Software

Rivian has built a reputation for doing things differently. Every fall we’ve seen the brand lean into Halloween fun with quirky software tricks and seasonal features that make the R1T and R1S feel alive. But this year, maybe it’s time to skip the pumpkins, ghosts, and gimmicks. What Rivian really needs to deliver are the features it has already promised. Back in December 2024, I wrote about Rivian’s packed 2025 software roadmap, a list of updates that the company publicly…

Rivian’s 2025.26 update is beginning early testing and looks to be a well-rounded release with a mix of performance upgrades, tech improvements, and Gen 2-exclusive enhancements. Both generations see steering refinements and smoother in-car experiences, while Gen 2 drivers get a big step forward in Driver Assistance. 2025.26 is still in early testing, but if things go smoothly, a wider rollout should follow in the coming weeks. See full release notes

Rivian isn’t just building trucks and SUVs anymore, it’s quietly becoming the software company behind the next wave of EVs. While the hardware is sleek, the real story is what’s running underneath. With Gen 2, Rivian reduced the number of computers in each vehicle from 17 to 7 using a zonal architecture. This setup isn’t just more efficient, it’s designed for flexibility. Each section of the vehicle can be updated or modified through software, giving Rivian full control to innovate…

It feels like something changed with Rivian’s HVAC behavior since 2025.22 rolled out. Living in Florida, where humidity is always brutal, I’m used to cranking the system to “Lo” and full blast when I first get in my R1S or R1T. Normally, the air gets icy fast, making the cabin bearable within a minute or two. Lately, though, the system seems to just push outside-temperature air, almost like it’s just a fan running, before finally kicking in the compressor and…