Connect with us

Technology

THE NEXT ERA IN MULTIMEDIA: LEXUS INTERFACE SETS A NEW STANDARD

Published

on

Enhanced Lexus Interface Multimedia Experience Launches on 2026 Lexus ESIntuitive Home Screen Design Offers Personalized, Dynamic Experience for Every GuestNew Embedded Voice Assistant Functions Enable Faster Responses to “Hey Lexus” PromptsLexus Premiere of Drive Recorder, a Standard Feature That Uses Exterior Cameras to Record Events and Store the Recordings Onboard the VehicleTurn-by-Turn Navigation Incorporated Full Screen on the Multi-Information Display (MID), a First for Lexus InterfaceFirst Integration of AT&T 5G Network Connectivity in the Lexus lineupEnhanced Entertainment with Introduction of SiriusXM® with 360L and Newly Available Integrated Streaming with Spotify®

PLANO, Texas, May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lexus is ushering in a new era of in-cabin technology with eye-catching design, innovative features, and unparalleled performance. 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.”

The system marks Lexus’ first integration of AT&T 5G network connectivity into the lineup, which helps bring increased speeds and expanded features with the reliability of AT&T’s extensive network across North America. 

Unparalleled Delights, Ultimate Customization
The user experience on the latest Lexus Interface seamlessly blends crisp graphics with intuitive icons displayed across the ES’ standard 14-inch screen. The touchscreen’s response times are improved thanks to increased on-device computing power.  

Personalization is paramount in the latest-generation Lexus Interface. Notably, the 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 easy-to-view access to what matters most.

A Quick Control Menu has also 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 and more. 

With more than 64 different ambient lighting options within the lush interior of the 2026 Lexus ES, guests can enhance the mood on any drive with a simple touch of a button.

To provide guests with even more options to suit their needs, Lexus Interface also offers wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.

Improved In-Cabin Assistance
Thanks to a new on-device embedded solution, the 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 speedy 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, and more. Voice Assistant can even 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.

As an added layer of personalization, 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 visibility and a more immersive driving experience.

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 and more – all designed to make your trips easier and more enjoyable than ever before.

Peace of Mind, Standard
The latest generation Lexus Interface debuts Drive Recorder, a standard feature that provides traditional dashcam 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) like the 2026 ES 350e and 500e. Guests can easily monitor and manage charging on the go, directly within the vehicle’s head unit.

With a simple touch of a button, guests can use the EV Charge Management to set charging schedules and charge limits, enable an external power supply, and more.

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.*

With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription,* EV Charge Management features are also available in the Lexus app, helping drivers stay in control of their charging needs from the palm of their hand.

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.

Entertainment Like Never Before
The latest generation Lexus Interface comes packed with all-new entertainment options to fit every playlist preference: 

Available 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.

Available 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 audiobooks 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.

A New Chapter in Development
Lexus Interface was first introduced on the 2022 Lexus NX. Since then, designers, developers and software engineers have been laser-focused on gathering guest and dealer feedback and applying real-world experiences in their quest to evolve and elevate the in-cabin experience.

The result is a global collaborative effort among Toyota Motor North America’s Connected Experiences Division and Toyota Connected North America. The Lexus Interface platform architecture uses Automotive Grade Linux, open-source software, and Woven by Toyota, Inc.’s Arene software development platform, the foundation for Lexus’ most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies.

*5G network dependent

About Lexus
Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 244 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With nine models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers seven F SPORT models. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers.

About Toyota Connected, Inc.
Based in Plano, Texas, Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) 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 benefitting dealers, distributors and partners. At the heart of TCNA is Toyota’s belief in human-centered mobility and a fundamental commitment to personal privacy. Learn more at www.toyotaconnected.com. 

Media Contact
Kimberly Agnello  
kimberly.agnello@lexus.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-next-era-in-multimedia-lexus-interface-sets-a-new-standard-302767196.html

SOURCE Lexus

Continue Reading

Technology

Hexaware Hosts Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire Mayoral Delegation, Deepens Partnership with University of Leeds

Published

on

By

Part of the Great North Mayoral Delegation’s visit to India, discussions focused on Hexaware’s UK expansion and planned R&D centers in Leeds and Manchester

MUMBAI, India, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hexaware Technologies (NSE: HEXT), an AI-first digital and IT services company, hosted a delegation led by Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, and Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, as part of The Great North’s first joint mayoral-led trade mission to India

Hexaware met with Tracy Brabin and delegates from West Yorkshire at its Mumbai office to discuss the company’s UK investment plans, regional employment, and opportunities for technology collaboration across the North of England.

During the visit, Hexaware and the University of Leeds discussed their agreement to strengthen industry–academic collaboration through research, knowledge sharing, and experiential learning opportunities for students.

Earlier in the mission, on October 14 in Bengaluru, Hexaware leaders met Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, together with representatives of the British Deputy High Commission and the Invest Manchester team, to discuss Hexaware’s investment in the city region.

Hexaware announced that it will create hundreds of jobs and invest £9 million in a new Design and Innovation Centre at Manchester’s innovation district, SISTER, delivered in collaboration with the University of Manchester. By establishing a base at SISTER, Hexaware will have access to Europe’s largest clinical academic campus on Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor and a rapidly expanding digital and tech ecosystem within the city.

The visits follow Hexaware’s June 2026 announcement of a £25 million UK expansion, expected to create approximately 1,200 jobs over three to five years across Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham, including 420 in Manchester and 240 in Leeds. Plans include proposed R&D centers in Manchester and Leeds, with Newcastle also under consideration as a potential future location, given the region’s strong university talent pool and proximity to Scotland.

Parameshwaran Iyer, Executive Vice President & Head – Europe, Hexaware, said, “The North of England is an important part of our UK growth plans. Our investment goes into developing technology capabilities and recruiting graduates from the region’s universities, training them to work with enterprise and public-sector customers. Our new agreement with the University of Leeds will strengthen this pipeline, giving us closer access to graduate talent as we grow our presence in the region. We see considerable potential in the talent and expertise available across these cities.”

Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said, “Greater Manchester has established strengths in healthcare, life sciences, and AI, supported by close cooperation between universities, researchers, and industry. We welcome Hexaware’s plans for Manchester and the opportunities they present for investment, innovation, and employment in these sectors.”

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said, “It was great to visit Hexaware’s headquarters in Mumbai and hear first-hand about the company’s ambitious plans for growth in the UK. Their investment in Leeds and the creation of hundreds of new jobs is fantastic news for West Yorkshire and a strong vote of confidence in our region. Trade missions like this give us the opportunity to meet decision-makers directly, strengthen international relationships and explore how businesses like Hexaware can deepen their links with West Yorkshire to create a stronger, better-off region that works for all.” 

Glenn McCauley, Head of Proposition Development at the University of Leeds, said, “We were delighted to join this Great North Mayoral Delegation to India and to discuss with Hexaware leadership and with the Mayor of West Yorkshire how the University of Leeds’ agreement with Hexaware can be a catalyst to drive economic growth in our region.”

India and the North of England are connected above all through people, with more than 81,000 people of Indian heritage living in Yorkshire and the Humber, and 50,000 people of Indian diaspora in Greater Manchester. Thousands of Indian students also choose universities in the two regions every year. Increasingly, Indian companies are also among the region’s investors and employers. The India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), in force since July 2026, alongside The Great North’s investment initiatives, gives that relationship fresh momentum.

Hexaware will continue discussions with regional partners on its proposed R&D facilities, graduate recruitment, and technology partnerships across the North of England, drawing on Leeds’ strengths in digital engineering, data science, robotics, fintech, and technology-enabled care, and Manchester’s strengths in healthcare, life sciences, cyber, and AI.

About Hexaware

Hexaware is a global technology and business process services company. Every day, Hexawarians wake up with a singular purpose: to create smiles through great people and technology. With offices across the world, we empower enterprises worldwide to realize digital transformation at scale and speed by partnering with them to build, transform, run, and optimize their technology and business processes. Learn more about Hexaware at https://hexaware.com.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/hexaware-hosts-greater-manchester-and-west-yorkshire-mayoral-delegation-deepens-partnership-with-university-of-leeds-302917888.html

Continue Reading

Technology

Fosun Wealth Opens Its First Private Wealth Center in Hong Kong at Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui

Published

on

By

Appointment-Only Center for High-Net-Worth Clients, Partnering with Fosun Wealth IFA to Expand Wealth Management Capabilities

HONG KONG, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fosun Wealth International Holdings Limited (“Fosun Wealth”) announced the official opening of its first Private Wealth Center on the 23rd floor of Prudential Tower, at The Gateway, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. The center provides a dedicated offline space for meetings and wealth planning in Hong Kong, exclusively tailored for high-net-worth clients. Visits are by appointment only, and the center operates in partnership with Fosun Wealth IFA (Independent Financial Advisor), supporting clients from initial discussions and tailored proposals through to signing and implementation.

The opening ceremony, themed “A Starry New Chapter on Victoria Harbour”, brought together business partners from fund, asset management and insurance industries in Hong Kong to celebrate the occasion.

Expanding amid Industry Growth to Address Clients’ Demand for Long-Term Advice

The opening comes as Hong Kong’s wealth management sector continues to expand. According to the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, as of the end of 2025, total assets under management (AUM) in Hong Kong jumped 20% year-on-year (YoY) to a record high of HK$42.2 trillion. Among the major segments, AUM of private banking and private wealth management business increased by an impressive 24% YoY to HK$12.9 trillion. At the same time, client expectations have shifted. High-net-worth individuals are increasingly looking beyond fragmented, one-off product recommendations and seeking professional institutions that can deliver cross-market and multi-generational support over the long term.

The center’s location in Harbour City offers views across Victoria Harbour and a calm, private setting. It features four dedicated meeting rooms, with each client received by a relationship manager throughout their visit to allow for in-depth discussions in a confidential environment. In addition to client meetings and document signing, the center will also host smaller, focused sessions to help clients better capture opportunities in Hong Kong’s wealth management market.

Strengthening Collaboration with Fosun Wealth IFA to Enrich Service Matrix

The Private Wealth Center will also serve as a working base for Fosun Wealth IFA, supporting professional discussions and the review of more complex cases. Launched by Fosun Wealth in 2025, Fosun Wealth IFA is Hong Kong’s first one-stop platform for independent financial advisors (IFAs) to establish and grow their practices. It has already built a team of nearly 500 advisors. Built on a compliant licensing framework, the platform integrates diversified financial products, AI-powered tools and structured trainings, supporting advisors from licensing through ongoing professional development to independent practice. The goal is to help raise standards and professionalism across Hong Kong IFA industry.

Fosun Wealth subsidiaries hold securities and insurance brokerage licenses. Under strict compliance, they provide access to insurance, securities, asset management, and corporate financing services. Fosun Wealth has also established partnerships with numerous leading fund houses, asset managers, and insurers, supporting both the Private Wealth Center and the IFA platform.

Cheng Kang, CEO of Fosun Wealth, said: “Hong Kong continues to strengthen its position as an international hub for asset and wealth management, supported by its resilience and openness. This creates a valuable opportunity for us to deepen our presence in the local market. The opening of the Private Wealth Center is more than the launch of a new location—it marks a new chapter in Fosun Wealth’s commitment to serving high-net-worth clients in Hong Kong with a more personal, long-term approach, bringing our ‘warm private wealth stewardship’ to a broader client base. Whether we are serving high-net-worth clients or building a stronger ecosystem for financial advisers, we aim to set a high standard in Hong Kong’s wealth management industry. We will focus on turning our capabilities into lasting value for clients, and work with clients and partners to support the continued growth of the sector.”

About Fosun Wealth International Holdings Limited

Fosun Wealth International Holdings Limited (hereinafter referred to as “Fosun Wealth”) is an AI-driven global one-stop Web5(Web2+Web3) wealth management platform wholly owned by Fosun International Limited (stock code: 656.HK) in Hong Kong. With its solid financial position, Fosun Wealth has obtained various licenses via its subsidiaries, including Type 1, 2, 4, 6, and 9 licenses granted by the Securities and Futures Commission(SFC) of Hong Kong, and an insurance broker license granted by the Insurance Authority(IA) of Hong Kong. Fosun International Securities Limited, a subsidiary of Fosun Wealth, is one of the first batch of brokerages to provide virtual asset dealing service. Fosun Wealth has launched several industry-leading brands, including the Fosun Wealth App, Finloop, FinChain, and Fosun Wealth IFA. For more information, please visit: www.fosunwealth.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/fosun-wealth-opens-its-first-private-wealth-center-in-hong-kong-at-harbour-city-tsim-sha-tsui-302917889.html

SOURCE Fosun Wealth International Holdings Limited

Continue Reading

Technology

WOLFX Student Super App Reaches 104 Universities One Month After US Launch

Published

on

By

All-in-one college platform reports 300 percent subscription growth following Arizona campaign 

MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — WOLFX, an all-in-one app designed to help college students thrive academically, socially and financially, has been downloaded by students at 104 universities in 130 cities across the US just one month after its launch in Indiana.

The platform recorded a 300 percent increase in subscriptions following its Rush WOLFX campaign in Arizona. Rush WOLFX is a game of skill that involves college fraternities and sororities putting their business skills to the test to win a $10K prize. 

WOLFX plans to hold six additional Rush competitions at Universities across the country next month.

WOLFX brings together AI-powered study tools, wellness support, a student marketplace and opportunities for student entrepreneurs in a single app, giving students who juggle academic, social and financial pressures one place to manage college life.

“I developed WOLFX to make the lives of college kids better. To see the app being so well received across America gives everyone involved a huge boost,” said Simon Bishop, founder of WOLFX. “As a father, I know college can be a daunting time for students and parents. WOLFX is aimed at easing those fears of loneliness and isolation. I’m so happy WOLFX is making a difference.”

Students say the app is already part of their daily routine.

“This is honestly the only college app you’ll ever need,” said Katie Wolf, a cheerleader at Indiana University. “Whether it’s managing my schedule, working on a business idea or even selling some items on the student marketplace, WOLFX has me covered. This app is a game changer for college students.”

WOLFX Platinum is available for $28.99 per month. WOLFX can be downloaded on iOS and Android.

About WOLFX

WOLFX is a student-focused super app designed to help college students navigate campus life through AI-powered study tools, wellness support, a student marketplace and entrepreneurial opportunities. The platform aims to make college life more connected, manageable and rewarding. WOLFX is available on iOS and Android. Learn more at https://wolfxapp.com/.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wolfx-student-super-app-reaches-104-universities-one-month-after-us-launch-302917619.html

SOURCE WOLFX

Continue Reading

Trending