Lexus today announced that CarPlay and Android Auto will be standard features in its new 2020 Lexus RX in the United States, marking the first time that either software platform is available in the luxury crossover SUV.
CarPlay and Android Auto will be accessible through an 8-inch touchscreen display that is standard in all models of the 2020 Lexus RX. A larger 12.3-inch split-screen touchscreen is available as an upgrade option. CarPlay appears to be wired, so the iPhone will have to be connected with a Lightning to USB cable.
The new RX will enter production in the third quarter of 2019, according to Lexus. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
CarPlay provides convenient access to frequently used iPhone apps such as Phone, Messages, Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, Apple Music, and Spotify directly from the dashboard. The platform was introduced in 2014 and is now available in over 500 vehicle models in the United States, according to Apple.
Tuesday February 3, 2026 7:47 am PST by Joe Rossignol
While the iOS 26.3 Release Candidate is now available ahead of a public release, the first iOS 26.4 beta is likely still at least a week away. Following beta testing, iOS 26.4 will likely be released to the general public in March or April.
Below, we have recapped known or rumored iOS 26.3 and iOS 26.4 features so far.
iOS 26.3
iPhone to Android Transfer Tool
iOS 26.3 makes it easier...
Tuesday February 3, 2026 12:45 pm PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple recently acquired Israeli startup Q.ai for close to $2 billion, according to Financial Times sources. That would make this Apple's second-biggest acquisition ever, after it paid $3 billion for the popular headphone maker Beats in 2014.
This is also the largest known Apple acquisition since the company purchased Intel's smartphone modem business and patents for $1 billion in 2019....
Thursday February 5, 2026 12:54 pm PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple turns 50 this year, and its CEO Tim Cook has promised to celebrate the milestone. The big day falls on April 1, 2026.
"I've been unusually reflective lately about Apple because we have been working on what do we do to mark this moment," Cook told employees today, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. "When you really stop and pause and think about the last 50 years, it makes your heart ...
Wednesday February 4, 2026 12:29 pm PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple on Tuesday previewed 12 new shows and films that will be premiering on the Apple TV streaming service throughout 2026.
The new series:
Imperfect Women — March 18, 2026
Margo's Got Money Troubles — April 15, 2026
Widow's Bay — April 29, 2026
Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed — May 20, 2026
Cape Fear — June 5, 2026
Lucky — July 15, 2026
The new films:
Eternity — ...
Wednesday February 4, 2026 7:44 am PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple today began selling certified refurbished iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max models on its online store in the U.S., with prices discounted by 12% to 22% compared to Apple's current or former pricing for the devices.
Here were Apple's starting prices when the devices launched in September 2024:
iPhone 16: $799
iPhone 16 Plus: $899
iPhone 16 Pro:...
Many automakers systems are better without CarPlay, mainly in the luxury market. Audi’s MMI is extremely handicapped when CarPlay is enabled, for instance.
Until CarPlay/Automakers can take full advantage of both cockpit and center-stack LCD’s, CarPlay is just an inconvenience on vehicles with ConnectedDrive, MBUX, MMI, and Enform.
I feel it's more about ease-of-use than anything else. I want a system that's functional, fast, and keeps my eyes on the road. Both Apple and Google have achieved this at a level FAR higher any automaker. And it makes sense that they did.
Frankly, if I was running a car company, I would get rid of my entire infotainment division, put in a simple touchscreen, and require the owner to bring their smartphone for NAV, music, etc.
The front grill on Lexus is something to behold. :p More grill than hood. It rivals the Tesla Model 3 for weirdness. :D
Agreed. The Lexus grills alone are enough for me to look elsewhere for my next ride. The latest Acura RDX grill is more my speed. Just waiting for Wireless CarPlay to drop!
Many automakers systems are better without CarPlay, mainly in the luxury market. Audi’s MMI is extremely handicapped when CarPlay is enabled, for instance.
Until CarPlay/Automakers can take full advantage of both cockpit and center-stack LCD’s, CarPlay is just an inconvenience on vehicles with ConnectedDrive, MBUX, MMI, and Enform.
It sounds like it's their fault for poorly implementing it then. FCA's Uconnect has a fantastic, essentially seamless implementation where you're always one click away from being in, or out of CarPlay.
The front grill on Lexus is something to behold. :p More grill than hood. It rivals the Tesla Model 3 for weirdness. :D
