Who has the Lexion infotainment system?
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2019
Posts: 330
Likes: 65
From: TX
Geez.. It's not that serious. Different options and price points are good for consumers. Personally, I'm not dropping almost $800 for a screen and car play.. hard to justify that when I hardly drive these days and might be changing cars soon. Happy New Years to everybody.
Pit Crew
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 168
Likes: 53
From: NZ
Contact Lexion Automotive on facebook and ask them that you do not have a western union account and if they can open up a paypal to pay thru there. Lexion was kind enough to open Paypal thru their website for me to purchase. Now, as for customer service... that is a tough one to ask because as I said on previous post, it seems like a one man operation and the level of response fluctuates. This is probably my second or third week that Lexion has not responded to my questions yet. I believe Lexion is just one of the satellite locations that are trying to distribute these head-units worldwide. The primary companies responsible for building these unites would be HEX Tech - Fun, Binary - Lexus Premium Solution (Esishuo) which is the same as Shenzhen Binary Technology Co. LTD, or Carsyso. You can ask these primary companies but they will not sell you the unit as they can't (Trust me, I've went that route before). If you want to see more of their videos they posted, they are available on youtube.
Carsyso - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYK...4bX386w/videos
HEX Tech - Fun - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnm...9lt3G2Q/videos
Obviously I've done quite a bit of homework before making the purchase decision.
I've gathered informations between Beatsonic (which I owned), 4x4 Canada, Grom VLine V2, and made a conclusion to take a stab at Lexion even though there aren't many reviews out there. However, the SOC (system on chip) used is plenty powerful because the have been used on Android TV Boxs and HardKernel products. Beatsonic is good but has some problems with Phone calls. People hear themselves echo when speaking to me on phone. However, their customer response makes up for it. 4x4 Canada has integrated unit behind the LCD (Lexion is separate) which I can imagine overheating issue over time. Grom Audio is a good company which I have owned their Bluetooth line on my previous car which was a 2004 Acura TSX and their customer support was also great. But seeing reviews online about the issue of vertical lines presented on the LCD when backing up and or navigating something which doesn't for no apparent reason, has ticked me off. Yes, it can be faulty wire harness and or can be fixed in future firmware, but they had a V1 Line previously. That should have been refined by the next iteration which is V2.
It all boils down to preference. If you want to have a simple android auto and Carplay on your Lexus and maintain a "factory" look where no one knows its been installed, Beatsonic or Grom Audio is the way to go. Beatsonic for simplicity but both android and Carplay needs to be plugged, Grom Audio if you want that extra usability.
If you want that widescreen that you don't have in your vehicle and specs there are currently up to date in todays standards, Lexion is the way to go.
In the end, it is a Gamble, and heck, we all took a gamble as Lexion Claims that they have sold quite a lot (20 +) units and yet no video or written review from any of the buyers.
I'm an android guy and all of Lexion, Carsyso and HEX-Tech only showcased Carplay which I was a bit disappointed. If you are saying that it is apple Carplay and android approved, showcase both at least. I asked Lexion to make a video of the android auto side, and he linked me to a video of only the android interface which was the home screen. Specifically told him "android auto" but was prompt with a response saying that I clearly don't know how to decipher android and android auto. As my head was boiling inside me and a couple of posts I've made on the 2015 NX vendors forum, one user explained that it could be a misunderstanding as Lexion is a Korean company in Korea, so clearly English was not the primary language. Setting that aside, you still need to plug in your android phone for android auto to work. Carplay is wireless.
For Android people like me, if you want wireless android auto on your unit, there is a product out there that is a prototype for now, that plugs directly to the USB and make android auto work wirelessly. It is called AAWireless. Idea is great and the person who built it was an active user from the XDA Developers website. He also created apps for android users and has done fairly well. Downside to this is that it is posted in an Indiegogo funding page. Another gamble, but nonetheless, I took the plunge again and helped contribute so I can get the unit hopefully by March 2021 or perhaps later.
Long post, but hope you learn a bit or two more. Any other questions, feel free to ask and I will try to help answer them. Funny thing that I am on an IS forum and I don't own an IS but an NX.
Carsyso - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYK...4bX386w/videos
HEX Tech - Fun - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnm...9lt3G2Q/videos
Obviously I've done quite a bit of homework before making the purchase decision.
I've gathered informations between Beatsonic (which I owned), 4x4 Canada, Grom VLine V2, and made a conclusion to take a stab at Lexion even though there aren't many reviews out there. However, the SOC (system on chip) used is plenty powerful because the have been used on Android TV Boxs and HardKernel products. Beatsonic is good but has some problems with Phone calls. People hear themselves echo when speaking to me on phone. However, their customer response makes up for it. 4x4 Canada has integrated unit behind the LCD (Lexion is separate) which I can imagine overheating issue over time. Grom Audio is a good company which I have owned their Bluetooth line on my previous car which was a 2004 Acura TSX and their customer support was also great. But seeing reviews online about the issue of vertical lines presented on the LCD when backing up and or navigating something which doesn't for no apparent reason, has ticked me off. Yes, it can be faulty wire harness and or can be fixed in future firmware, but they had a V1 Line previously. That should have been refined by the next iteration which is V2.
It all boils down to preference. If you want to have a simple android auto and Carplay on your Lexus and maintain a "factory" look where no one knows its been installed, Beatsonic or Grom Audio is the way to go. Beatsonic for simplicity but both android and Carplay needs to be plugged, Grom Audio if you want that extra usability.
If you want that widescreen that you don't have in your vehicle and specs there are currently up to date in todays standards, Lexion is the way to go.
In the end, it is a Gamble, and heck, we all took a gamble as Lexion Claims that they have sold quite a lot (20 +) units and yet no video or written review from any of the buyers.
I'm an android guy and all of Lexion, Carsyso and HEX-Tech only showcased Carplay which I was a bit disappointed. If you are saying that it is apple Carplay and android approved, showcase both at least. I asked Lexion to make a video of the android auto side, and he linked me to a video of only the android interface which was the home screen. Specifically told him "android auto" but was prompt with a response saying that I clearly don't know how to decipher android and android auto. As my head was boiling inside me and a couple of posts I've made on the 2015 NX vendors forum, one user explained that it could be a misunderstanding as Lexion is a Korean company in Korea, so clearly English was not the primary language. Setting that aside, you still need to plug in your android phone for android auto to work. Carplay is wireless.
For Android people like me, if you want wireless android auto on your unit, there is a product out there that is a prototype for now, that plugs directly to the USB and make android auto work wirelessly. It is called AAWireless. Idea is great and the person who built it was an active user from the XDA Developers website. He also created apps for android users and has done fairly well. Downside to this is that it is posted in an Indiegogo funding page. Another gamble, but nonetheless, I took the plunge again and helped contribute so I can get the unit hopefully by March 2021 or perhaps later.
Long post, but hope you learn a bit or two more. Any other questions, feel free to ask and I will try to help answer them. Funny thing that I am on an IS forum and I don't own an IS but an NX.
Driver
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 56
Likes: 17
From: New York
Driver
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 56
Likes: 17
From: New York
There are some great pictures on page 5 of an earlier thread regarding the Lexion unit, and on 8-13-20
a video by an Australian guy ISDAS that shows how seamless it works. https://www.clublexus.com/forums/cl-...-models-5.html
a video by an Australian guy ISDAS that shows how seamless it works. https://www.clublexus.com/forums/cl-...-models-5.html
Driver
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 56
Likes: 17
From: New York
So, I had done a little research on getting bluetooth to work onto the unit. It technically doesn't need to. From my understanding, Sources say that if any head-unit that is able to do Android Auto or Apple Carplay, it already has bluetooth built in. Reason is because they need bluetooth to access contacts so that you can do incoming and outgoing calls even though its plugged in. Looking at the unit, if you go to stock android User Interface settings, Bluetooth gets greyed out, however, if you access the settings from overlayed interface, under Carplay settings, there is bluetooth highlighted and enabled with a bluetooth name. Now getting it work to enable in the google settings is way out of my hands as I am left confused as to why one settings has one enabled, while the other, left disabled. I have communicated most of the bluetooth companies (via email) being sold on amazon and none of them are compatible with android headunits. Most will say from bluetooth to computer and then android to computer bluetooth.it will work. There is however one dongle that some say will work, but I am not chancing it as it is only available in aliexpress and ebay.
Driver
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 91
Likes: 20
From: CA
So, I had done a little research on getting bluetooth to work onto the unit. It technically doesn't need to. From my understanding, Sources say that if any head-unit that is able to do Android Auto or Apple Carplay, it already has bluetooth built in. Reason is because they need bluetooth to access contacts so that you can do incoming and outgoing calls even though its plugged in. Looking at the unit, if you go to stock android User Interface settings, Bluetooth gets greyed out, however, if you access the settings from overlayed interface, under Carplay settings, there is bluetooth highlighted and enabled with a bluetooth name. Now getting it work to enable in the google settings is way out of my hands as I am left confused as to why one settings has one enabled, while the other, left disabled. I have communicated most of the bluetooth companies (via email) being sold on amazon and none of them are compatible with android headunits. Most will say from bluetooth to computer and then android to computer bluetooth.it will work. There is however one dongle that some say will work, but I am not chancing it as it is only available in aliexpress and ebay.
There is also a hdmi port but I assume that’s output only.
I looked into getting a 4G or 5G modem for this unit but with CarPlay automatically connecting with my phone and using my phone data there is no need for a separate modem. The times I used Android apps I just connect the unit to my phone’s hotspot. But that disconnects CarPlay since WiFi is single channel. It’s easy to reconnect CarPlay just press the voice button on the steering wheel and it connects CarPlay(or Android auto) in a few seconds.
I just discovered you can use two different apps split screen on Android which is pretty cool on the widescreen. I have mainly stuck to google maps on CarPlay on the right and music player on the left. I just received the ergo touchpad so I will be installing that tonight. It will be soo much easier to use. Jog is fine but doesn’t scroll. Touchscreen is just too far to use for long.
Last edited by JKING3; Jan 4, 2021 at 01:54 PM.
Driver
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 56
Likes: 17
From: New York
I’ve also tried a usb 5.0 bluetooth adapter from Amazon and it did not work. Maybe it’s because the USB ports are 2.0 or maybe I got greedy and should have tried bluetooth 4.0? Either way maybe there is bluetooth already in the CarPlay module but it connects using wifi. There are two WiFi antennas that you screw in along with the gps adapter. There are also SD cards with bluetooth built-in maybe I should try one since there is a SD card reader in the unit.
There is also a hdmi port but I assume that’s output only.
I looked into getting a 4G or 5G modem for this unit but with CarPlay automatically connecting with my phone and using my phone data there is no need for a separate modem. The times I used Android apps I just connect the unit to my phone’s hotspot. But that disconnects CarPlay since WiFi is single channel. It’s easy to reconnect CarPlay just press the voice button on the steering wheel and it connects CarPlay(or Android auto) in a few seconds.
I just discovered you can use two different apps split screen on Android which is pretty cool on the widescreen. I have mainly stuck to google maps on CarPlay on the right and music player on the left. I just received the ergo touchpad so I will be installing that tonight. It will be soo much easier to use. Jog is fine but doesn’t scroll. Touchscreen is just too far to use for long.
There is also a hdmi port but I assume that’s output only.
I looked into getting a 4G or 5G modem for this unit but with CarPlay automatically connecting with my phone and using my phone data there is no need for a separate modem. The times I used Android apps I just connect the unit to my phone’s hotspot. But that disconnects CarPlay since WiFi is single channel. It’s easy to reconnect CarPlay just press the voice button on the steering wheel and it connects CarPlay(or Android auto) in a few seconds.
I just discovered you can use two different apps split screen on Android which is pretty cool on the widescreen. I have mainly stuck to google maps on CarPlay on the right and music player on the left. I just received the ergo touchpad so I will be installing that tonight. It will be soo much easier to use. Jog is fine but doesn’t scroll. Touchscreen is just too far to use for long.
Driver
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 91
Likes: 20
From: CA
A screen mod would be hard to pull off but if you are doing it I would love to see it. The solution for me is the ergo touchpad. Works perfectly and will keep my screen fingerprint free. I will look into a different Bluetooth adapter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 20
Likes: 7
From: Virginia
How do you like your touchpad? Does it work well for you and where did you end up putting it? Did you get 49x65mm model?
Driver
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 56
Likes: 17
From: New York
Was wondering, does anybody have the apk of zlink? I apparently accidentally uninstalled mine because I thought I could update to a newer version. I believe the current ones installed on lexion units is version 3.8.11. I tried contacting eric from lexion automotive with no response. Gladly appreciate it.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 20
Likes: 7
From: Virginia
Was wondering, does anybody have the apk of zlink? I apparently accidentally uninstalled mine because I thought I could update to a newer version. I believe the current ones installed on lexion units is version 3.8.11. I tried contacting eric from lexion automotive with no response. Gladly appreciate it.
Advanced
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 723
Likes: 212
From: CA
I printed out instructions from the beginning of this thread: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/cl-...l#post11048181. Eric's communication is terrible. My unit came with no instructions, so I printed out Eric's instructions from the thread.
It looks straightforward and the auto audio shop is very good. I will be using CarPlay.
What is the zlink for? Thanks!
Last edited by Jazzrock; May 12, 2021 at 07:35 PM.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 20
Likes: 7
From: Virginia
My Lexion unit is being installed May 19. Can't wait. Any impressions or suggestions on installation or use would be appreciated.
I printed out instructions from the beginning of this thread: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/cl-...l#post11048181. Eric's communication is terrible. My unit came with no instructions, so I printed out Eric's instructions from the thread.
It looks straightforward and the auto audio shop is very good. I will be using CarPlay.
What is the xlink for? Thanks!
I printed out instructions from the beginning of this thread: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/cl-...l#post11048181. Eric's communication is terrible. My unit came with no instructions, so I printed out Eric's instructions from the thread.
It looks straightforward and the auto audio shop is very good. I will be using CarPlay.
What is the xlink for? Thanks!
I did connect external gps and mic cables but not really using those functions since I use android auto most of the time. My recommendation is to use adhesive tape and attach main unit to the Smart Key module sideways behind the glove compartment. Its the best position for it, gets good ventillation and there is plenty of space there. I also recommend not to try putting screw that hold screen bracket back in place, since plastic clips hold it in place really well. There is a risk of damaging the screen since they are so close to it. My main issue was that wiring harness had wrong connector for backup camera and was not designed for japanese made RC (US version). So I had to wait 2-3 weeks for new harness from Eric and drive without backup camera. After it arrived, I had to take everything apart and reinstall with new harness.
Zlink is the the app that runs wireless/wired Carplay and wired Android Auto with Lexion's firmware. You have to get the apk file pre-installed from factory or ask Eric for the file later (or ask me, haha)....
Hope it helps