Database Users

Digging in ... do any head units currently support these items?

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}
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
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!

Help choosing Android 2 din for Citroen C1

Hello,
First time poster here, so bear with me. (Also, can't post links yet unfortunately)
Current set-up:
-I have a Citroen C1 from 2007, currently equipped with the standard radio. (No steering wheel controls).
-I listen to music mostly with my Android Phone (Galaxy Note 2), usually with Spotify.
-For Navigation I use a (outdated) TomTom.
My current TomTom navigation is pretty much dead, so I could buy a new one, or spend 100 USD more and buy an all-in-one Android radio, mediaplayer and navigation.
To install the 2 din Android unit, I've bought a "Double Din fascia" for Citroen C1/Peugeot 107/Toyota Aygo from AliExpress. Pretty sure I don't need any special harnesses or anything.
Goal:
I'd like to install a 2 din android radio, to replace the standard radio, switch to in-car-navigation and add loads of extra functions.
Must-have functions/features
-Has to fit in the mentioned double din fascia for Citroen C1
-OBD for Torque (Bluetooth or USB-connected)
-Guaranteed future patches/bugfixes/updates etc.
-Simultaneous navigation and music playing
-Spotify-app possible (on- and offline)
-Able to run 'Flitsmeister' (Dutch app for police speedchecks)
-Can hook up to the standard speakers in the C1
-Under <€ 300 (<335 USD)
Optional functions/features:
-Music stops with incoming call
-DVD player
-Mirror link with phone
-Knob for volume instead of slider/buttons.
-DAB+ 'ready'
-TV-Tuner 'ready'
-Suitable for TomTom navigation app (or similar good Europe navigation app)
-USB-hub possible (for USBsticks, Bluetooth keyboard, OBD, 3G dongle, USB-camera etc)
-Preferably ships from EU (so I don't have to pay taxes)
-If the standard mic is bad, option to add external mic)
-Possibility to hook up a dashcam, save recording on the unit.
-Possibility to hook up a reverse camera.
Please note that although I have done plenty of reading and comparing the last days, I have zero experience with radios or electronics whatsoever.
So far, I've done a lot of research, but the sheer amount of different models, manufacturers, versions etc. is overwhelming. Some people recommend certain brands, while others say it doesn't matter, all that matters is the chip. Due to the budget, I've kept mostly to the Chinese brands (mostly on AliExpress), which offer good price/quality-ratio.
A couple brands/models that caught my attention so far are: (you can look up the numbers in the search on AliExpress)
1. Pumpkin (C0255) - AliExpress ItemNo: 32462954221
2. Joying (No modelno.) - (Identical to 1?) - AliExpress ItemNo: 32324865603
3. Newsmy (NU3001S-H-H0-2) - AliExpress ItemNo: 32301663432
4. Ownice (No modelno.) - AliExpress ItemNo: 32378852325
5. <Brandless> (No modelno.) - AliExpress ItemNo: 32458170947
6. <Brandless> (No modelno.) - AliExpress ItemNo: 2018398158
-No. 1-4 seems to have better specs etc, but cost almost 100 USD more.
-No 1 and 2 and pretty much identical, but different brands and 30 USD difference.
-I've read good stories about Ownice and Newsmy, who seem very eager to bring out new updates / patches etc.
-Some models seem to be bigger than 2 din (the 'head' is slightly larger), will it still fit in the 2 din fascia?
-Will my small car battery be sufficient enough for these units?
Any help/tips/advice/recommendations/experience with installing/using it in a Citroen C1 is more than welcome!
Thanks!:good:

New Android Head Units from Pyle

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.
Click to expand...
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?
Click to expand...
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.

Single Din flip out screen "universal" Android head unit suggestions?

Hi everyone,
I'm looking for a a single din flip out android head unit. What units should I be looking at?
The feature list that I am hoping for:
-Detachable faceplate (so it wont get stolen)
-DVD (high capacity storage for MP3s)
-GPS (Waze support)
-FM radio
-Wifi
-TuneIn
-Built in dash cam support
-Reverse cam
-BT hands free (hopefully with a high quality external noise canceling mic)
-MirrorLink (Android Samsung)
-USB/SD support (music storage)
-DTV Tuner (optional)
What seems to be the best I am currently finding online:
1. http://www.erisin.com/erisin-es8990a-7-hd-android-hd-car-dvd-player-wifi-3g_p571.html
2. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/7-Ca..._1&btsid=88acdd43-446e-427d-9a13-045c68fa52a0
3. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/7-Qu..._9&btsid=d9a28b86-5335-4e22-851a-71bcfd0cdf7a
Anyone have any experience with these units?
Any and all input will be greatly appreciated!

Did you ever get a reply?
I am looking for something similar myself.

I can't really recommend anything, but I was pondering on whether or not to go with one of these, but decided quite not to. Mostly because of the very potential reliability issues with the mechanism and bad screen resolution. Even the brand name makers seem to have trouble getting the flip up mechanisms to work reliably for extended periods of time, so with all respect I sincerely doubt the Chinese can do much better in the price range these units are.
There are MTCD units out there that fit single DIN and have detachable 8" screen with adjustable mounting. Also, even most of the double DIN units don't actually internally use any more than 1 DIN of space, thus with slight creative butchering they could be custom mounted to replace factory navis or such. That's my plan anyway. Sorry for a bit of off topic.

My Wish List vs ATOTO / Xtrons / Dasaita

Hey guys,
Hoping to hear your thoughts and opinions, the good/bad/ugly.
I'm about to buy my first Android Head Unit but have been trying to get something like this going for a long time.
Here's the "Wish List" I've made to weed out the unit I want.
Unit:
Universal
Double/2 Din
PX6
4GB RAM
64GB ROM
Screen:
10"+ HD IPS (unless there's an OLED out there)
Lowest Profile available (distance been back of screen and dash)
No need to pan, but adjusting up and down and tilt are a plus
No branding
Preferably little or no buttons
No visible ports
OS:
Android 9.0, hopefully, upgradable to 10
Extensions:
Bluetooth -> Support for 2x Paired Phones at once able to receive calls or stream music would be great!
Wireless Apple Car Play
Android Auto
MicroSD card support of 256GB or higher
DPS
Dual-Band WiFi
1+ Video Input NOT back up cam (Plan on attaching a Nintendo Switch as an input device. I haven't seen anything higher resolution on input than just CVBS, but if one existed that would help? Or the support of USB 3 Video Dongle (USB to HDMI)
Right now, this has led me to this one
Dasaita HA2156A-MAX6
There's so much "noise" in this space with the hundreds of resellers/OEMs and scammers that I think I'm just going to pull the trigger on this and see what happens.
But before I do, if anyone has any better options, or thoughts/words of wisdom, please pass them along!
Thanks in advance!
I also really like the ATOTO A6Y1021PR but it's spec'd so low compared to the others and is running Kitkat (what the hell???)
I also really like some of the Xtrons, but couldn't get the specs. If I go wth a PX5 then they have tons of options, but couldn't find a 10+ screen with PX6

I'm interested in this too, I've been looking for a while at Android head units and while my wallet says go a basic double din 6-7" screen, the rest of me says go for that PX6 with the 10" screen.
I'm looking at getting the single DIN so that I can keep the little storage place below it, the only storage in my entire car (75 Series Land Cruiser Ute). If anyone knows of any reason not to, feel free to chime in, but otherwise I'm going to go the same route as you '82. The Maxx6 looks like the only PX6 with a massive screen from a reputable brand

My experience is that some of the specs are best described as "rubbery". Some of the good value units include marketing graphics which are copy-pasted to assist sales and are not wholly accurate.
Ideally one would like to see a pic the summary screen.
Casual research indicates ATOTO delivers the goods!-IMHO

There is not one single (cheap) Chinese brand supporting to pair 2 phones at once.
Only a few of the latest PX6 models support dual-band wifi. Most only support 2.4GHz.
Support for Apple Car Play and Android Auto can be tricky. Especially if your phone is on android 9. Support for android 10 (released today on 3 September 2019!) might take quite some time.
1+ Video Input: Haven't seen that yet.
Dasaita is a very good choice but does not support the above mentioned wishes either.
and what is DPS? or do you mean DSP?

You can get lower profile by "burying" the double din instead of flushmounting it to dash/adapter bracket

I've been enjoying my admittedly under-powered ATOTO A6 Pro for months now, and while I don't have experience with other Android Head Units, I've gained some perspective. Mainly, we're not really talking about buying an Android tablet here!
Android tablets are obsolete after a year or three, but my lexus is 20 years old and (with certain updates) I still love it. I've realized that although I wish I didn't have to put up with quite so much lag while interacting with certain android apps running on the ATOTO (Google Maps responsiveness is painfully slow), I'm really glad about the ways that the A6 Pro behaves like a car stereo head unit should: It has a great display that's easy to see in all lighting; It's on instantly after the car's ignition (with minimal battery drain while the car is parked); great bluetooth aptX audio streaming and call handling; the backup camera view is instantaneous after shifting to reverse (with optional volume reduction while in reverse), it can drive 4 speakers (6 if you count the component tweeters surprisingly well at 29W RMS each without an external amp (while supplying my powered subwoofer with a clean line output), etc, etc.
So with the A6 Pro one learns to keep most apps on the adjacent SmartPhone (even if you're not choosing to use Android Auto or CarPlay which mostly run apps on the phone), and mostly run media apps that are easily handled on the head unit. I've never been bothered that my car stereo is running marshmallow or whatever instead of Android 10.
My phone is running Android 10 and is distracting enough as a responsive/powerful android device. And while it would be cool if it were faster, my car's head unit is more about good music and phone integration while driving (or while parked and listening to/watching media .