By Rivian has rolled out its RivianOS 2 software update to the R1S and R1T, giving older vehicles a refreshed in-car experience without requiring new hardware. The over-the-air update brings the latest software platform from the newer R2 to both first- and second-generation R1 vehicles.
The update arrives through software version 2026.31. Rivian says it has rebuilt the R1 experience with a faster interface, updated graphics, and a redesigned layout. As a result, R1 owners can access several features that were previously associated with Rivian’s newest vehicles.
RivianOS 2 Comes to the R1 Fleet
The biggest change is the move to RivianOS 2. The software now provides a common foundation across Rivian’s lineup, although some features still depend on the hardware inside each vehicle.
The redesigned interface brings updated controls and a new settings menu. It also adds a universal search function, making it easier for drivers to find vehicle settings and other information.
Furthermore, Rivian has worked to make the system more visually consistent with the R2. Gen 2 R1 vehicles use Unreal Engine 5 for vehicle and environment graphics. Meanwhile, Gen 1 models will continue using Unreal Engine 4 to maintain responsive performance.
New Navigation and Travel Features
Rivian has also expanded the navigation experience. Google Maps and Waze alerts can now provide information about police presence, speed cameras, and other road-related alerts during trips.
In addition, RivianOS 2 introduces a dedicated weather app. Drivers can also make changes to trip routing through the Rivian mobile app, adding more flexibility when plans change during a journey. These updates may seem relatively small individually. However, together they make the R1S and R1T feel considerably more current.
Older Rivian Models Get a New Lease on Life
One of the most important aspects of the update is that Rivian is bringing it to both generations of the R1 platform. Owners therefore do not need to purchase a newer vehicle to receive the redesigned software experience.
The approach follows a broader trend in the EV industry. Over-the-air updates allow automakers to add features and improve existing systems after a vehicle has already reached customers.
Rivian’s move also helps reduce the gap between its older R1 models and the newer R2. The company says RivianOS 2 now provides a unified software stack across the R1 and R2 lineup. This means future software improvements can reach multiple vehicles while still being adapted to their available hardware.
Hardware Still Sets Some Limits
However, software cannot change everything. An over-the-air update cannot add new sensors or install a more powerful computer into an existing vehicle.
Because of these hardware differences, some features will remain exclusive to newer Rivian models. Rivian has also made specific decisions for different R1 generations to balance new functionality with system responsiveness.
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Still, bringing RivianOS 2 to the R1S and R1T shows how much a vehicle’s experience can evolve through software.
Rivian Keeps Its Older EVs Current
The latest update gives R1 owners a more modern interface and several new features without requiring a trip to a dealership. More importantly, it demonstrates Rivian’s intention to keep its existing vehicles evolving alongside its newest models.
The R1S and R1T may not have all the hardware found in the R2, but RivianOS 2 helps close the software gap. As over-the-air updates become increasingly important in the automotive industry, keeping older EVs current could become just as important as launching new models.
