Click to enlarge.
Lexus (NYSE: TM, 7203 T) said today it debuting the first integration of AT&T 5G Network Connectivity in the Lexus lineup. The enhanced version of the Lexus Interface multimedia system will make its debut in the 2026 ES before rolling out to future models in the Lexus lineup.
“We are excited for guests to experience something truly special,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer, Connected Experiences Division. “We’ve made bold updates to Lexus Interface that deliver both function and performance, with every detail meticulously designed to delight, inform and entertain.”**
Quick Glance – Lexus Interface
The latest-generation Lexus interface now includes a configurable home screen, allowing guests to customize their preferred on-screen combination of individual widgets for navigation, drive mode, audio, connected smart device and weather. The selected widgets can be grouped into combinations of two or three, providing access to what matters most. Lexus Interface also offers wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.
A Quick Control Menu has a been added, which is always accessible from the upper right section of the touchscreen. The menu opens to settings for frequently used features, such as connecting to Bluetooth®, adjusting screen brightness, switching from light to dark mode, shortcuts to easily configure Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features. With more than 64 different ambient lighting options within the interior of the 2026 Lexus ES, guests can enhance the mood on any drive with the touch of a button.
Lexus Voice Assistant now offers faster responses to help guests make the most of their driving experience. With a simple “Hey Lexus,” or other conversational prompt like “Hi Lexus” or “Okay Lexus,” the onboard Voice Assistant offers help to adjust the audio volume, channel and music selection; change climate control settings throughout the cabin; get estimated trip range; get the date and time. Voice Assistant can help with basic arithmetic and accessing menu pages within the head unit. Not sure how to connect to Bluetooth®? Simply say “Hey Lexus, how do I connect my phone?” for quick navigation directly to the phone pairing screen. Lexus Interface now offers two Voice Assistant options (male and female), a first for Lexus multimedia.
Next-Level Navigation
For the first time ever, Lexus’ in-cabin multimedia experience is more closely tied to the multi-information display (MID). Native navigation is now full screen in the MID, allowing for maps and turn-by-turn directions to be visible directly behind the steering wheel for added. Cloud-based navigation requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription that provides access to real-time traffic elements, 24/7 live agents for destination assistance.
Drive Recorder
The latest generation Lexus Interface debuts Drive Recorder, a standard feature that provides traditional dash-cam functionality without noticeable in-cabin camera placement. The built-in system is designed to record and save video clips using the vehicle’s external cameras. Drive Recorder saves up to 90 one-minute clips of continuous looping footage, which notes the speed of the vehicle and its location. Guests also have the option to manually record and save up to four clips and up to five incident recordings. Incident recordings are clips that start recording when the G-Sensor is triggered by certain conditions, such as an impact, hard braking or airbag deployment. The sensitivity of triggering conditions can be adjusted based on preference. Playback of Drive Recorder clips is available in the head unit, and clips can also be downloaded to a USB flash drive.
Simplified Charging
The latest generation Lexus Interface also introduces new EV Charge Management features for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) such as the 2026 ES 350e and 500e. Guests can easily monitor and manage charging on the go, directly within the vehicle’s head unit. Guests can use the EV Charge Management to set charging schedules and charge limits, enable an external power supply.
The next-gen Lexus Interface also introduces EV Routing, a planning feature built into native navigation that provides charger Points of Interest (POI) details including the station name, address, hours of operation, charger type (level 1, 2 or 3), charger availability (where available), total number of chargers, and maximum output. Guests can access this information along their route or add a charger before they depart. In addition, the EV Range Map calculates the best route based on the destination and the vehicle’s battery level, suggests charging stations along the way, and estimates the battery percentage at each stop and final destination. Both EV Routing and EV Range Map require an active Drive Connect trial or subscription.
Upgraded Remote Features
The latest generation Lexus Interface integrates “seamlessly” with the Lexus app, offering faster performance. With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, guests can take advantage of their advanced Remote Connect commands to control headlights, hazard lights, trunk access, climate settings and schedule start times through the Lexus app.
The new Lexus Interface also includes enhanced Digital Key functionality, available through an active Remote Connect trial or subscription. Guests can now manage functionality within their compatible smart device’s native digital wallet app, including locking, unlocking, starting and operating their supported Lexus vehicle. Guests can also share and manage Digital Key sharing permissions with up to five additional drivers directly through their digital wallet. Once Digital Key is enabled in the wallet, it will continue to provide access to the vehicle, thanks to near-field communication (NFC) technology, for a period of time even if the device has no battery life.
Optional SiriusXM® with 360L
SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content into a seamless experience, providing drivers and passengers with unparalleled choice, content discovery, and personalized listening. SiriusXM with 360L offers hundreds of expertly curated ad-free music channels across all genres and decades, the must-hear moments in sports, comedy, news and entertainment, plus an extensive library of on-demand content. With a SiriusXM with 360L trial or subscription, listeners can discover something new based on personalized “For You” recommendations, and access related content to explore more of the programming they love. SiriusXM satellite services are available throughout the continental United States and Canada.
Optional Integrated Streaming Now Includes Spotify®
With an active Music Lovers or Wi-Fi Connect trial or subscription,* owners/lessees of the 2026 ES with a Spotify user account can link their account to stream their favorite music, podcasts, and audio-books through Lexus’ available Integrated Streaming, the onboard audio source feature. This subscription-based feature allows users with existing audio streaming service accounts to stream entertainment using the vehicle’s built-in Wi-Fi connection, eliminating the need to use a phone data plan.
*AutoInformed on
**About Toyota Connected
“Based in Plano, Texas, Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) says it was established in 2016 to contribute toward Toyota’s global vision for an intelligent mobile society. TCNA is an independent Toyota company that serves as a software and innovation hub, leveraging big data from vehicles to humanize the driving experience and provide customers secure, seamless and contextual services. Comprised primarily of software engineers and data scientists, TCNA serves as a center of excellence for connected services that elevate the customer experience as well as benefiting dealers, distributors and partners. At the heart of TCNA is Toyota’s belief in human-centered mobility and a fundamental commitment to personal privacy.”
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn.
He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe.
Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap.
AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks.
Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.
Lexus ES to Debut AT&T 5G Network Connectivity in 2026 ES
Click to enlarge.
Lexus (NYSE: TM, 7203 T) said today it debuting the first integration of AT&T 5G Network Connectivity in the Lexus lineup. The enhanced version of the Lexus Interface multimedia system will make its debut in the 2026 ES before rolling out to future models in the Lexus lineup.
“We are excited for guests to experience something truly special,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer, Connected Experiences Division. “We’ve made bold updates to Lexus Interface that deliver both function and performance, with every detail meticulously designed to delight, inform and entertain.”**
Quick Glance – Lexus Interface
The latest-generation Lexus interface now includes a configurable home screen, allowing guests to customize their preferred on-screen combination of individual widgets for navigation, drive mode, audio, connected smart device and weather. The selected widgets can be grouped into combinations of two or three, providing access to what matters most. Lexus Interface also offers wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.
A Quick Control Menu has a been added, which is always accessible from the upper right section of the touchscreen. The menu opens to settings for frequently used features, such as connecting to Bluetooth®, adjusting screen brightness, switching from light to dark mode, shortcuts to easily configure Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features. With more than 64 different ambient lighting options within the interior of the 2026 Lexus ES, guests can enhance the mood on any drive with the touch of a button.
Lexus Voice Assistant now offers faster responses to help guests make the most of their driving experience. With a simple “Hey Lexus,” or other conversational prompt like “Hi Lexus” or “Okay Lexus,” the onboard Voice Assistant offers help to adjust the audio volume, channel and music selection; change climate control settings throughout the cabin; get estimated trip range; get the date and time. Voice Assistant can help with basic arithmetic and accessing menu pages within the head unit. Not sure how to connect to Bluetooth®? Simply say “Hey Lexus, how do I connect my phone?” for quick navigation directly to the phone pairing screen. Lexus Interface now offers two Voice Assistant options (male and female), a first for Lexus multimedia.
Next-Level Navigation
For the first time ever, Lexus’ in-cabin multimedia experience is more closely tied to the multi-information display (MID). Native navigation is now full screen in the MID, allowing for maps and turn-by-turn directions to be visible directly behind the steering wheel for added. Cloud-based navigation requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription that provides access to real-time traffic elements, 24/7 live agents for destination assistance.
Drive Recorder
The latest generation Lexus Interface debuts Drive Recorder, a standard feature that provides traditional dash-cam functionality without noticeable in-cabin camera placement. The built-in system is designed to record and save video clips using the vehicle’s external cameras. Drive Recorder saves up to 90 one-minute clips of continuous looping footage, which notes the speed of the vehicle and its location. Guests also have the option to manually record and save up to four clips and up to five incident recordings. Incident recordings are clips that start recording when the G-Sensor is triggered by certain conditions, such as an impact, hard braking or airbag deployment. The sensitivity of triggering conditions can be adjusted based on preference. Playback of Drive Recorder clips is available in the head unit, and clips can also be downloaded to a USB flash drive.
Simplified Charging
The latest generation Lexus Interface also introduces new EV Charge Management features for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) such as the 2026 ES 350e and 500e. Guests can easily monitor and manage charging on the go, directly within the vehicle’s head unit. Guests can use the EV Charge Management to set charging schedules and charge limits, enable an external power supply.
The next-gen Lexus Interface also introduces EV Routing, a planning feature built into native navigation that provides charger Points of Interest (POI) details including the station name, address, hours of operation, charger type (level 1, 2 or 3), charger availability (where available), total number of chargers, and maximum output. Guests can access this information along their route or add a charger before they depart. In addition, the EV Range Map calculates the best route based on the destination and the vehicle’s battery level, suggests charging stations along the way, and estimates the battery percentage at each stop and final destination. Both EV Routing and EV Range Map require an active Drive Connect trial or subscription.
Upgraded Remote Features
The latest generation Lexus Interface integrates “seamlessly” with the Lexus app, offering faster performance. With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, guests can take advantage of their advanced Remote Connect commands to control headlights, hazard lights, trunk access, climate settings and schedule start times through the Lexus app.
The new Lexus Interface also includes enhanced Digital Key functionality, available through an active Remote Connect trial or subscription. Guests can now manage functionality within their compatible smart device’s native digital wallet app, including locking, unlocking, starting and operating their supported Lexus vehicle. Guests can also share and manage Digital Key sharing permissions with up to five additional drivers directly through their digital wallet. Once Digital Key is enabled in the wallet, it will continue to provide access to the vehicle, thanks to near-field communication (NFC) technology, for a period of time even if the device has no battery life.
Optional SiriusXM® with 360L
SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content into a seamless experience, providing drivers and passengers with unparalleled choice, content discovery, and personalized listening. SiriusXM with 360L offers hundreds of expertly curated ad-free music channels across all genres and decades, the must-hear moments in sports, comedy, news and entertainment, plus an extensive library of on-demand content. With a SiriusXM with 360L trial or subscription, listeners can discover something new based on personalized “For You” recommendations, and access related content to explore more of the programming they love. SiriusXM satellite services are available throughout the continental United States and Canada.
Optional Integrated Streaming Now Includes Spotify®
With an active Music Lovers or Wi-Fi Connect trial or subscription,* owners/lessees of the 2026 ES with a Spotify user account can link their account to stream their favorite music, podcasts, and audio-books through Lexus’ available Integrated Streaming, the onboard audio source feature. This subscription-based feature allows users with existing audio streaming service accounts to stream entertainment using the vehicle’s built-in Wi-Fi connection, eliminating the need to use a phone data plan.
*AutoInformed on
**About Toyota Connected
“Based in Plano, Texas, Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) says it was established in 2016 to contribute toward Toyota’s global vision for an intelligent mobile society. TCNA is an independent Toyota company that serves as a software and innovation hub, leveraging big data from vehicles to humanize the driving experience and provide customers secure, seamless and contextual services. Comprised primarily of software engineers and data scientists, TCNA serves as a center of excellence for connected services that elevate the customer experience as well as benefiting dealers, distributors and partners. At the heart of TCNA is Toyota’s belief in human-centered mobility and a fundamental commitment to personal privacy.”
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn. He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe. Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap. AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks. Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.