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Hi guys!
I am looking for a nice android based radio to my Outlander 2011. I found at least 5 types of design "Fascia change" devices. I think that they are not so popular among people so I have another question. I am looking for 2DIN newest device. Could you please give me a list of 5 newest or best pieces I should consider? It is very important for me to keep steering wheel buttons working and need very good sound quality on built in Rockford Fosgate audio system with external amp and 2-3ohm 8x speakers + woofer. I've heard that some devices not work properly or give not exciting experience.
Thanks a lot!
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If you looking for a Android aftermarket there is no way you can choose with audio like the way you wanted. They're just simply like China Android phone or tablet placed on your car.
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So there is no any bestseller?
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Personally, I'm waiting for the 8 core systems to mature a bit. I have a 4 core, and it's a little sluggish. I find myself having to roll back to 4.4.4 after upgrading to 5.1. Just too slow. The new 8 core systems are out, but it still seems early to make a firm decision. Ownice and Indashnet seem to be the 2 main manufacturers that I've seen. Everyone else does 4 core. Joying has a 2GB Intel based system that kind of rests in the middle, but considering it costs about the same as an octacore, I would rather wait a bit to see which of those the community takes to the most.
I got deeper into those 8 core and they seem to be super crappy as they use extremely slow Allwinner and Mediatek A53 which sucks. Intel in Joying looks interesting but this device has problems with obdii and few other things. I ve seen pumpkin doing also intel device. However maybe some of you know if there is any manufacturer who still has dvd slot with Intel SoFIA and 2GB + USB for pendrive music? Or at least USB.
On the other hand - is it very hard to make car USB in armrest working with such android device?
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Or on the other hand - What about Windows CE 6.0 devices - are they causing less problems? What I need is nice and smooth infotainment system, working steering wheel buttons, bluetooth and usb and fast boot after turning engine on.
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Right now I believe the 2GB Intel Sofia head units with Android 5.1.1 from Joying are the best. There are 8 core units on the way, but who knows if that's one month or six months down the road... There are also some units advertising Android 6, but reports seem to indicate that these are a mess of a mashup between 4.4, 5.1 and 6.0, and not true 6.0 units. As for performance, I'm pretty happy with the Intel unit. I wouldn't use it for gaming, but it does all what I need it to do which is Maps, Spotify, 1080p movies and so forth. Unless you have some specific need for doing something that requires very high performance, it is quite adequate as a head unit in a car.
As for special sound setups, it gives you preamp outputs, 4 channels (FR/FL and RR/RL) as well as a sub output. The sub output isn't really managed though, so no crossover or phase selection on it. You can use these preamp outputs to hook up aftermarket amplifiers, but don't expect the head unit to power big speakers with the internal amplifier.
I didn't read the same things about the 8 core units on here. Many people are saying that the CPUs are a lot faster than the Intel cpus, and at least some of them are running true 6.0, not a mashup. It's legit, but nothing has been rooted and the community is still divided. I've definitely read that the Intel CPUs won't be upgrading past 5.1 because they're no longer supported by the manufacturer as well.
My source is mostly this post, and the thread it's in:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=70311462&postcount=12
As far as I know, yes Intel has dropped the Atoms, but Rockchip has taken over the chips and will continue making them and supporting them as per a cooperation agreement with Intel (source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rockchip look at the bottom to see Intel Sofia 3G). Intel may have pulled out, but the architecture isn't dead yet. Sure, it may be dying and might not have any new direct successors, but I recon it's time to upgrade the entire head unit long before it reaches the end of its useful lifespan (2-3 years). This will be true for any smart android head unit you buy today anyway..
Do any of the other 2GB RAM Android Head Units available today have a true sleep or suspend (ultra low power mode) that allows the unit to start up instantly like the 2GB Intel Sofia models? To clarify, this instant on feature is not the same as the past Rockchip or other cpu type of Android head units that have options for delayed shutdown of up to two hours or more. This new feature means you do not have to wait 30 to 60 seconds for the system to fully boot after sitting for a few hours or days. IMHO, the instant on feature combined with 2GBs of RAM appears to be the best or one of the best options for Android head units available today. Do the latest Ownice or Indashnet units have this instant on feature? If not, that would be a deal breaker for me, as I have Joying and Hotaudio units that work fine for most part (thanks to the xda firmware developers and contributors here). Nonetheless, these older 1GB RAM Rockchip units could be faster and the boot time is not acceptable in a vehicle.
Moreover, any Android head unit that does not allow for root access would be a complete deal breaker here, no matter how fast... (no root = no purchase). The one thing that concerns me with the 2GB Intel Sofia models is that nobody on xda appears to have found a way to access Recovery yet.
In regard to audio quality, even the 1GB RK3188 JY and HA units sound decent in my Mitsubishi with the correct factory amp adapter wiring kit and the Viper V4A audio mod app.. Please note that I'm not an audiophile by any means, so your mileage will vary.
Anyway, just my 2 cents... and thanks in advance to anyone that can let me know if any of the other Android head units have the instant on feature.
Happy New Year!
R
I recently installed a Joying 2GB RAM intel head unit, and although it is NOT a high powered cpu ( 4cores at 1.1 Ghz) it does seem adequate for its purpose.
Typically I run torque / bluetooth ODBII, dashcam/dvr, music app, tablet talk, read it to me, and google maps at all times. Processor usage is normally in the 50-65% range and it still seems quite snappy. The intel chip does run hot, and thermal throttling can be a issue. I added a big heatsink and fan at the top of the case, problem solved. The instant on works very well. When starting the car it automatically finds my phone, ODBII adapter, and hotspot within a couple of seconds of power on.
It does suck not having any type of recovery such as TWRP. The only way to recover from a non-booting system is a full reload of the stock ROM. It does leave the /data partition so at least all your apps are still there, and most settings can be restored using titanium backup. Just today I updated the boot animation with one I created and it wouldn't boot. It took me about 1 hour to get it restored back. At least it does have root out of the box.
The Joying is my first android based HU, and I'm actually quite impressed with it so far.
Hilari0 said:
As far as I know, yes Intel has dropped the Atoms, but Rockchip has taken over the chips and will continue making them and supporting them as per a cooperation agreement with Intel (source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rockchip look at the bottom to see Intel Sofia 3G). Intel may have pulled out, but the architecture isn't dead yet. Sure, it may be dying and might not have any new direct successors, but I recon it's time to upgrade the entire head unit long before it reaches the end of its useful lifespan (2-3 years). This will be true for any smart android head unit you buy today anyway..
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Click to collapse
I guess my issue here is that I, also, already have a 1gb 4 core unit. So, for me, I'm looking for a bit of a better upgrade if I'm going to spend another $400 so soon. I am, honestly, hoping for a way to upgrade my current system - I don't think they'll make compatible modules for the Intel or the octa core. That said, I'm going to limp along with my current system as long as I can before making a decision. I think that for those making a decision right this minute, there's a lot to take into consideration. I would seriously recommend avoiding the 1gb RK3066 or RK3188 units at this point, though.
If you have a head unit that works today and you're not in immediate need of a new one today, then you can safely wait and see what the coming months will bring. It seems that the market for these Android units are finally moving away from 1GB ram units, in favor of 2GB ram. At this point, you should avoid everything which only comes with 1GB ram. I never had one, but from what I read they didn't allow much in terms of multitasking. The 2GB units will always perform better than the 1GB units, so the choice is fairly easy there. The benefit from the Joying Intel units, is that they are the only ones I've seen so far which offer 32GB internal storage. I don't understand why in 2016, now 2017 the other manufacturers insist on sticking with 16GB internal storage, but this gives a quite distinctive advantage to Joying. Also the previously mentioned sleep mode where you get true instant on feature is really nice.
Can someone having Rockford in Mitsubishi can tell anything about built in car BT and phone buttons in steering wheel? They still work or at least are used to control phone functions in HU?
What about USB in arnrest and AUX - do they work or is it possible to wire them for working?
Rockford will still have it's power? HU amp is written to have 4x50W while whole system is 8 speakers + 1 woofer altogether 710W. What is rockford's input?
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Hilari0 said:
If you have a head unit that works today and you're not in immediate need of a new one today, then you can safely wait and see what the coming months will bring. It seems that the market for these Android units are finally moving away from 1GB ram units, in favor of 2GB ram. At this point, you should avoid everything which only comes with 1GB ram. I never had one, but from what I read they didn't allow much in terms of multitasking. The 2GB units will always perform better than the 1GB units, so the choice is fairly easy there. The benefit from the Joying Intel units, is that they are the only ones I've seen so far which offer 32GB internal storage. I don't understand why in 2016, now 2017 the other manufacturers insist on sticking with 16GB internal storage, but this gives a quite distinctive advantage to Joying. Also the previously mentioned sleep mode where you get true instant on feature is really nice.
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Click to collapse
The 32GB doesn't matter as much to me because I don't install that many apps. I have a 128gb USB stick connected for my music, and I can easily jump that much higher if I need to. 2gb ram is definitely important. The faster the CPU the better, though. My quad core 3188 is sluggish even when I don't have anything loaded and I'm not maxing the RAM.
A mate installed a yum cha Joying JY-135 and it seems ok. Radio signal seems to be weak. It seems to auto connect via bt to a Samsung 6 and starts to play audio but I have to manually press play to start audio on my M9. The screen doesn't dim when you turn the lights on which kind of sucks.
I think for music it should be fine and works well in my mates Nissan. As for me, I'd be using the rca's, just a shame that there's no sub volume control so you'll need a separate sub control knob.
choochee - which car do you have?
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juniorkm7 said:
choochee - which car do you have?
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mates car is a Nissan X-Trail '07. I've got a Subaru Liberty Gen 4. We'll connect it with the proper supplied loom soon, only temp spliced at the moment. Can confirm that hu turns on straight away.
Almost made decision but still need to get sure. There are 2 options with Intel Sofia: pumpkin and joying (2DIN standart) Which one better to choose and why?
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juniorkm7 said:
Can someone having Rockford in Mitsubishi can tell anything about built in car BT and phone buttons in steering wheel? They still work or at least are used to control phone functions in HU?
What about USB in arnrest and AUX - do they work or is it possible to wire them for working?
Rockford will still have it's power? HU amp is written to have 4x50W while whole system is 8 speakers + 1 woofer altogether 710W. What is rockford's input?
Sent from my Nexus 5X using .....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, i have just installed a Joying UL-135N2 in my 2011 Outlander Rockford Navi.
Some part of the installation where quite manageable, but some parts are more complicated.
With the right adaptor, CTSMT002.2 from connects2 the Rockford and the SWC works.
The original BT will not work, but the SWC works with the HU BT functions.
Reverse camera needs 6.8V signal from the HU, so here you need an step-down converter and some soldering.
The USB in the armrest needs an adaptor cable, alternatively you can disassemble the mid console and solder the cable.
I have ordered the step-down and the adaptor cable , but not received yet. I have tested the camera with 6V, but the image quality is poor, hope the 6.8V is better.
Out2011
I ordered an Eonon GA2168K yesterday before I realized the Quad Core processor (A7) and ram (2GB) was potentially outdated. I like that it’s running 8.1 and the looks of the mount/ swivel feature to the 10.1” screen are more appealing to me.
However, I’m now considering sending that one back and ordering the Xtrons TE103AP. While I don’t love the looks of the screen mount as it appears to stick out way further than the Eonon (and only pivots vertically). I’m wondering if it would be best to have the upgraded Octa Core processor (A53) and ram (4GB). Is is really going to preform that much better to justify the additional $100? It’s also currently running 8.0 as opposed to the Eonon running 8.1.
I’m in over my head trying to gauge processors and ram specifications and just want to make sure I’m making the best decision for the money. The Eonon is $100 less which is more inline with my current budget but if the extra specs are far superior then I can prob justify the extra $100.
I don’t plan to do anything crazy with the head unit. Most intensive activity would probably be running videos on the unit for the kids on long road trips.
Thanks so much for any and everyone’s help with this. I’m freaking out trying to make the right call!
Insight?
Can anyone please provide some logic behind the processors and ram differences? I’ve been reading that even with an OctaCore processor it’s all about the app developers and if they’ve actually written the app to actually take advantage of the 8 cores properly. With that said maybe it’s the ram that’s more important.m but as I mentioned before I’m new to all of this.
Any comments are beyond appreciated!
Back at it!
Back at it again researching. I’ve actually been reading about more know issues with the Xtron unit that the Eonon in the last 24 hours. It appears the screen issue is pretty common which I’m wondering know if it has anything to do with the only vertical pivot mount and connector that I don’t really love.
I’ve also read that while the tech keeps advancing app developers have not gone back and rewritten apps to actually take advantage of the Octa core processor. In some cases people say the ovtacore units are not as fast as the quad core units because the apps are not optimized. Could this be true?
Still so torn. Really hope I can get some feedback on this thread. Maybe from some people who actually have the units and or units that utilize the same ram and processors...
Thanks again in advance for any comments.
Anyone?
Bump for some comments?
I just received my Eonon GA2175 this week, i was going to buy one of the 8 core 4g ram units but they were out of stock when i ordered it during the Valentines day sale which was too good a deal to pass up .
I read lots of different posts and the consensus was not to get a 1g ram unit as they tended to be laggy, i dont need a fast unit so as long as it plays music and runs Igo i will be happy.
Hopefully fiting it tomorrow although its going to be 37c so a bit hot to be working in a hot car.
Thanks a lot for your comments. I went ahead and installed the Eonon unit to give it a try and honestly I could not be happier at the moment. The unit is snappy fast and responsive. I have not yet (knock on wood) experienced any sort of lag. I am very happy with the screen mounting setup and of course the pivot which is one of the primary reasons I chose this specific unit. I’m imagining only time will tell how the CPU and RAM will do but I’ve also ready a lot about rooting the device to remove pre installed bloat ware which I’m kinda keeping as a fall back option currently if needed. I’d rather not root the device as I don’t really know all the cons of doing so just yet but at least it’s an option if I find the device to be slowing down and or having trouble keeping up. Once I’ve had more time to use the unit I’ll certainly add some additional feed back. Good luck getting yours installed!!! These android units are absolutely amazing value for the money!
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hangover68 said:
I just received my Eonon GA2175 this week, i was going to buy one of the 8 core 4g ram units but they were out of stock when i ordered it during the Valentines day sale which was too good a deal to pass up .
I read lots of different posts and the consensus was not to get a 1g ram unit as they tended to be laggy, i dont need a fast unit so as long as it plays music and runs Igo i will be happy.
Hopefully fiting it tomorrow although its going to be 37c so a bit hot to be working in a hot car.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool @hangover68 - out of interest what is the MCU on that unit? Is it an MTCE or something else?
So..... two days in now and the audio started shuttering while several apps were open and working. I had the bag giving me directions, an app downloading, and the audio playing and it started shuttering bad. Turned off the bag and it was still shuttering. It seems like it will fire up and play audio ok but as soon as I try to do too much it starts like glitching or lagging. Is this the under powered CPU and RAM???? Seriously thinking about returning it now for the Octa Core 4GB ram unit from Xtrons or Dasaita 10.1”. Please help...
TundraTech0054 said:
So..... two days in now and the audio started shuttering while several apps were open and working. I had the bag giving me directions, an app downloading, and the audio playing and it started shuttering bad. Turned off the bag and it was still shuttering. It seems like it will fire up and play audio ok but as soon as I try to do too much it starts like glitching or lagging. Is this the under powered CPU and RAM???? Seriously thinking about returning it now for the Octa Core 4GB ram unit from Xtrons or Dasaita 10.1”. Please help...
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Click to collapse
It could also be overheating - My Eonon did that when I first got it - (we were having 45 degree C days here in Australia!).
Download CPU-Z and check the thermals page when it is stuttering. This might give you a clue. Mine was reaching over 120 degrees!
The solution for me was to add a heatsink on top of the CPU, now it stays around 60 to 80 degrees even in the Australian heat
millab said:
Cool @hangover68 - out of interest what is the MCU on that unit? Is it an MTCE or something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure, will i find that in the system info ? Performance is good and IGO nextgen is running good, sound is much better than i expected.
Just got to route the reversing camera cable and wire it in.
millab said:
It could also be overheating - My Eonon did that when I first got it - (we were having 45 degree C days here in Australia!).
Download CPU-Z and check the thermals page when it is stuttering. This might give you a clue. Mine was reaching over 120 degrees!
The solution for me was to add a heatsink on top of the CPU, now it stays around 60 to 80 degrees even in the Australian heat
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only thing is I live in NH of the USA and it’s like 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit right now. Should be plenty cool to keep any overheating issues at bay.
Fingers crossed the manufacturer can shed some light on the issues.
TundraTech0054 said:
Only thing is I live in NH of the USA and it’s like 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit right now. Should be plenty cool to keep any overheating issues at bay.
Fingers crossed the manufacturer can shed some light on the issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha yeah maybe it isn't overheating then! :silly:
Yeah I hope they work it out for you!
HMI: KABT_010.2018.09.20.13.30
MCU: TS907.181110
MEDIA: HC_v1.0.0_180917_0900
BTV: BT.18.08.27.0930(C0:81:35:13:47:87)
OS custom build version is alps-mp-o1.mp5
Processor is an MTK 1.2GHz ARM A7 quad core
Dears,
anybody tried Eonon GA2178 - 10" Android 9 Head Unit?
I'm actually on Eonon GA2168K - 10" Android 8 Head Unit, it's a good device with minor problems.
Anytime developers fix a problem they introduce an other problem and there's no community support for MTK chipsets.
Because of this I'm evaluating the new Eonon GA2178, that is quite similar but based on Rockchip chipset.
Tks!
Hello everyone.
My 3 years old 7" Joying Sofia 2gb HU died, and I'm looking for a replacement.
Since the release of my unit, I noticed that the new models are based on PX5, PX6 and the latest AIRMONT Intel units.
The most important things for me:
- fast performance and stability, which means at least 2gb of memory, preferably 4gb.
- good ANDROID AUTO compatibility, either natively, or good support for the app "Android headunit reloaded" which I've been using all the time on my dead joying unit
-Fast wake up time after sleep, I really don't want to wait a minute for having a working unit once I turn on the car.
Any alternatives to Joying Headunits? I was disappointed with the quality control of their units and support.
Any advice will be highly appreciated!!
Hi,
I never give "buying advice" as I only know Joying and can't compare with others: there is no clear pro/con here. Some users prefer one brand, others another. 9 out of 10 only know "their own" brand and promote that one (something like: the more in one community, the more community support you might expect?). But you PMed me with the question about advice so I will give my 2 cents.
From what I have heard Dasaita (Hot Audio) seems qualitatively a bit better, but that's from hear-say. They are also slightly more expensive than the Joyings.
I now received the SC9853i unit from Joying for only 63 euros for testing purposes.
If I did not have that new Joying one, I might "try" a Dasaita.
Build quality: All Chinese models range from "moderate" to "bad" quality. There is a reason why they are 2x-3x cheaper. I do not think Joying is worse than the rest. I even think they are better than a lot of the unbranded models, who are indeed even cheaper. And again: From what I have heard is Dasaita better and therefore also more expensive.
W.r.t. support from Joying: They do support you. Sometimes it is very good, sometimes it is bad especially when they do not know it or do not have a solution. Then they "wriggle" without giving a firm statement.
But they do support you. When reading about all kind of other, especially the non-branded units, there is simply no support at all and they only speak Chinese.
Concluding: my choice would again be a Joying, or a Daisata.
But again: that is only theoretically as I have never done an in-depth study of multiple models.
Edit: Dasaita is MTC-D/E and therefore supported by the HAL9K and Malaysk custom ROMs, if that is what you want.
surfer63 said:
Hi,
I never give "buying advice" as I only know Joying and can't compare with others: there is no clear pro/con here. Some users prefer one brand, others another. 9 out of 10 only know "their own" brand and promote that one (something like: the more in one community, the more community support you might expect?). But you PMed me with the question about advice so I will give my 2 cents.
From what I have heard Dasaita (Hot Audio) seems qualitatively a bit better, but that's from hear-say. They are also slightly more expensive than the Joyings.
I now received the SC9853i unit from Joying for only 63 euros for testing purposes.
If I did not have that new Joying one, I might "try" a Dasaita.
Build quality: All Chinese models range from "moderate" to "bad" quality. There is a reason why they are 2x-3x cheaper. I do not think Joying is worse than the rest. I even think they are better than a lot of the unbranded models, who are indeed even cheaper. And again: From what I have heard is Dasaita better and therefore also more expensive.
W.r.t. support from Joying: They do support you. Sometimes it is very good, sometimes it is bad especially when they do not know it or do not have a solution. Then they "wriggle" without giving a firm statement.
But they do support you. When reading about all kind of other, especially the non-branded units, there is simply no support at all and they only speak Chinese.
Concluding: my choice would again be a Joying, or a Daisata.
But again: that is only theoretically as I have never done an in-depth study of multiple models.
Edit: Dasaita is MTC-D/E and therefore supported by the HAL9K and Malaysk custom ROMs, if that is what you want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the very informative reply! I'm sure other forum members will learn from it.
I'm actually a bit disappointed with Joying, the device has never left the car, and suddenly the screen stooped working intermittently. After reading a but about this issue, it appears that the intel Sofia units had some poor soldering of parts on the motherboard, and after contacting their support team, they recognized the problem and sent me a link to a video on YT showing that I can fix it by soldering a part on the motherboard. Unfortunately trying to do so left me with a totally non-functioning device.
The only thing that Joying offered was a 5% discount on a new unit, and I felt really uncomfortable to buy a new unit only after 3 units, when it was clearly a bad quality control issue.
For this, I will surely look into that other DASAITA units. From checking their latest models, they seem to be cased on PX6, while the newer Joying have the newer Airmont CPUs.
1) Do you think there will be much difference in terms of performance between PX6 and Airmont architecture? They both have 4GB of RAM.
2) Any idea if the DASAITA have the quick wake up from sleep as the joying units? This is an extremely useful feature, as you don't have to wait until the unit becomes usable.
3) Apart from the ability of installing custom ROMs, what is the advantage of having MTCx units?
4) Is the ZLINK solution provided in these units a good solution for having Android Auto? I've been using Android Headunit Reloaded and it has been really good.
5) Is the new built-in DSP available only in the latest Joying models?
Thanks again
KamaL said:
1) Do you think there will be much difference in terms of performance between PX6 and Airmont architecture? They both have 4GB of RAM.
2) Any idea if the DASAITA have the quick wake up from sleep as the joying units? This is an extremely useful feature, as you don't have to wait until the unit becomes usable.
3) Apart from the ability of installing custom ROMs, what is the advantage of having MTCx units?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. I don't think so. With 4GB everything runs smoothly and nothing is is taking those CPUs to the max as long as you do not play heavy games.
2. As far as I know (almost?) all newer MTCD/E models do also support quick wake up.
3. 10x more users (at least). 10X more knowledge (I think). All are compatible: per CPU-type/MCU type that is, so every PX6/MTCD is compatible with any other PX6/MTCD.
Look one level higher https://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/
And then check the MTCD forums. Read a bit more about them. They wil know about the quick startup.
Eventually I bought a unit from a local store, instead of dealing with shipping, customs etc...
It is made fekn FOXWAY, It has a PX6 RK3399 with 4gb of ram. I attached the settings page.
It doesn't have all day quick wake up, I can set it up to 2 hours, but after that it has to boot up. Although it's fast, I prefer for it to set it all the time as in joying units.
Also, I can't find a way to disable the touch or button beep sound, which is driving me.
Any ideas will be welcome.. View attachment 4927037
I have an old Pumpkin 7" MTCB unit I'm looking to replace (RK3188, 800X480 screen and I think 512MB RAM). I flashed Malaysk's ROM on it with Android 4.4.4 but it's really slow at this point so it needs to go. I've been looking at different options but I've been out of the loop for a while and I'm having a hard time comparing head units, mostly because of the different CPUs. I remember PX6 CPUs used to be the best but now there are plenty others that appear to have the same specs but are not called PX6 (they mostly just say octacore).
Also which brands seem to have the best track record so far? Dasaita used to be considered the best but I don't know if that's still the case. I've also seen a few units with automatic rotating screens, but I don't know if that would really be useful or more of a gimmick so if anybody has any experience with these please chime in.
Ideally I'd like to get a 10" screen with DSP and 4GB of RAM (I think 2GB of RAM would become too slow a lot sooner so I'd like to avoid it). My budget would be around $300 (I could go higher if it's really worth it) so please let me know your recommendations.
Thanks in advance.
FYT based 7862UIS 3GB or more. The MTCD units IMHO have been left behind.
You'll need to do some forum reading, it's all there
Hey all, I've been messing around with android for ages, I've built a head unit using a Nexus 7 running Timurs kernel. That's become fairly outdated now and I've discovered that I can buy one of the head units running android which does everything the nexus did but better.
But I am so out of the loop with all the terminology and it seems that there isn't an obvious Go-To brand.
I was hoping this forum could answer some questions that I'm sure a lot of people are asking. So,
What does MTCB, MTCD and FYT stand for, a basic explanation of them and why would you pick one over the other?
What are the most popular / widely accepted / most supported brands / models from each group?
I'm personally after a ~ 9 inch device I can use as a dash for my aftermarket PCM (RealDash is the app I'll use) that also has standard headunit features. I'm looking at a Joying unit but I want to know what my options are.
Thanks heaps for any information
Hopefully this can be made into a thread for new people to get the lowdown and basics of Android based head units.
I have had an ATOTO head unit for over a year now and I have been very pleased with it. I recently got a newer model that I will be swapping it out with soon.
ATOTO has the best value for features and performance on the market today. Their products are primarily sold on Amazon, and they also sell direct at https://store.myatoto.com/ . There are several reviews on Amazon and you can Google ATOTO reviews and read some independent ones as well. Overall, they come highly recommended. They have great customer support, but since they are overseas it is by email only with a 24-48 hour turnaround for a response. You can also search for ATOTO in the forums here and there are several threads.
I hope this helps...
I saw a video for beginners the other day on Youtube
He seems to have lots of other good videos.
I'm also new, even though I've used Joying for a decade.
It seems they all use the same image or build off a common base, like all units use a PX5 or PX6 rom image. I wonder if they build it themselves or where is the origin?
Atoto makes their own Android based custom ROM and UI, the current units are based on Android 10. Unfortunately, there is no resource I have found here to root this latest version. But, you can certainly install another UI like Nova Launcher and such.
BTW, their latest models have a 1024x600 IPS display with 178 degree viewing angle.
Atoto does not use these px5 or px6 images?
Ok, px5 and px6 are actually processors.
Then I guess what my next question is, do they build off a common Android for head units branch?
As in, I dont't think they all are branching the git repo of Android, instead of branching from some head unit branch?
This really ought to be a Wiki article (except XDA axed that) or a sticky. There are many people here who know a ton about Android but aren't conversant with head units. Most of the posts on this subforum have to do with specific problems for specific functions on specific units in specific cars. Not a great way to get an oversight.
Let me flesh out what I mean (from my naive knowledge and subject to correction/expansion):
Head units are composed of:
Chassis
Single DIN
Double DIN
Others?
Motherboard
STM32F microcontroller (usually?)
Speaker amplifier
FM radio tuner
WiFi interface
Bluetooth interface
Resistive steering wheel controls interface (2)
Serial interface to external, optional CAN BUS (OBDII) box
Rear view camera interface
GPS interface
Standardized? rear panel connectors
"Core board" (a pluggable, modular Android system) Often named after the Rockchip processor used, PX4, PX5, PX6. Is this the only format? Are these modules used for anything besides head units?
LCD/OLED Display
Renate said:
This really ought to be a Wiki article (except XDA axed that) or a sticky. There are many people here who know a ton about Android but aren't conversant with head units. Most of the posts on this subforum have to do with specific problems for specific functions on specific units in specific cars. Not a great way to get an oversight.
Let me flesh out what I mean (from my naive knowledge and subject to correction/expansion):
Head units are composed of:
Chassis
Single DIN
Double DIN
Car specific formats
Motherboard
STM32F, MTC*, CSN*, CSM*, FYT, RK7* and a couple of older and outdated boards still sold
Speaker amplifier
FM radio tuner
WiFi interface
Bluetooth interface
Resistive steering wheel controls interface (2)
Serial interface to external, optional CAN BUS (OBDII) box
Rear view camera interface
GPS interface
Standardized? rear panel connectors (no standard, as there are 30-pin, 21-pin, ISO and Quadlock connectors)
"Core board" (a pluggable, modular Android system) Often named after the Rockchip processor used, PX4, PX5, PX6. Is this the only format? (No, also some kind of ALLWINNER boards mainly acting with 8227L chipsets, Intel...) Are these modules used for anything besides head units? (not really, because they are just some sort of "reader" for the main board, the communication between the hardware and Android is completely different from any other Android device.)
LCD/OLED Display (and resistive an capacitive displays)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my comments inline in red..
That is not that easy with these units.
The most important thing here is, that thread starter do not use the search function, which leads to a lot of duplicated threads. There needs to be a clear instruction to use the search and how to figure out which sub-forum to ask in, means the thread starter needs to know the facts of his unit in front....
As we see in the MTC and this forum, we often have to ask about MCU and Chipset and that leads often in asking the mods for moving the threads into the right forum.
If you ask me: I have no real idea how to get that structured in a way that someone who has the knowledge is able to help without check backs for details.
If you have a look at this forum, you might find some dozen of threads regarding the same MCU/Chipset... really not ideal.
famadorian said:
I saw a video for beginners the other day on Youtube
He seems to have lots of other good videos.
I'm also new, even though I've used Joying for a decade.
It seems they all use the same image or build off a common base, like all units use a PX5 or PX6 rom image. I wonder if they build it themselves or where is the origin?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been watching this guy's videos as well, but can't helped getting the feeling he is being heavily sponsored by brands like Joying.
Also: I personally don't believe, that a octacore head-unit is necessarily. There a plenty of Quad-Core ARM A7 headunits out there, which are below €$£ 150 where as the octacore units are way more expensive.
€ 110,61 50%OFF | Ekiy T7 Qled Dsp Android Auto Radio Voor Suzuki Celerio Alto 2014 - 2018 Stereo Auto Multimedia Video Speler 2din carplay Gps Navi
https://a.aliexpress.com/_vE6we4
So personally I opted for a € 150 unit, featuring a 720P IPS screen, 2GB of RAM and 32GB storage and Apple Carplay and Android Auto support. The last one seemly is called AA, although AA is also the road assistance in the United Kingdom....
Anyway most people will tell you not to buy a Quad-Core unit, but I did it nevertheless. These units are in a way quite similar like the Nexus 7, which has a Cortex A9 instead of Cortex A7. The last one being one of the most energy efficient chipsets.... isn't that important as well for a car?
The Nexus 7 had a 800x1280 screen, and 1GB of RAM and worked just fine. Until the storage got screwed up.... I still have mine, but it doesn't seem to do much anymore.
One thing to consider: when using mainly Android Auto or Apple Carplay, than in theory even a 1GB RAM unit would be fine. I believe he tested some of these as well.... they where quite impressive for the money. Also technology is way better, than a few years ago. Even though it seems there hasn't been much going on at the budget side...
But budget head-units below € 150 used to be way worse: a few years ago I couldn't even find a single unit for my car, below € 250. Now it starts at € 110 with a completely integrated frame. Of course I would suggest adding € 40 more and getting atleast the unit with 2GB of RAM.
DexterMorganNL said:
I have been watching this guy's videos as well, but can't helped getting the feeling he is being heavily sponsored by brands like Joying.
Also: I personally don't believe, that a octacore head-unit is necessarily. There a plenty of Quad-Core ARM A7 headunits out there, which are below €$£ 150 where as the octacore units are way more expensive.
€ 110,61 50%OFF | Ekiy T7 Qled Dsp Android Auto Radio Voor Suzuki Celerio Alto 2014 - 2018 Stereo Auto Multimedia Video Speler 2din carplay Gps Navi
https://a.aliexpress.com/_vE6we4
So personally I opted for a € 150 unit, featuring a 720P IPS screen, 2GB of RAM and 32GB storage and Apple Carplay and Android Auto support. The last one seemly is called AA, although AA is also the road assistance in the United Kingdom....
Anyway most people will tell you not to buy a Quad-Core unit, but I did it nevertheless. These units are in a way quite similar like the Nexus 7, which has a Cortex A9 instead of Cortex A7. The last one being one of the most energy efficient chipsets.... isn't that important as well for a car?
The Nexus 7 had a 800x1280 screen, and 1GB of RAM and worked just fine. Until the storage got screwed up.... I still have mine, but it doesn't seem to do much anymore.
One thing to consider: when using mainly Android Auto or Apple Carplay, than in theory even a 1GB RAM unit would be fine. I believe he tested some of these as well.... they where quite impressive for the money. Also technology is way better, than a few years ago. Even though it seems there hasn't been much going on at the budget side...
But budget head-units below € 150 used to be way worse: a few years ago I couldn't even find a single unit for my car, below € 250. Now it starts at € 110 with a completely integrated frame. Of course I would suggest adding € 40 more and getting atleast the unit with 2GB of RAM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is your personal thing.
I don´t recommend to buy such a QuadCore thing, as it is lame as hell, does not support deep sleep, does not provide any support in case there is something wrong with the unit. This, I already wrote to you in another thread.
Please don´t recommend such a nonsense as there are top units available for around 200-250 Euro/USD. It is may be okayish for you, but the majority wants and needs something which does not need these stupid AA or this Carplay.
To use any head unit just as a monitor for Android Auto or Apple Carplay is just a bit hard to understand, as the units with at least a PX5 has more functionality as Android Auto or Carplay would ever be able to provide.
Buy this overpriced unit with a QuadCore and I would really hope that we don´t read that you buyed just BS.
Well it's your personal opinion as well.... it ain't facts.... and it isn't overpriced. The euro is just very weak on the moment, one euro is only $ 0,99 I saw last time.
Ah well have fun with your expensive Chinese Android head-unit, I bet they break as fast as the cheaper ones and there won't be any difference when using Android Auto. And please stop calling it AA, because it's confusing as in British English that's how they call the road assistance. How do you call Apple Carplay then? AC? That's your air conditioner
For € 300 I can buy a JVC: so why the heck spend this kind off money, on a Chinese Android head-unit?
Anyway Saab Unleashed also tested an cheap ARM A7 unit, and it's just fine. This being even a unit with 1GB RAM and only 16GB storage. Also no 720P screen. It really depends on your own usage, how the experience with such a unit is.
Not all Android applications need so much processing. And also I don't believe it's a fact that these units don't support deep sleep. Because there is still a lot of difference between ARM A7 Android head-units. A quick search on Google learns, that deep sleep is supported within the ARM A7 chipset.
And it's not like that Joying or any other brand, is in the league of a Chinese brand like Xiaomi. So yes I rather go for a cheaper Android head-unit, even though it comes with a slower but very energy efficient chipset. Energy efficiency is also very important.
Oh and all Chinese goods bought directly from China, don't provide the warranty you are used to for example in Europe. If I buy a JVC unit, for € 300 than I can be sure to have warranty for atleast 2 years. An Chinese Android head-unit, no matter which price only provides warranty as long as the AlliExpress buyer protection lasts!
DexterMorganNL said:
One thing to consider: when using mainly Android Auto or Apple Carplay...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This reinforces what I've been saying. This whole subforum is an inbred world only with difficulty accessible to a non-auto Android user (or even developer).
I presume from the above quote that those things are basically equivalent to Roku screen mirroring with some bells and whistles thrown in?
Renate said:
This reinforces what I've been saying. This whole subforum is an inbred world only with difficulty accessible to a non-auto Android user (or even developer).
I presume from the above quote that those things are basically equivalent to Roku screen mirroring with some bells and whistles thrown in?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that's usually the case isn't it? But I just recently heard about Roku, saw those streaming sticks lying in a Germany Saturn. Didn't know what it was, but I guess it's something like Amazon Fire stick?
But actually the cheapest vehicle specific headunits, don't even come with Apple Carplay or Android auto support. I considered getting the cheapest one, as they are all able to use native Android apps.
Only I was concerned, that 1GB RAM would not be enough to atleast run Google Maps and Spotify on the same time. So I looked further, compared multiple sellers. Mostly all offering the same ****....
So I was surprised that Ekiy, was offering a unit that came with a 720P IPS screen. While other resellers, sell these kind of units with a 1024x600 TN Screen.