[krell]

Hey all. Does anyone know whether Bluetooth audio is supported on the 2008 model IS-F? I note that it is supported on the 2010 MY (see Lexus.com), so long as your portable device supports A2DP and AVRCP.

I have a Motorola Droid (cell phone) which has A2DP and AVRCP technology. I would like to buy a dock and install it in some discrete manner (have not figured this out yet), then use only a power cord (or perhaps no cord at all) and play music via the bluetooth functionality.

I have found that the auxiliary port and power outlet in the center console are totally inconvenient. First off, the power outlet is VERY difficult to use because the door does not close easily while something is plugged in. Plus, my phone's power input is on the side of the device, which makes it hard to place inside the console while plugged in.

So I guess my questions boil down to 2, as follows:

1. Has anyone tested the Bluetooth in the car to see if it supports Bluetooth Audio? What does the stereo input need to be switched to for it to work? I guess I'll play with this a bit today, but I wanted to see if others had tried (mainly so I don't waste my time if it is already known not to work).

2. Has anyone figured out a discrete way to run a power cable from one of the outlets to a portable device? The last thing I want is ugly wires hanging everywhere.

Thanks. I'll be relatively upset if all this stuff is easier to do on the 2009 MY or 2010 MY (I already know the power outlet issue was resolved in the 2009 MY).

 

[krell]

I am thinking about these guys for a mount...

Check out ProClip.com.

They have a mount that attaches to the center panel, to the right of the shifter. This would only be annoying if you have a passenger frequently (I almost never do). Plus, it looks like you could very discretely charge your phone via the outlet in the front when necessary.

A bit pricey, at $65... but it looks much more professional than other alternatives out there (including ugly windshield or dash mounts).

I had to select IS 250 in order to find compatible parts -- the IS-F was not an option.

 

[Flipside909]

Bluetooth audio is not available for the 2008 and 2009 ISF.

 

[krell]

Bluetooth audio is not available for the 2008 and 2009 ISF.

Ugh. Disappointing. I'd tried this yesterday and came to that conclusion. I hate that the AUX input is so inconveniently placed!

 

[Wicked]

Pro Clip Product

Check out ProClip.com.

They have a mount that attaches to the center panel, to the right of the shifter. This would only be annoying if you have a passenger frequently (I almost never do). Plus, it looks like you could very discretely charge your phone via the outlet in the front when necessary.

A bit pricey, at $65... but it looks much more professional than other alternatives out there (including ugly windshield or dash mounts).

I had to select IS 250 in order to find compatible parts -- the IS-F was not an option.

I went to that link and the price for the attachment was $29.99. I selected 2008 IS 350. Is your IS-F a different year?

 

[krell]

I went to that link and the price for the attachment was $29.99. I selected 2008 IS 350. Is your IS-F a different year?

That's just half. You pay $30 for the attachment to the car and then another $35 or so for the actual phone holder.

 

[krell]

Not sure if anyone else is interested, but I bought the ProClip mount for the Motorola Droid (other phones are supported as well). What I like about it is that it mounts to the right side of the center console. It also attaches to the car without screws or adhesive (there's some adhesive on it but I did not use it and it is still very snug and secure). You then screw the mount for your phone to the attachment. Took me about 5 minutes. Looks very attractive. Not at all inexpensive, but a nice, professional looking and easy-to-remove mounting solution for your IS-F!!!

 

[F'n around]

Thanks for the info. I'll look into it.

Does it hold the phone snug, so you don't have to worry about where your phone is at after taking a tight corner?

Are you comfortable reaching over to your phone over the center console?

 

[krell]

First off, the way the phone slides in is very snug. It uses the shape of the phone and holds it quite securely.

Second, you control the tightness of the swivel of the holder. For instance, when I first installed it, it was very loose and the weight of the phone would make it tilt to one side. However, all you need to do is tighten a screw to the desired setting. For instance, I only don't need to switch between portrait and landscape so I just have it totally secure -- so that the dock does not move at all -- which is also good because I am a bit of a crazy driver.

Obviously you should not really operate the phone while driving, but it is well within reach. For instance, I mostly use this for Slacker Radio and I am able to skip, like or ban songs while driving without any hassle.

 

[Bulls23337]

I have a Droid. I gotta check it out. Thanks!

 

[F'n around]

First off, the way the phone slides in is very snug. It uses the shape of the phone and holds it quite securely.

Second, you control the tightness of the swivel of the holder. For instance, when I first installed it, it was very loose and the weight of the phone would make it tilt to one side. However, all you need to do is tighten a screw to the desired setting. For instance, I only don't need to switch between portrait and landscape so I just have it totally secure -- so that the dock does not move at all -- which is also good because I am a bit of a crazy driver.

Obviously you should not really operate the phone while driving, but it is well within reach. For instance, I mostly use this for Slacker Radio and I am able to skip, like or ban songs while driving without any hassle.

That's what I needed to know thanks. I use mine for music as well, that's why i was asking. Phone is always in bluetooth mode while driving. Just need to be able to skip songs that I don't feel like listening to.