I just got a 2016 GS 350. When I plug in my iPhone through USB, I do not have any audio controls. It will play audio but as you can see the screen is blank and I must use my iPhone to pause, skip ect

my other vehicle a 2013 RX 350 has no problem showing the audio content and cover art through USB. The only apps I use are overcast and Spotify.

Any help is appreciated

 

Don't know what to tell you, I always use BT but for curiosity's sake I connected via USB to see how my 2018 would behave...

 

i think you have to have the songs physically loaded into the phone to use the USB cord? I think if you're streaming and/or using apps other than Apple Music/iTunes to play the songs it won't download the data?

Try switching ports or cable or remove and add your iPhone and see if the car will re-download your phone's data...

Also, why not use BT? Works just as well

 

I have switched cables and USB ports. Also removed and added phone. The same phone with the same apps works great on the '13 RX. Right now I am using BT but I really dislike bluetooth for other reasons.

 

OP: 2 Things, do you have Apple Music installed and could you try switching audio sources while the song is playing and then switch back to USB? But my issue happens once in a blue moon.

Songs do not have to be downloaded, can be streamed.

Not OP, but I like a wired connection for best possible audio quality.

 

Yes I have tried that multiple times. I knew to try that because sometimes I have to do that with my RX that has the older infotainment system.