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I'm (hopefully tomorrow) replacing my dying Jeep. Likely candidates are a 2014 Rav4 or a 2012 Town and Country. Both seem to have good double-din slots without having a lot of vehicle subsystems tied to the factory HU. So ... I am beginning to investigate putting in an Android HU.
I'd like a recommendation on the best HU -for me- ... I know it isn't going to be the same for everyone. What I'm looking for, in no particular order, and not all of these are must-haves:
* community-supported ROMs
* 2GB RAM is highly desired.
* video input for the factory-equipped backup camera
* steering wheel controls (I'm assuming I need an adapter specific for whichever car I buy, probably not included with the HU but I want the HU to be able to accept them if possible)
* Decent sound quality output
* Good radio reception (does the US have an equivalent to DAB?) ... I'm willing to use an external FM module if that ends up being the highest quality option. App support is included in the word "good" here. And as likely figured out, I'm in the U.S.
* Some SIMPLE form of external storage (SD card is fine, USB HD is fine, I even have a spare 60GB SSD with built-in USB port since I just rebuilt my PC)
* Ability to tether to my WiFi hotspot (currently it would be a Nexus 5 phone) OR Bluetooth data connection (but I've found BT data sharing to be less well supported).
* Lollipop? I realize from searching there aren't any out there yet (pfft @ Parrot for nixing the aftermarket version of the RNB6) ... I'm not in a big rush to do the upgrade RIGHT NOW, if I can wait a few months to get a 5.x HU I will do that. Just need to know if such a model is known to be in the works?
I might go with a tablet-in-dash alternative, but would rather have a full HU. I've looked at various applink/mirrorlink solutions and found them all wanting.
>community-supported ROMs
Yes, most of us are using the custom ROMs made by Malaysk.
>2GB RAM is highly desired.
They are all 1GB devices and use nearly the same integrated CPU/RAM chipsets right now. I am pretty sure that we will see 2GB devices eventually but all of them right now are 1GB. But frankly for everything you need to do on these units 1GB is fine, just like it is for most android tablets. And the quad core devices are very responsive and snappy, going from dual core to quad core makes more of a performance difference in experience.
>* video input for the factory-equipped backup camera
Pretty much every unit has a standard composite input dedicated for backup cameras which are activated with 12v on the backup signal line. They are all also able to show the backup camera before the system is fully booted, so you turn the car on, put it in reverse and you can see the backup camera while the android continues to boot in the background (15-30secs).
>* steering wheel controls (I'm assuming I need an adapter specific for whichever car I buy, probably not included with the HU but I want the HU to be able to accept them if possible)
A standard feature, and most cars are based on the same standard.
>* Decent sound quality output
I have found they have good sound output. Especially for playing MP3's. They also extensive audio controls and EQ capabilities so you can really tune the sound compared to most factory units of "Bass/Treble".
>* Good radio reception (does the US have an equivalent to DAB?) ... I'm willing to use an external FM module if that ends up being the highest quality option. App support is included in the word "good" here. And as likely figured out, I'm in the U.S.
Some say the AM/FM is more sensitive than their factory radio was. I find it to be about equal in my case.
>* Some SIMPLE form of external storage (SD card is fine, USB HD is fine, I even have a spare 60GB SSD with built-in USB port since I just rebuilt my PC)
Most units have a couple of SD card slots that can use whatever SD card size you want. I have a 32GB and a 64GB in mine. They also support whatever USB sticks you want to use on their USB ports. They maybe do not work with USB hard drives from what I have read, you would beed to research further.
>* Ability to tether to my WiFi hotspot (currently it would be a Nexus 5 phone) OR Bluetooth data connection (but I've found BT data sharing to be less well supported).
Most all support wifi tethering, but they do not support bluetooth tethering because the bluetooth is actually handled by a dedicated bluetooth card designed for audio/phone control.
>* Lollipop? I realize from searching there aren't any out there yet (pfft @ Parrot for nixing the aftermarket version of the RNB6) ... I'm not in a big rush to do the upgrade RIGHT NOW, if I can wait a few months to get a 5.x HU I will do that. Just need to know if such a model is known to be in the works?
Its a nice to have, but there are more 4.x devices in the world than their are 5.x and it will be supported for quite awhile. I am not sure what all it buys us anyway because 4.x is stable and 5.x new features really only apply to phones.
Basically, most all the current android head units are based on the same internal hardware designs, the and main differences are in the physical front panel layout of what buttons, or knobs, or if you want a dvd slot or not etc.. my recommendation is that you get one with the best options available right now which are a) quad core, b) 1024x600 screen res, c) 16GB internal flash storage. Other than those specs its all down to the physical design of the units front panel for the most part.
I chose the carjoying unit shown in this topic because I thought it was the best choice of front panel design(no dvd slot to waste screen space, at least one knob and not all touch(yuck), etc)... to fit in my standard double din auto.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...oying-rk3188-rk3066-2-din-head-units-t3193170
nixfu said:
{snip}
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Thank you for the response
nixfu said:
>community-supported ROMs
Yes, most of us are using the custom ROMs made by Malaysk.
>2GB RAM is highly desired.
They are all 1GB devices and use nearly the same integrated CPU/RAM chipsets right now. I am pretty sure that we will see 2GB devices eventually but all of them right now are 1GB. But frankly for everything you need to do on these units 1GB is fine, just like it is for most android tablets. And the quad core devices are very responsive and snappy, going from dual core to quad core makes more of a performance difference in experience.
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Click to collapse
The Newsmy units (NU3001, NU5002, etc) have 2GB of RAM and we were able to get the source for one of the ROM versions and developed a custom ROM from the source
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...4-4-2-kitkat-head-unit-newsmy-carpad-t2865525
Are there any units that have two camera inputs for rear and front camera?
So I finally found a car ... ended up buying a 2006 Toyota Sienna Limited with less than 50K miules (insert long rant about flying across country to pick up a 2013 Rav4 only to find the dealer mis-advertised and accepted payment for the wrong trim level).
After a lot of contemplation, and realizing I want to be able to do a mirrored set up in my camper-van (a giant E350 diesel) ... I've changed gears and am sifting through how-to's on doing a 7" tablet with a plain amp, joyconn controller for the steering wheel controls, and magnetic mounts so that I can swap my tablet from 1 vehicle to another.
But thanks for all of the input on my newbie questions.
I think I'm actually taking on a significantly harder project if I'm really going to do it right ... but being able to take my tablet with me and put it in 2 different vehicles (maybe 3 if my wife decides to let me do the same rigging to her Rogue) along with keeping up with latest versions of Android will keep me happier in the long run.
HOWEVER, this is the spot I could still be convinced on ... does anyone know of a hot-swappable double din system? If I could yank the whole thing out I might go back to a full headend and just not worry about carrying it around outside of those 2 vehicles. I did some searching but I'm guessing due to the added size required for rail hardware this probably doesn't exist.
Great questions and fantastic answers. Thank you!
Pyle has recently released a few head units running 4.4.4 Kitkat. From the Amazon description:
Android OS Computer:
Touchscreen 'Tablet-Style' Functionality
Smart Device MirrorLink/AirPlay Support
Processor: Quad Core 1.6 Ghz Cortex A9
OS Version: Android 4.4.4 (KitKat)
It also indicates "Unlock Tablet-Style functionality." I'm assuming this means it comes rooted.
While Pyle is not known as the paragon of quality, they appear to be the first brand with a US presence offering an Android HU. Since their other HUs appear to follow the US DIN standard these could have the advantage of fitting in one of the readily available dash kits.
Here are the two I found on Amazon:
[amazon dot com]/dp/B01BECUOTE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=S75ZYKYU5U3C&coliid=I25LAEC05MZLFW
[amazon dot com]/Pyle-PLDNAND621-Touchscreen-Navigation-Bluetooth/dp/B01BECUKD4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_422_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51uMnRpESgL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=1A4EM6W90HKY19XFNMQA_
how much RAM? I wonder where/how it was engineered? The biggest issue w/ these chinese HUs is the poor engineering standards. One of the biggest examples being the internal/external mic wired in parallel on joying/pumpkin HUs. This issue has been around for well over a year now, and despite pumping out new models they still haven't fixed this glaring issue.
To add to that, the whole MCU concept, and the fact that the BT is effectively de-coupled from the core system.
What I'd gladly pay $500 or so for (possibly more) -
- high quality DAC/pre-outs
- no MCU
- parrot BT FULLY INTEGRATED into the OS
- proper internal/external mic interaction
- octacore
- 2GB RAM
- android 5.0. Honestly not that big of a deal if the OS is stable and runs all the standard apps
- fully mappable/customizeable hotkeys for launching custom apps from SWC/physical buttons
That would be nice. I'd sacrifice my car custom plug & play HU with a standard double din w/ those features in a heartbeat. The glaring engineering flaws in all of these current android HUs is frustrating. But I live w/ it b/c it's still a nice upgrade over stock.
Hisma said:
how much RAM? I wonder where/how it was engineered? The biggest issue w/ these chinese HUs is the poor engineering standards. One of the biggest examples being the internal/external mic wired in parallel on joying/pumpkin HUs. This issue has been around for well over a year now, and despite pumping out new models they still haven't fixed this glaring issue.
To add to that, the whole MCU concept, and the fact that the BT is effectively de-coupled from the core system.
What I'd gladly pay $500 or so for (possibly more) -
- high quality DAC/pre-outs
- no MCU
- parrot BT FULLY INTEGRATED into the OS
- proper internal/external mic interaction
- octacore
- 2GB RAM
- android 5.0. Honestly not that big of a deal if the OS is stable and runs all the standard apps
- fully mappable/customizeable hotkeys for launching custom apps from SWC/physical buttons
That would be nice. I'd sacrifice my car custom plug & play HU with a standard double din w/ those features in a heartbeat. The glaring engineering flaws in all of these current android HUs is frustrating. But I live w/ it b/c it's still a nice upgrade over stock.
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Click to collapse
Closest I've seen is the in-dash.net unit which is octacore with android 5.1 coming sometime this year, (allegedly). The MCU issue is unfortunately unavoidable at least until Google adds native bluetooth HFP into AOSP, which isn't likely to happen. And even then you still need something to be the go-between control of the amplifiers, LCD brightness control, etc.
I have the octacore in-dash.net unit and it's pretty good. My biggest beef is with the bluetooth handling. The interface is fairly basic. I think one thing that these units need is their own 'contacts' and 'dialer' apps that can dial via the bluetooth service but that also interacts with my google contacts, google maps, phone links, etc so that I don't have to do the contacts sharing, or copy and paste phone numbers from web searches or maps searches. I've got the feeling that that is easier said than done but it is key in my mind.
This is my first android HU so I'm not super familiar with the mic issues that seem to plague them. My external mic seems to just be really quiet pickup. I was thinking of getting a little pre-amp for it to put in between the plug and the HU. Perhaps I should do some more research first?
I have just been using the built in amp so far. Was thinking about testing the pre-outs on this unit. I suppose I could just break it down and take a look at the components to see if I can determine what DAC is being used.
Oh, also I don't have SWC in my car but this unit is setup for them. Not sure the physical interface specifically as I didn't purchase that option but the mapping is all in the "vehicle interface settings" app on the unit.
Not all of these head units have the mic problem. But joying & pumpkin, which are two of the most popular models, do have this problem. I used to have a joying, now I have a 2nd gen AN-21U, and it doesn't have the mic problem.
Yes the ability to fully integrate our phones with google now via the HU would be perfect. Google now has all my contacts as I have an android phone and save my contacts to google. But trying to call a number this way goes nowhere. Really a way to make the whole experience as hands free as possible would be great. Ford has sync, mazda has gracenote, and there are others I'm sure that attempt to implement a fully hands free system.
Other users have already examined the DAC in these units. One made an audio mod that integrates the DAC directly with the unit instead of passing it through the MCU, which significantly improves the unit's audio capabilities. It's just another example of the head sctatching engineering decisions on these things.
more info here - http://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/mtcb-hardware-development/mtc-sound-controlling-bd37xxx-sound-t3234660
Btw I am not sure if there is a universal pre-out configuration for these, but my AN-21U has 1V unshielded pre-outs. Pretty frustrating. I get some "white noise" in the background when I up the volume thanks to the high noise floor. Considering putting in some high quality RCA cables to see if that helps, but obviously if the pre-out voltage was higher this would be less of an issue.
Pyle PLDNAND621
I 've bought and been using one of these for about a week now and had a couple questions for you guys. This radio seems to have an app for controlling the Bluetooth function and is not controlled within the settings menus. Do you think think the app could be changed as a Bluetooth obd2 module I use with other Android device works fine with the same car. I have the same question for the radio tuner app, I don't like the layout and it won't tell me the song titles . I search but can't find a "local station" radio tuner app.
Thanks for any ideas, Doug
I've got it and rooted it on 4.4.4 su etc ...flash fire enabled.....anyone point me to someone that could walk me thru dumping the rom on this unit and someone that can then make a custom recovery we would be in the game for this unit ..it has a recovery ..all I can say for right now .....v4a apk will not work on this unit due to some busy box error I cant stop ..I have it correct in the system ....so we need custom.rom.for it .....any one still wanna rip this thing?
lokisyn said:
I've got it and rooted it on 4.4.4 su etc ...flash fire enabled.....anyone point me to someone that could walk me thru dumping the rom on this unit and someone that can then make a custom recovery we would be in the game for this unit ..it has a recovery ..all I can say for right now .....v4a apk will not work on this unit due to some busy box error I cant stop ..I have it correct in the system ....so we need custom.rom.for it .....any one still wanna rip this thing?
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Click to collapse
Please help. I upgraded my PYLE PLDNANDVR 695 and lost bluetooth. Pyle wants me to send it in for repair. I much rather fixing this myself.
Hi
I am currently using Parrot Asteroid Smart, generally I am satisfied with the unit, sound quality is great, BT and other features works good, but the HW is old and max. Android version is 2.3.
I'm thinking about upgrading to newer android and the only possibility I see is one of chinese 2din HU like Ownice C500.
Does anyone have experience if they are any cons of such change? What is the sound quality of C500 compared to Smart?
Any info would be appreciated.
ee0090 said:
Hi
I am currently using Parrot Asteroid Smart, generally I am satisfied with the unit, sound quality is great, BT and other features works good, but the HW is old and max. Android version is 2.3.
I'm thinking about upgrading to newer android and the only possibility I see is one of chinese 2din HU like Ownice C500.
Does anyone have experience if they are any cons of such change? What is the sound quality of C500 compared to Smart?
Any info would be appreciated.
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Click to collapse
I am in the exact same situation. I was happy with the PAS at first, but it became outdated and frustrating very quickly - the lack of apps supported natively, the lack of ram and storage. Even after rooting and installing Google Play store there are so many apps that can't be run on 2.3. Positives though are that the Bluetooth call quality and voice command is in my opinion unmatched.
I have since bought an Eonon Android unit (rooted and installed Malaysk rom) for my wife's car and the interface is great, the sound is reasonable and the app support is great. The Bluetooth however is terrible, to the point of being unusable, the person on the other end can either not hear or suffers from major delay. This is a known problem with nearly ALL Chinese Android head units and there is a hardware mod but not being very confident in opening the unit and performing the mod properly and potentially voiding warranty is a risk I'm yet to take with it. I also have an issue where the physical volume control knob stops working and sound can only be adjusted on-screen, this is usually fixed with a reboot.
I still have not found a reliable unit to replace the PAS in my car after reading numerous threads that has Bluetooth quality on par with the PAS. Hopefully someone else here can recommend a decent unit?
Joying 2GB Intel is the way to go
CadillacMike said:
Joying 2GB Intel is the way to go
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Click to collapse
Why?
look over some of the various threads on XDA, and feel free to check out the official Joying forum - http://forum.carjoying.com/
For the most part i think Joying gets the least amount of negative feedback, they tend to have pretty good customer service, and they seem to so somewhat monthly updates. I have had the older 1gb model and I currently have the newer 2GB of RAM model, and I'm a big fan:
here is a video review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzGFDwSFj24&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUP4WGYHIaQ
but dont take my word for it, like I said, if you spend some time reading, you'll see a lot of the other head units have their fair share of bugs and complaints
If you want a fully functional BT interface, go with the Intel 2GB Joying head units. I think they are the only ones with a full stack BT interface available, the other Rockchip based units seem to have a somewhat hacked in BT interface which is limited compared to a full native interface, specially when it comes to how the Android OS can access and control it.
Install the apk from this thread and you have access to the standard Android BT settings screen, it is normally hidden in the Settings app but luckily it's not removed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...elopment/bluetooth-settings-launcher-t3504526
Hilari0 said:
If you want a fully functional BT interface, go with the Intel 2GB Joying head units. I think they are the only ones with a full stack BT interface available, the other Rockchip based units seem to have a somewhat hacked in BT interface which is limited compared to a full native interface, specially when it comes to how the Android OS can access and control it.
Install the apk from this thread and you have access to the standard Android BT settings screen, it is normally hidden in the Settings app but luckily it's not removed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...elopment/bluetooth-settings-launcher-t3504526
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the info
Few questions:
What is the BT handsfree quality with external mic installed?
Does the radio display station names? Does RDS and AF work correctly?
What is the general sound quality?
Does WiFi module connect with 4G router?
I use the head units wifi to connect to my phone as a wifi hotspot. Works great. BT handsfree with external mic is very good, at least according to those I talk to, I haven't been on the "receiving end" yet..
The sound quality is good, I'm still using the OEM speakers and they sound better with this head unit compared to the OEM head unit. Can't confirm on radio as I actually don't use it much... It does have RDS it seems, but don't know if it works or not. (radio where I live is garbage, nonsense content and music seems limited to whatever the top 20 list is...)
Hilari0 said:
I use the head units wifi to connect to my phone as a wifi hotspot. Works great. BT handsfree with external mic is very good, at least according to those I talk to, I haven't been on the "receiving end" yet..
The sound quality is good, I'm still using the OEM speakers and they sound better with this head unit compared to the OEM head unit. Can't confirm on radio as I actually don't use it much... It does have RDS it seems, but don't know if it works or not. (radio where I live is garbage, nonsense content and music seems limited to whatever the top 20 list is...)
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Click to collapse
Thank you for the info. Which version do you use? I can see there are 3 different versions of 7" universal unit with the same hardware. The difference is that two of them have volume knob and the 3rd only touchscreen.
Hilari0 said:
If you want a fully functional BT interface, go with the Intel 2GB Joying head units. I think they are the only ones with a full stack BT interface available, the other Rockchip based units seem to have a somewhat hacked in BT interface which is limited compared to a full native interface, specially when it comes to how the Android OS can access and control it.
Install the apk from this thread and you have access to the standard Android BT settings screen, it is normally hidden in the Settings app but luckily it's not removed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...elopment/bluetooth-settings-launcher-t3504526
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Click to collapse
Both MTCD and Joying INtel have positive and negative feedbacks....
In terms of BT performance....both have BT Limited to MCU. Even you could pair from the BT standard menu, the functionality is limited. If i am not wront (correct me) both units CAN'T perform CALLS from BT by using google Now. Google Now recognizes correctly the name and it seems to start the call but never is initiated as it can not communicate with the real bluetooth Handsfree on the Headunit.
On the Intel units, the BT and wifi hardware is on the same board as the CPU, Android has full access to it. That is not the reason Google Now can't make calls. This is different on the MTCD units where the BT is a module which is sort of hacked in and Android doesn't have full access to.
I have bought Joying with Intel. BT handsfree works fine, although there are some other problems:
- no voice in Google Maps,
- when listening to the FM radio no voice output from nav apps except of Igo,
- I have connected Alpine active sub to the unit, sub works fine for first few minutes and stops, any idea why and what can be done about it? Sub worked great with Parrot, so it must be some issue with Joying.
ee0090 said:
I have bought Joying with Intel. BT handsfree works fine, although there are some other problems:
- no voice in Google Maps,
- when listening to the FM radio no voice output from nav apps except of Igo,
- I have connected Alpine active sub to the unit, sub works fine for first few minutes and stops, any idea why and what can be done about it? Sub worked great with Parrot, so it must be some issue with Joying.
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I think if you change default nav app to your preferred one, you'll get voice output in FM radio.
For the sub - is the amp still ON after a few minutes when it stops? I have an active sub on mine and have no issues. I'd check on what your source for "on" signal on your amp is.
Google maps voice output doesn't work no matter what I do. As a default nav app neither.
Sub is powered and it works with very low volume settings, ad soon as I turn the volume up it stops working.
ee0090 said:
Google maps voice output doesn't work no matter what I do. As a default nav app neither.
Sub is powered and it works with very low volume settings, ad soon as I turn the volume up it stops working.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We got Google voice output working. Look into the forum.
Strange. Maybe I should reset the unit to factory settings. Reinstalling google maps did not help.
Any idea what is wrong with the sub?
ee0090 said:
Strange. Maybe I should reset the unit to factory settings. Reinstalling google maps did not help.
Any idea what is wrong with the sub?
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Click to collapse
(have seen a few oem ones) if so it would be hooked up with the sub RCA output ? Is the amp powering down ??
If so try hooking the remote line on the amp to an 12v acc line instead. (This is no different to the headunit remote 12v output just that if you switch the head unit off the amp is still powered on , this could eliminate a headunit problem ?)
ee0090 said:
Strange. Maybe I should reset the unit to factory settings. Reinstalling google maps did not help.
Any idea what is wrong with the sub?
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Click to collapse
As wrx216 said. I think it might be bad wiring. try a different SUB "ON" source. For example, I tap in the + wire of my rear speaker as the power on signal for the sub amp.
Google maps voice output still does not work. I did factory reset - it did not help.
I have updated the firmware and google maps voice works fine. But sub does not work at all now.
I have connected remote wire of the sub to constant +12V output (the same as amp. power supply) - it still does not work. I have also tried to change RCA input of the amp. - still nothing.
Hello guys!
So, I have a 2005 Audi A4 B7 and I'm thinking about buying an android head unit for my car. So far I have found 2 head units that look somewhat like the factory one, or that I like. They both have Android 8.0 / 8.1, Quad-Core with 2GB of RAM. Now, are these chinese head units generally worth it? I'm really concerned about sound quality (I have an aftermarket amplifier and subwoofer installed). Now I have a Kenwood head unit and the sound output is decent, can't really complain (better than factory radio).
And I have a few questions.
One of the units is made by Mekede (the factory look-alike) and the other one is made by Wondefoo. Has anyone had any previous experience with these 2 makers?
Also, I do not see an AUX IN on these chinese head units. Do the have one? Is it possible to have one? I'd much rather play music over BT, but is generally the connection stable?
Seeing as they are Android, am I able to install 3rd party apps, such as Vanced YouTube ? Or Waze (or any other app that does not come preinstalled) ?
Generally speaking, how is the boot up time on these units?
They both cost around $210. Are they too cheap? Should I try and save up more? Look for other makers? Most of the times I'm going to be listening to music (either via USB, BT - or any way it can be connected to my phone; or YT) while, sometimes, using Google Maps / Waze. Are these cheap android head units generally laggy when multi-tasking? Does it really matter which one I buy, as they're all "cheap chinese products"?
Here are the links to the units:
1. Mekede
2.Wondefoo
Or if you guys could recommend me another one which really is worth the money, it'd be appreciated. I'd like it to have volume knobs, and the factory look-alike is a plus.
I am sorry if these questios have been asked before!
Thank you!
One thing to keep in mind - RAM amount. 1GB of RAM is not enough for these units. I'd recommend 4GB of RAM, but make sure you get at least 2GB of RAM for sure (and even that may not be enough).
Try to find a unit with PX5 (octa-core) or PX6 processor and 4GB of RAM, if possible. Android 8.0 or 8.1.
In terms of sound quality, I too was concerned. I ended up rooting and installing Viper4Android and the sound quality is great. I'm using an extenral amp, but the internal amp sounded good with V4A as well. Viper4Android gives you a LOT of flexibility in customizing the sound to your liking.
jtrosky said:
One thing to keep in mind - RAM amount. 1GB of RAM is not enough for these units. I'd recommend 4GB of RAM, but make sure you get at least 2GB of RAM for sure (and even that may not be enough).
Try to find a unit with PX5 (octa-core) or PX6 processor and 4GB of RAM, if possible. Android 8.0 or 8.1.
In terms of sound quality, I too was concerned. I ended up rooting and installing Viper4Android and the sound quality is great. I'm using an extenral amp, but the internal amp sounded good with V4A as well. Viper4Android gives you a LOT of flexibility in customizing the sound to your liking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Must be a PX5 or PX6 ? Most of the sellers don't list their processor model, just listing it as "octa-core". I'm aware that V4A can give you a lot of flexibility in sound customization (I've used it on my phone for a while)
Do these head units integrate well with the CAN ?
Here are the more technical names (may help identify them):
PX3: Cortex A9 (Quad-core) - 32-bit ARMv7 architecture.
PX5: Cortex A53*(Octacore) - 64-bit*ARMv8 architecture.
PX6: Cortex A72 (I'm not sure of the details - brand new platform)
From what I've seen, most Android 8.0 units are PX5 and most Android 8.1 units are PX6 (brand new). Units with older versions of Android are probably PX3, I'm assuming. Most of these units do not get "official" major Android version updates - the manufactureres just release new models instead of upgrading existing models (but some can be upgraded via custom ROM's).
Personally, I would probably look for a PX5 MTCE octa-core unit with 4GB of RAM. I wouldn't consider anything older than a PX5/Android 8.0 unit - and like I said, I'd recommend 4GB of RAM if you can find it. The PX6 units are brand new - there are no custom ROM's or anything for them yet or anything. They also seem to come with less RAM and storage from what I've seen?!?!
Only way to be 100% sure what you are getting is to ask the seller - they should be able to tell you the processor type and "MCU" type (MTCE-XXX),where XXX is the MCU type. The MCU is like the "go between" between the Andorid OS and the radio hardware (MCU type can be seen under the Android settings menu) - you may even ask them to send a screenshot of the hardware info from the Android settings to confirm what it actually is.
Just a "general" overview of some of the basics - I hope that helps.
Oh - and if you have a CANBUS car, you need a CANBUS adapter. If the seller is selling a unit specifically for your car, they usually include the CANBUS adapter. That will allow your steering wheel controls to keep working and other items.
Yes. That actually helped. These with 4 GB RAM and at least a PX5 cost more, about $350 so I'm going to wait, save up a bit more, because I also need to convert my car from 1 DIN to 2DIN and that will cost me at least an extra $70.
I also want one that looks like the factory equipped one, so, yeah, I'll just wait another month or so.
Thank you for your answers, guys!
Sent from my SM-G935FD using Tapatalk
I have a mekede unit supposed to be android 8.1..... It's not it's actually 6.0
This was from mekede official store on aliexpress
They are now not answering my messages and unfortunately I didn't figure this out until after the buyer protection time limit had ended.
Just to post an update to my original post... At first, I thought that the sound quality was great. But the more and more I used the head-unit, I found that sound quality was NOT up to par with my previous WinCE head-units. And I also ran into noise-related issues. I did everything in my power to try and resolve these issues (including using external amps for better sound quality), but in the end, I gave up and re-installed my WinCE head-unit.
Unfortunately, from my experience, these Android head-units just aren't up to par in terms of sound-quality and noise-rejection. I had noise-related issues from the LED backlighting, USB devices, wifi and bluetooth wasn't very good either. Hopefully, they continue to improve upon these units, because having the head-unit run a full version of Android is great - but sound quality is also important - and even more important to some (like me). Would be great if the big audio companies starting building full Android head-units (Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, JVC, etc).
Since my WinCE unit supports Easy Connect, I can still get the advantages of Andoid for certain things while also having fantastic sound-quality and no noise issues. Best of both worlds. Granted, the WinCE unit is significantly more expensive ($699 vs $350), but just like anything else - in most cases, "you get what you pay for". The WinCE unit that I'm talking about specifically is the Dynavin N7 - and they use high-qaulity sound components. But I also had Rosen WinCE head-units and they sounded great as well (but again, significantly more expensive).
All depends on what is most important to you - software flexibility or sound quality.
My new 2021 PX6 from Phoenix Automotive Vertical Fast Boot OEM fiber option. Had this for about 2 months. I use it with an external OEM AMP. Used in a Lexus.
AMP is not fiber. The unit is a PX6 MCU RL78c (2014 Chip-set) NCHHWY V332-0 , Framework px6-userdebug 9 PQ2A 190305.002. OS 9.
Audio is very good! I love the sound. Speakers: OEM Mark Levnson in the front, 6.5inch JBL GX600C + Sound Ordnance M2-10DVC 10inch in the back.
Tested only with stock HU.
What works on the stock PX6:
(With correct wiring harness)
1. Fast-Boot. After first 2 setup boot-ups, on is instant for 24 hours of nonusage.
2. AC controls work (Cooling).
3. Searing Wheel controls work out of the box on Lexus w/canbus included.
4. Audio player works but not a good GUI.
5. Phone works with Bluetooth.
6. Android Auto is installed and works.
7. DSP Sound works with an EQ and many settings, GUI is good.
8. Most User Settings seem to work. Wheel mapping may stop after Fast-Boot for 5 minutes (bug).
9. Navigation (Google Maps) works, GPS works.
9.5. Maps works Off-Line in Google Maps.
10. Radio with about 16 memory storage.
What is not working in a Lexus / Toyota :
1. Factory Settings. All-access is denied. Locked out! Big Issue for me.
2. GAS monitor/usage. This should work out of the box. Phoenix says it is not working and is disabled in Lexus. BUT is advertised to work on the Phoenix site.
3. Sound MAX loud setting will NOT save after reboots. After boot, the sound is all the way up, loud. After talking with Phoenix tech, no fix. However, if FastBoot is on, the audio may save to a lower setting for about 24hours. If you don't use HU for 24 hours settings are lost again..
4. Screen will reflect windshield in GS Gen3 Lexus. May be an issue in sunlight.
5. If you wear Sunglasses or have glasses that do auto shade to dark, you may not like the screen because it can be hard to see.
6. Radio- Local / Distance not working. Can't find a fix. However Local radio is working fine. I get most local stations clear.
7. Temp display worked for 2 days now showing -40 at all times. (No fix).
8. Fast-Boot image changing. The stock app that changes the BOOT-Image will not work. It is out of date and will not work with Android 9+. It needs an update from Manufacture. A Phoenix Auto add-on app (download), also will not work, out of date. App complains of an Error with the Android version.
Add-On that work:
1. Musicolet from Play Store. The Stock Audio player sucks big time.
2. Bluedriver OBD2 reader.
3. Torque Lite or Pro OBD2 reader.
4. Function Generator, from Play Store.
That's about it.
Roger Out
Hi there. I have recently installed an aftermarket Android 11 screen in my car. I set up the unit with a 4G SIM card so it has its own isolated internet connection, as I want this entire unit to be self-sufficient and never have the need to connect a smartphone to it.
Is there a way to run Android Auto on this Android unit as a stand-alone app without having to connect a phone or external device to it?
(this seems like it should be a basic and common question, but I could not find an answer using Search)
TIA.
No one knows what the head unit is, out of the many unit types and manufacturers.
What have you identified as a possibility to solve your problem from reading the forum
There is not really a "brand" per-se, it's a somewhat generic aftermarket Android unit manufactured in China and distributed by DMP Car Design for a Mercedes W205 chassis. The device is "unlocked" and I can install almost anything.
As a network device, It identifies itself as: 'Bengal for arm64'
Specs:
12.3" Screen | Android 11 | 6GB LPDDR4 Ram | 128GB Storage | Qualcomm SnapDragon 662 (sm6115) 8-core kyro 260 64-bit CPU
I would think most of this has no bearing on the app having the ability to run stand-alone (except for the Android version).
Thanks!
KeithW205 said:
There is not really a "brand" per-se, it's a somewhat generic aftermarket Android unit manufactured in China and distributed by DMP Car Design for a Mercedes W205 chassis. The device is "unlocked" and I can install almost anything.
As a network device, It identifies itself as: 'Bengal for arm64'
Specs:
12.3" Screen | Android 11 | 6GB LPDDR4 Ram | 128GB Storage | Qualcomm SnapDragon 662 (sm6115) 8-core kyro 260 64-bit CPU
I would think most of this has no bearing on the app having the ability to run stand-alone (except for the Android version).
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For what reason you want to mess around with Android Auto?
This app is meant to connect a phone with an OEM head unit to mirror the screen of your phone to your head unit.
In fact:
Your new head unit is able to handle all the apps itself a lot better as any AA installation would do.
If you don´t have a phone connected, you won´t be able to make phone calls at least.
So I am really curious what you expect to get and the reason for your question.
Hi, did you resolve the problem with your android head unit because I've got the same predicament . Thanks
rigattoni said:
For what reason you want to mess around with Android Auto?
This app is meant to connect a phone with an OEM head unit to mirror the screen of your phone to your head unit.
In fact:
Your new head unit is able to handle all the apps itself a lot better as any AA installation would do.
If you don´t have a phone connected, you won´t be able to make phone calls at least.
So I am really curious what you expect to get and the reason for your question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since I have work accounts on my phone, I cannot connect to external devices. Additionally, I prefer not to have my car's system or devices be dependent upon an external device to function. From my perspective, the only requirement I should have to make everything in my car work is to have a key, that's it.
I like the clean UI of Android Auto and it works well for native Google navigation and music control in one simple interface which is why I was looking for an "easy" way to run Android Auto on my aftermarket Android car screen without having the dependency of a connection to a smartphone to function.
Charlieboy205 said:
Hi, did you resolve the problem with your android head unit because I've got the same predicament . Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi there. I did not spend a lot of time pursuing this as I ended up going down too many rabbit holes in search of a solution.
I dropped trying to run Android Auto as a stand-alone app without a smartphone connection and went with FCC Car Launcher. In the end, I gained a huge amount of functionality and customization by using FCC. I now have a Google moving map, music controls, and much more on a single home screen without any dependency on a smartphone. (my headunit has its own 4G internet connection)
KeithW205 said:
Hi there. I did not spend a lot of time pursuing this as I ended up going down too many rabbit holes in search of a solution.
I dropped trying to run Android Auto as a stand-alone app without a smartphone connection and went with FCC Car Launcher. In the end, I gained a huge amount of functionality and customization by using FCC. I now have a Google moving map, music controls, and much more on a single home screen without any dependency on a smartphone. (my headunit has its own 4G internet connection)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Using Fcc is surely the best solution.
As I said... Stand-alone Android Auto is not possible. you always need a Connection between phone and head unit. This is the way this app works...
I already use Fcc nearly since the start of development and I would not use anything else.
I have a 2016 RAV4 with Entune radio. Looking for a GPS Navigation capable unit. I have an Android phone. Seems like an Android OS wireless and wired head unit would work. Extensive research led me through Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, Sony: all poor values. Car stereo dealers want a fortune to install. I value function and reliability. Any suggestions on a plug-and-play easy install unit that will keep my steering controls and factory backup camera? T'eyes CC3 and Dasaita Max 10 both are on my short list. Prefer to buy from US only.
Hello all,
I may be late, but you can use Headunit Reloaded Emulator (it's a paid App):
Headunit Reloaded Emulator HUR - Apps on Google Play
Turn your tablet or Android powered unit into a full blow Android Auto headunit.
play.google.com
You can run standalone Android auto server and app.
There is a trial version for testing:
Headunit Reloaded Trial for An - Apps on Google Play
This is a free trial version of the Headunit Reloaded Emulator.
play.google.com
Regards.