Grom ipd4 ipod integration is250 se-L

[lexusandy]

Hi I currently have an ipod integration setup in the my is250 se-L 07 but It will not display track names or titles and I cannot operate the mm screen like an ipod.

I have looked at several different ipod integration units including vaistech and grom IPD4 kit to replace it  but cannot find if changing this will give me what I want.

what I would like to know is

1. has anyone used either the vaistech or grom ipod kit in a lexus is250 se-L auto uk spec (i add this as the vaistech is from America and they have told me that it should be compatible but does depend on your software for the vehicle)

2. is my head unit compatible to utilise any of the functions I need. (Gen 5 i think)

3. if my generation 5 headunit is not compatible is there way of upgrading the software of the unit to a latest generation that comes in newer lexus models. i love my se-L and don't wish to change the car but not being able to see song tracks/titles or playlists is really start to grate my ocd.

included is links to two products i have found.

what i really what is for music tracks/albums to show on the mm screen and to possible operate the touch screen like an ipod.

any help or advice would be very much appreciated.

Thanks

http://gromaudio.co.uk/products/grom-ipd3-ipod-iphone-kits/toyota-lexus-ipod-iphone-integration-kit.html#Additional-Information

http://www.vaistech.com/product/sl3b-l/

[Shahpor]

I am afraid I can't answer your query, but I am interested to find out myself.

I also use an ipod in mine, and it is a pain to have to reach into the armrest to start and stop it everytime.

So, apart from automatically starting and stopping the ipod, what does the integration kit do?

Actually, I can answer your 3rd question - no, the Gen 5 can't be updated to add any of the new cars functionality unfortunately.

From what I understand, and I could very well be wrong about this, the Vaistech kit tricks the headunit into thinking it is the autochanger.  So, you do lose the option to play audio discs, but you can control the track selection just like if there was a disc inserted.  However, I doubt track/album information would show.

It is really a shame that the sat nav unit in our cars is so antiquated. 

[lexusandy]

Thanks for your response.

I believe the integration kit gives cd quality sound through the stereo. my current set up definitely does this.

my current kit utilises the 6cd changer so I am still able to play cd's as well as using the ipod.

I may have to speak to grom and ask some questions.

I have found that you can buy an aftermarket head unit but again comes from America and is a little pricey. ($799).

 

[Ken.K]

Saw this post yesterda and did some research around the grom kit, i also spoke with a grom rep and you keep all functions including sat Nav and in built Cd changer. It just acts as an external CD changer. why it caught my attention is because i do not know if my car has Bluetooth streaming yet from what i read it does not support A2DP but i want to see it as the previous owner said he could stream. till I fix the touchscreen i cannot confirm this

Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk

[lexusandy]

I have also spoken to a grom rep and got this reply.

Hi Andy,

 

I can confirm this kit would be fully compatible with your IS250 and it connects via the “external” CD changer port and then basically pretends to be a Lexus CD changer allowing it to be controlled with the same buttons/touchscreen just as a Lexus CD changer would. 

 

To clarify you will get track names and as playlists are seen as discs you can navigate them with the disc up/down controls.

 

Alternatively if you wanted “full” integration with apple CarPlay or Android Auto so that your apps appear on your touchscreen, please take a look at the VLine kit

 

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to ask.

 

Kind Regards

 

Richard Heap

 

Tel: 01530 888533

email info@gromaudio.co.uk

web www.gromaudio.co.uk

I have also taken a look at the vline kit mentioned and have included a link for this as well. this looks very nice and the ability to use apps would be handy feature. not sure if it is just for android phones or not but I will ask this question.

I hope creating this topic will help any LOC members with any information they need.

I will add to the post if any more information becomes available.

http://gromaudio.co.uk/lexus-toyota-2006-2009-grom-vline-infotainment-system-upgrade-video-interface.html

[Ken.K]

you just read my mind there, i was about to search for similar, if you or I can get this working am sure it will catch on, would be very handy getting the apps for andriod play.

[goodfella1]

Did anyone order VLine kit? Can anyone post a review about it? I find the integration very interesting. It looks to me that it brings our 2005 system closer to what recent cars are offering. I personally really like ML/NAV in my IS. I find it sophisticated enough, yet intuitive. I wonder whether VLine kit can improve it further to let me use the smartphone instead of CDs and iPods. I saw their US video, but I am interested to know what this forum members think about it.