder and CEO RJ Scaringe, unveiled the company’s new internally designed silicon chip, which will help power its dedicated autonomy platform. In addition to adding LiDAR to upcoming R2 models, Rivian shared plans to expand its Enhanced Highway Assist ADAS to support Universal Hands-Free Driving, increasing the feature’s availability from 135,000 miles to over 3.5 million miles of road across the U.S. and Canada.
This availability is expected to begin rolling out in early 2026, with the latest software update already including several notable upgrades.
A key release in the year-end software update is Universal Hands-Free Driving, which significantly expands the number of roads on which R1 owners can activate the driving assistance feature. With update 2025.46, Gen 2 drivers can activate Universal Hands-Free on almost any road where lane lines are clearly marked.
However, this is not yet a fully autonomous capability, as Hands-Free cannot slow down or stop at traffic lights or stop signs.
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Rivian is introducing three new Driving Styles for its driver assistance features, including Universal Hands-Free, Highway Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control , and Lane Change on Command. After the update, R1 owners will be able to choose the “spice level” of their autonomous features.
Another major addition is Rivian’s new Digital Key feature for Gen 2 R1 owners. After the 2025.46 update, owners can add their R1S or R1T key to their digital wallet on their iPhone, Apple Watch, Google Pixel, or Samsung devices. Digital Key provides an additional way to easily access your EV and the ability to share keys with family and friends.
Other features in software update 2025.46 include a new way to view the Driver Display for Gen 1 and Gen 2 R1 owners. Gen 2 drivers can switch between the Autonomy view, which shows surrounding lanes and vehicles, and the Maps and Navigation view on the driver display. Gen 1 drivers can switch between the Driver Assistance view, which shows vehicles and objects ahead, and the Maps and Navigation view on the driver display.
Rivian is also introducing exciting new features for R1 Quad owners. Software update 2025.46 includes a new tuning screen from the Rivian Adventure Department (RAD), a team of engineers, software developers, and designers who create and test features that push the boundaries of Rivian vehicles. The RAD Tuner was originally used by teams at Rebelle Rally and Pikes Peak, but is now available to Gen 2 Quad owners, allowing them to tweak beyond Rivian’s factory defaults and tailor the vehicle’s behavior to their preferences and terrain.
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In addition to RAD Tuning, Rivian’s latest software update also includes the ability for Gen 2 Quad drivers to perform Kick Turns, making it easier to maneuver in tight off-road conditions while traveling at speeds below 15 mph (24 km/h). It works by controlling power and tire traction.
