Tesla Pi Phone: Unpacking the Viral $789 Rumor and Musk’s Denial

A viral claim about a new Tesla smartphone is sweeping social media. Posts allege Elon Musk has announced a “Model Pi” phone with revolutionary features. The product is supposedly priced at $789 and promises free global internet.

However, these posts are not based on fact. Major news agencies have not reported any such product launch. The story appears to be a recurring online myth.

Anatomy of a Viral Rumor

The latest wave of speculation gained traction in late September 2025. A Facebook post from a page called “Trend Fuel” claimed an official announcement was made. It featured an edited image of Musk holding a sleek, unnamed device.

According to a report by Snopes, the post declared the phone would “change the entire smartphone game.” It listed features like solar charging and Neuralink integration. These claims were copied and spread across multiple platforms.

No press release or official statement from Tesla or SpaceX supported these assertions. The story relied entirely on user-generated content and website clickbait.

Elon Musk Sets the Record Straight

Elon Musk has directly addressed the persistent rumors. During an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, the topic of a Tesla phone was raised. Musk provided a clear and definitive answer.

“No, we are not doing a phone,” Musk stated, as reported by Reuters. He added that his company’s focus remains on sustainable energy and artificial intelligence. He said a phone would only be considered if platforms like Apple or Google blocked Tesla apps.

This direct denial from the source should settle the debate. Tesla’s current product roadmap does not include consumer electronics like smartphones.

The Grain of Truth in the Rumor

While the Pi Phone is fake, the concept of satellite connectivity is very real. SpaceX, another Musk-led company, is aggressively expanding its Starlink satellite internet service. A “Direct to Cell” initiative is actively in development.

This technology aims to allow standard smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites. The goal is to provide basic connectivity in remote areas without cellular coverage. Partnerships with major telecom providers are already underway.

This real-world project likely fuels the fantastical phone rumors. The conflation of Tesla’s brand with SpaceX’s technological progress creates a fertile ground for misinformation.

The Tesla Pi Phone remains a compelling internet myth. It captures the public’s imagination about Musk’s companies pushing boundaries. For now, consumers should look to SpaceX’s actual Starlink developments for the next leap in connectivity.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: Is Tesla actually making a phone called the Model Pi?

No, Tesla is not developing a smartphone. Elon Musk has publicly denied these rumors. The “Tesla Pi Phone” is an internet hoax with no basis in fact.

Q2: Where did the rumor about a $789 Tesla phone start?

The rumor frequently resurfaces on social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). It often originates from pages that profit from viral clickbait and fabricated stories.

Q3: What is the real technology behind these rumors?

The real technology is SpaceX’s Starlink “Direct to Cell” service. This aims to enable satellite messaging and calling on existing smartphones, not a new Tesla-branded device.

Q4: Has any reputable news source confirmed the Tesla phone?

No. Outlets like Reuters and the Associated Press have not reported on a Tesla phone launch. All claims trace back to unverified social media posts and dubious websites.

Q5: Did Elon Musk ever comment on the Tesla phone speculation?

Yes. Musk explicitly stated, “No, we are not doing a phone,” during an interview. He confirmed Tesla’s focus is elsewhere unless forced into the market by competitors.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press, Snopes