Rivian Rolls Out RivianOS 2 Update with Unreal Engine 5 for R1 and R2 Models

Rivian rolled out the RivianOS 2 infotainment system update on September 5 to eligible R1 and R2 vehicles. This marks the largest over-the-air software upgrade since the initial launch of the R1 series and represents Rivian’s first effort to unify all currently sold models onto a single software technology stack. RivianOS 2 introduces a redesigned user interface, relocating quick-control buttons and the media player to the left and right edges of the screen. The vertical status bar has been reimagined for easier access to core vehicle functions. The infotainment settings menu has been restructured to include context-aware controls that dynamically adjust based on usage scenarios, along with a global search feature. Second-generation R1 and R2 models leverage Unreal Engine 5 to render real-time 3D scenes of the vehicle and its surroundings, while first-generation R1 vehicles continue using Unreal Engine 4 due to hardware limitations. The navigation system now features “Real-Time Route Alerts,” displaying police activity and speed camera information via Google Maps, sourced from local governments, third-party providers, and community contributions. On the AI front, second-generation R1 and R2 models adopt a “hybrid edge computing approach,” enabling certain AI tasks to be processed locally to reduce latency. All vehicles allow users to toggle wake-word functionality on or off, restrict location data sharing, and manage saved driver profile information. The paid subscription service Rivian Connect+ now includes a standalone weather app (offering real-time conditions, air quality data, and a 10-day forecast) and the Mobile Live Trips app (enabling trip planning and tracking via smartphone). Pricing is $14.99 per month or $149.99 annually.