Features & Capabilities

Lionel Cab3 is an entertainment Chrome extension that lets model train fans control Lionel locomotives from their browser.

It offers two control modes: Bluetooth one-to-one pairing with Lionel locomotives, without a command base, and a Base3 interface to unlock the full potential of Lionel's models.

User Growth & Download Statistics

By:
Lionel, LLC
Rating:
3.70
(54)
0.10
Version:
1.1.048 Last updated: 2025-04-15
Version code:
871594769
Creation date:
2024-06-24
Compatible devices:
Size:
134.45MB
URLs:
Website ,Privacy policy
Full description:
See detailed description
Source:
Apple Apps Store
Data ingested on:
2026-06-07
Compare stats and ranking:

Contact the developer

Chrome-Stats does not own this Apple app. Please use these information below to contact the Apple app developer.
Developed by:
Lionel, LLC
Apple Apps Store
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lionel-cab3/id1606814421
Website:
http://www.lionel.com/

User Reviews

The Lionel Cab3 app shows a strong concept and potential, but is hampered by frequent crashes, persistent connectivity problems (WiFi/Bluetooth) with Base3, an outdated WiFi hardware stack, unreliable lashups/engine control, and slow update cadence. Basic operation works for some engines, but overall reliability is inconsistent. Users want faster fixes, more features, and improvements in usability (navigation, iPad support) to unlock the app's potential.
Pros
  • Good concept with potential for high-quality control of Base3/Bluetooth; strong foundation.
  • Basic running works for some engines, enabling simple operation.
  • The app shows potential to be great and has garnered continued interest for improvements.
Cons
  • Frequent crashes and instability, especially around Engine Configuration and lashups.
  • Persistent connectivity issues between the Cab3 app and Base3 (WiFi/Bluetooth), including random disconnects after screen lock and throttle resets.
  • Outdated Base3 WiFi hardware leading to unreliable home-network connections and need for workarounds (hotspot, etc).
  • Lashups and advanced engine control are unreliable; sequences break and some features drop out.
  • Update/maintenance issues and slow release cadence; bugs persist and updates sometimes fail (Azure/JIT issues).
Recent reviews
It was working fine the other day, now the App crashes whenever I try to add the “Engine Configuration” parameters. It’s so frustrating! On top of that, the Base 3 has the most antiquated WiFi system, probably circa 2011. I had to create a backwards compatible WiFi hotspot just to run it, and even then, it always wants to disconnect. When it works, it works, when it doesn’t… it doesn’t.
by Wi*****, 2026-02-27

This version of the app has been out for over 8 months. It is still full of bugs and frustrating issues. Two major flaws still exist on my end with updated base firmware 1.32 and newest version of app 1.1.048. 1) When my iPhone does a screen lock it will randomly cause all connected IOS Cab3 app controllers to disconnect and it will not allow a reconnect to the base without power cycling of the Base3. If my phone doesn’t lock, I never have a connectivity issue. After power cycle all devices connect immediately. 2) Randomly Cab3 buttons will turn orange and stop responding. This affects accessories, engines, and switches. Seems to be totally random. By switching to Bluetooth and back to Base on the tabs at the top of the Cab3 app it will start working again. This is very frustrating and disappointing this product has been on the market for as long as it has been and limited progress has been made on the reliability of the app.
by W6*****, 2025-12-27

Upgraded my iphone os to 26. I can see the engine but the app is unable to send commands. This app is a major part of using the Base 3 and it hasn’t been upgraded in 6 months. What is Lionel thinking. Please stay on top of your product. Conceptually the Base 3 and the app are great ideas but need attention. I will revise my rating when the functionality is fully working.
by vt*****, 2025-11-14
View all user reviews ›

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