All they're doing is blowing smoke... They apparently do not wish to commit any definitive answers to any inquiries regarding AA retrofits. I think that it's a waste of time to constantly contact Lexus and berate them for their non-action on this issue. It is regretfully non productive. If and when Lexus decides that they will provide information, that is when you'll read it.
This, IMO, is beating a dead horse. I also believe that for whatever reason Lexus is reluctant to upgrade the thousands of 2019 MY ES cars that could be retrofitted with the software.
And apparently, after reading the Espana web site, it is a minor software install that takes little time to complete. And they are doing it for free to adhere to their policy of Omotenashi...
All a bunch of BS IMO... I am greatly disappointed not because I won't get AA installed as I probably wouldn't use it frequently or at all, but in the way that Lexus has treated its customers and loyal owners. To me this is a lesson learned.

 

Sucks, anyone know the difference in pt numbers for the other country makes of the navigation system? HW is the only physical limitation, while everything else is usually just a choice.

 

Anyone have any new info on possible upgrades of Android Auto to MY 2019 ES vehicles? Some info stated April of 2020.

 

Hi

Is Android Carplay better than the native LEXUS system on a 2018 LS500. I can reply to text, search contacts and use voice assist navigation now, so wonding is paying for an upgrade is worth it?

Thanks

 

I think it is a personal preference, and I personally enjoy Android Auto much more than the Lexus system. You still need the Lexus system on the LS500 for climate control and stuff, but Android is better for voice texting and navigation. Making calls is the same. Android will let you use other apps too, though, like Pandora or Spotify, which I also enjoy.

 

As 95 stated, it's a personal preference as to usefulness. Additionally, Lexus has not indicated whether there would be a charge for the AA software update if it even occurs.

 

There is a charge for the 2018 LS500 update

 

Thanks for the update as I didn't know there was a charge at all...

 

No update, and I'm sure the COVID-Crisis will be reason to further delay the possible early summer update that was hinted at late last year to other Non US Domestic regions.

Lexus could roll this out with a USB update from their website like so many manufacters have done for years. My 2016 Genesis only came with CarPlay and all I did was download the update from their website, put it on USB and plugged it into the radio, 15 mins later I had Android Auto. My 2015 Ford has had Sync 2 updates I've performed that way. And our 2017 Camry has had base Entune updates that were downloaded from the website to USB and updated by me in the driveway. Lexus thinks they're adding an elevated level of service by most likely requiring it to be a $250 service visit.

With the current crisis of car sales, they'd probably be smart to offer pull forwards on every lease they have outstanding just to move new leases. I keep hoping I'll get that letter so I can move to a 2020 ESh. Cheaper to write off $5k losses on really early pull forwards than it is to have 1000's of cars sitting on lots and in Kentucky. It would also put people back to work at the plant.
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