[Q] is there any way to "enhance" the BT in the Bionic?

[Q] is there any way to "enhance" the BT in the Bionic? - Motorola Droid Bionic

Bought a MetaWatch Strata on clearance from Best Buy for $40. Without a link to the phone, it's not even a very good watch, but it won't BT sync with my Bionic.
Just for some data points, it won't link with my Amazon Kindle HDX 7 (with Google Play Store hacked in)
But it will link with my Nexus 7 tablet (2013 model w/ rear cam).
But I can't exactly WEAR a tablet around, can I?
Checked with MetaWatch forums and we came to the conclusion that the watch really really needs BT4, or something about "SPP Profile"?
I know the phone's too old to have BT hacks, but here's a bit of ancillary question: is there a way to get a full enumeration of BT capabilities of a device? or do I have to look for it on Moto's website?

Related

My Streak 7 Dock thoughts.

Well I finally bought the Streak docking station. I havent hooked it up to HDMI yet so I cant tell you about that yet.
What I can tell you is.. the plastic holder part.. The clear thing you insert, I dont know, I mean seems solid enough but I cant help but feel that it could break, I dont know. That and things make a odd sound when you jiggle the tablet while its docked.
Aside from that, GOD this dock is nice. I mean its angled just right for doing things, visibility is great! Good for video watching and so. Also playing finger based games like angry birds, this thing runs great. Also least it can charge separately from the usb connection to the PC. All I need to find now is a way to access my network files to play videos remotely and I am set. =D

I agree on the dock being nice. I bought two, one for in the office and the other at home. The dock mode of the streak can be a bit annoying at times especially when you lock the tablet with a pin. Posting via Galaxy S as waiting on replacement streak 7 from Dell. Still love the Streak though not working right now.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA Premium App

Btw I havent tested this part yet with HDMI, If you hook it up, do your games show up on the TV? Would be cool to have your emulators displaying on the TV. Heh.

Hmmm.... I think I might give the dock a try. I have a few extra HDMI cables laying around. I'll try it out and post what happens.

I've had the dock for about 2 weeks now. Works great, HDMI looks decent, not HD obviously, but it looks good and I am able to watch movies on my 56inch with no problems.... To me it was worth it, you can get them for cheap on ebay just to let everyone know.

Mysticales said:
Btw I havent tested this part yet with HDMI, If you hook it up, do your games show up on the TV? Would be cool to have your emulators displaying on the TV. Heh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Forgot to mention that everything DOES show up on your TV. I have been playing super mario world a couple nights a week now lol

How can I buy this dock in Vietnam???

I picked up one these docks on eBay for $50 w/ a OEM car charger.
Nice solid feel on the dock but sometimes I wish it had a mode where you could have a case on & have it nicely dock as well...
HDMI out is a nice +

I just wished it worked with Honeystreak. I hope dell releases honeycomb because I love using my doc to watch movies in the bedroom.

Hello
I'm new owner of Streak 7 - from Poland. I'm looking for one dock station for my S7 to be able to play hdmi on my tv. Problem is, that in Poland it's hard to get a dock.
Maybe anyone of you is about to sell one and could send it to Poland?
Thank you in advance

keith.valdez said:
I just wished it worked with Honeystreak. I hope dell releases honeycomb because I love using my doc to watch movies in the bedroom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait the honeycomb rom doesnt work on it? That sounds odd or a flaw, did you tell Steve?
mechanizator said:
Hello
I'm new owner of Streak 7 - from Poland. I'm looking for one dock station for my S7 to be able to play hdmi on my tv. Problem is, that in Poland it's hard to get a dock.
Maybe anyone of you is about to sell one and could send it to Poland?
Thank you in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say check ebay. Most people ship everywhere.
Also yea, playing emulators works great on it. Also another perk.. if you use wiimote IME. You could have your streak docked, away from you and you can use the wii mote or classic controller to move the menu around too and open apps and so. Very handy.

HDMI out on stand w/Dell Streak
Mysticales said:
Wait the honeycomb rom doesnt work on it? That sounds odd or a flaw, did you tell Steve?
I would say check ebay. Most people ship everywhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have had some strange issues with with getting HDMI working on various DJ Steve's build but I chalked that up just not be official?
I'm running
StreakDroid HD7-2.0 R1
I think that is the latest...
anyone else having any issues? I'm sure the "offical" build will support it... I'm sure...

I'm running his HC build and it works fine for the most part. I can't get rid of the bottom status bar, and in comparison to my Logitech Revue, the Revue streams Amazon video much smoother and the PQ seems to be better as well. I'm usng the stock browser and I get a few video freezes where the sound keeps going, had some lip sync issues, and some other minor things. He Revue
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App

i need a dock and data cable for streak 7 in pakistan,,, is thr any way i can get 1.???

Maybe. Tried Ebay or Amazon? Alot of people will ship worldwide.

what are some alternatives to the official dock like the g2 slacker? looking for something under $20 as both the official dock and the g2 dock go for at least 30 on ebay.

g2 slacker, while "looks" like same port, I doubt it is. Or would work. If you need a cheap alt,
http://www.amazon.com/Aftermarket-P..._1_1?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1334806828&sr=1-1
HOWEVER I should mention these docks DO NOT have hdmi! So they will charge, and seperate cable to sync. However.. a dell streak dock without hdmi.. seems silly..? I know for me.. hook to HDMI, Use BT keyboard/touchpad (and I can run dos!) or BT gamepad and I can run emulators. Thats nice on a TV. =)

The slacker dock only supports USB-IN, it doesnt support anything else on the S5/S7
Things missing from the slacker dock (that's available on the 2nd gen official dock):
Line-out
USB-in (ie OTG)
USB-high speed charing
HDMI-out
Dock sense (where the device automatically goes into clock mode)
The slacker dock has a headphone out, but the S5/S7 dont support it either (it may not have the pins for that, if it does it's different anyway). The slacker dock also has pads for USB-in, but that model was never officially made available(?).
Also I would STRONGLY recommend against a slacker dock for the S7 (if you can even find one), the S5 is a lot lighter then the S7.
The S7 barely fits on it, but it has absolutely no support besides the port itself.
The S5 already places all it's weight on the dock port, the S7 is asking to be broken by any accidentical impact.
If you are willing (or can find it at a reasonable price), I would strongly recommend the official 2nd gen dock for either the S5/S7.
It includes 2 backplates to support either model.
Also, the S5 dock in the previous link likely wont fit the S7, that's the reason the official dock comes with 2 backplates.
Your only real choice for the S7 is the official 2nd gen dock.

Oh fyi, amazon has it on sale right now for 30$ the official one.

Are we sure the Offical Dell Dock has OTG?! I can't find documentation on that AT ALL.

Would you trade for a new Galaxy Tab?

Got a NC for son and it's awesome on CM7 on eemc and OC at 1325 Mhz! Enjoyed it and the community and just ordered a refurb for myself (overstock.com $185 with coupon).
Then I saw Galaxy Tab 3g refurb for $270 and had some buyers remorse. Read some more reviews and comparisons, and tab usually comes out ahead (don't think their NC's are fully optimized to latest).
Can live w/o camera and GPS (have GPS tether). Get buy with soft buttons. NC has better screen (actually liking the dpi now after adjusting), better build and better dev I think (CM7 and such). My Sammy Epic's dev is limited by their touchwiz framework...
What would u say?
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA Premium App

the tab is a better tablet, BUT its not $100 better, if your spending the amount for a tab then spend a little more for a real tablet.
does the NC not do all that you wish?

Personally, no. Yes, the Tab has a better CPU/GPU, but not enough to sway me (my nook plays all my games quite well); like you I don't need the camera and GPS, so there is nothing else for me.
Now, if both tablets were the same price when i was shopping, the decision might have been different. But as it is now, i do not regret the nook one bit.

I was going to say "of course" because I thought by "New Galaxy Tab" you meant the new galaxy tab.
But - you mean the old galaxy tab. So, no, I wouldn't trade. I like the Nook build and screen better. Even though I nerd out on nightly builds and custom kernels and the like, I use my nook primarily as a reader with bonus features, and I really don't think it gets much better for my purposes.

NewZJ said:
does the NC not do all that you wish?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm thinking that bluetooth is a bigger issue for me which is why I'm still on the fence about the NC vs other Tablets (including the Tab). I would like to watch movies/videos on the NC but the sound is so terrible that a BT headset or external BT speakers would satisfy me. I could never get the BT to work though. Thoughts on that?

angelostudios said:
I'm thinking that bluetooth is a bigger issue for me which is why I'm still on the fence about the NC vs other Tablets (including the Tab). I would like to watch movies/videos on the NC but the sound is so terrible that a BT headset or external BT speakers would satisfy me. I could never get the BT to work though. Thoughts on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good pt about the speakers. I poot "nook tweaks" on my son's and the sound seems better. Haven't tried with headphones but it will prob be ok.
Check the dev thread... I think bluetooth is comming around. Not sure what capabilities are.
The week I was setting up my sons... I found myself using it a lot, instead of my phone... saving battery.
Question: what burns more phone battery, using it for surfing, or keeping the screen of with wifi tether on?
Question: I wonder if that Tab required some kind of Sprint activation? That's a deal killer when I have wifi-tether!
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA Premium App

I have both the NC and Galaxy Tab 7 (wifi) and am selling my galaxy tab...there is virtually no support for it (the wifi version) in any community, the bluetooth is so locked down that you can't do much more than a headset (no HID) and the interface looks pretty cartoonish in my opinion (along with no launchers working from the market). I know that there are 3 different versions of the Tab, so this is my experience with the wifi version, but I'm much happier with my nook. And with CM7.0.3 it's better than ever! The next version should be hitting soon, as the nightlys have reached right about 100, which should have a lot of upgrades.
As for bluetooth, I personally have no problem getting a headset to work (not the mic of course) in CM7 as long as you follow some of the "shortcuts" to get it to work.

Lol... No. Next upgrade will be a cheap tegra 2 (after prices drop during the holiday season) or a tegra 3 from Amazon ;p.

A big no. There are too many varieties and too few roms. There are more than one GSM version, more than one CDMA version and the wifi version doesn't even use the Tegra. I would be better to wait for the Amazon tablet.

angelostudios said:
I'm thinking that bluetooth is a bigger issue for me which is why I'm still on the fence about the NC vs other Tablets (including the Tab). I would like to watch movies/videos on the NC but the sound is so terrible that a BT headset or external BT speakers would satisfy me. I could never get the BT to work though. Thoughts on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh? BT has been working for some time now. I use a Jabra SP700 with my nook every day to and from work. The nook is mounted like a GPS on the windshield, and the SP700 is clipped to the sun visor. Range has not been an issue, and the sound quality is great (i use the SP700's FM transmitter, so i have the nook playing over the stereo.

nobody use headphones anymore?

I have a review unit for the (actual) new Galaxy Tab 10.1 and I still don't know if I'd replace my personal Nook color with it. It is very impressive spec wise and plays things great, but the Nook being at most half the price of the new Tab means the Nook is a great value for a basic tablet.
Sent from my HTC Incredible using the XDA app.
Please visit my blog about technology and reviews: http://coolrandomtechstuff.blogspot.com

Are you running CM7 from the sd? I suppose I will check the forum again, but as I said... I could never get my headset or speakers to pair.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App

nook
Well, I guess nook is more fun... and the body style is so much better and thinner than galaxy tab.. and i did play with the honeycomb. it seems honeycomb still got a lot bugs and not being develop as well as gingerbread...
Donny

angelostudios said:
Are you running CM7 from the sd? I suppose I will check the forum again, but as I said... I could never get my headset or speakers to pair.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, i am running on eMMC; and have been able to pair it since BT support came out. I am not sure what device you have specifically, but i know for sure others have used headsets with ease. I would try again..

I had some trouble getting BT to turn on when I was running CM7.0.3 from SD--sometimes I had to turn off Wi-Fi, reboot the NC, then turn on BT, then Wi-Fi, at which point they would play nice. Since I moved to eMMC (and have also been running the CM7.1beta + recent nightlies), BT has been flawless with no more jumping through hoops and reliable connections to my phone and wiimote.
As for the two different questions in the OP, would I trade my NC for the new Galaxy Tab? Probably, because I could sell the Galaxy Tab and buy a new NC and a new phone with the proceeds However, would I return a $185 NC and then buy a $270 Tab refurb? Probably not. My number one use for the NC is still as a reader, including comics, and you can't beat that screen.

Taosaur said:
I had some trouble getting BT to turn on when I was running CM7.0.3 from SD--sometimes I had to turn off Wi-Fi, reboot the NC, then turn on BT, then Wi-Fi, at which point they would play nice. Since I moved to eMMC (and have also been running the CM7.1beta + recent nightlies), BT has been flawless with no more jumping through hoops and reliable connections to my phone and wiimote.
As for the two different questions in the OP, would I trade my NC for the new Galaxy Tab? Probably, because I could sell the Galaxy Tab and buy a new NC and a new phone with the proceeds However, would I return a $185 NC and then buy a $270 Tab refurb? Probably not. My number one use for the NC is still as a reader, including comics, and you can't beat that screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the feedback... I haven't tried installing eMMC so I may give that a shot. I listen to a lot of audiobooks WHILE I read or while I cook. The BT really will make this what I want.
As for the Tab vs NC - I like the way you put it. I think I'll stick with mine until the Asus Transformer has been around a bit longer.

angelostudios said:
I'm thinking that bluetooth is a bigger issue for me which is why I'm still on the fence about the NC vs other Tablets (including the Tab). I would like to watch movies/videos on the NC but the sound is so terrible that a BT headset or external BT speakers would satisfy me. I could never get the BT to work though. Thoughts on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Caveat: I don't have a NC ...YET!
However, from my research , have you or anyone else tried the program in this thread?

Snoshrk said:
Caveat: I don't have NC ...YET!
However, from my research , have you or anyone else tried the program in this thread?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I think 99% of the people here use it or apps like it. Overclocking to 1300 (and beyond for some- 1200 is most stable all around). The Nook tweaks app is more for customized stepping and more importantly, LOUDER sound. A huge complaint was that the speaker was way too quiet, with or without headphones. I can confirm this fixed that easily...and for free.
A rooter NC (stock rooted or CM7) is still hands down the best bang for your buck.

Nope. The only feature I would want is the webcam. With the 1200 MHz kernal 512 megs ram and cm7 nightlies, I cat imagine anything more fun. Cheap too!
Besides, I really don't like Samsung either. From what I've heard, they make Foxconn look like a day at the beach.

Motorola Car dock

Hi
Has anyone seen an official Car dock for the Razr i ?
I found a Razr M dock on amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Vehi..._11?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1350308561&sr=1-11
It should be fully compatible with the Razr i, but not shipped outside US.
I Hope Motorola will sell the same here for our Razr i. I own a Defy + the official car dock and love the quality of it. Will buy a Motorola one for the Razr i without any hesitation

I answer to myself.
For those who are interested by a good car mount, the Razr M official fit 100% with Razr i.. as expected.
I ordered one on Ebay, got it today.
Can be used even with a case (3 sizes: without case, with a fine one, or with a large one)
Only thing that bother me: no car dock detection. SmartAction or Tasker doesn't detects the dock. Maybe it's not activate on this early rom we have, as Motorola doesn't sell on official dock for the Razr i.
Now I use a Tasker profil launched by a shortcut, but I wait for some NFC tag I ordered to do this

Motorola has said it won't be making a car dock (but I suspected that M one would work). Whyever not? The RAZR i is shipping in many markets and Intel is keen to promote it. It has fairly good distribution too.
It's as odd as Asus/Google deciding not to release the dock for the Nexus 7; a tablet selling by the truck load and winning awards left, right and centre - with new life thanks to more storage and 3G variants!
Sometimes I do wonder about the sanity of those in charge!

jonmorris said:
Sometimes I do wonder about the sanity of those in charge!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh yeah... 100% with you...

I don't get what your problem is, if the Razr M dock fits perfectly, why don't you just get this one?
A possible Razr I dock would be just the same anyway.

They're not exactly freely available here (UK) though and how many will Motorola sell, given the official UK line is there is no dock for the phone?
I bet loads of people will import one at great cost and fear no support if they have problems (Moto UK saying it's not designed to work with it).
The RAZR i is Motorola's best chance all year of getting back into the game and the lack of accessories seems rather dumb to me.

The Razr M car dock is available on ebay and ships worldwide.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/OEM-MOTOR...ccessories&hash=item257664e30d#ht_5310wt_1271
It's quite expensive though..

I might try that but I am sure most wouldn't. If it failed, would Motorola UK/EMEA honour the warranty?

HomerSimpson07 said:
I don't get what your problem is, if the Razr M dock fits perfectly, why don't you just get this one?
A possible Razr I dock would be just the same anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you dock the phone it should be detected, and be able to launch car mode (with smart action, or tasker).
With a razr m it's working, I asked on the razr m section... Not with the I.
So what think about this: maybe it's just a software issue, Motorola hasn't activate the sensor on the I
But, maybe there's no sensor on the I and it would never work as it should.
But there's a workaround by using nfc
Just sad to see there's some decision made that are out of sens: why not selling a car dock for the I when there's one 100% identical for the m?

I use Smart Actions to trigger vehicle mode when it connects to my car kit.

You can do this, but there's a flaw
Smart action will only bring up car app, but not set "car mode" on.
Explanation : when car mode is ON, when you hit the home button you go to the car app. If car mode is not "on", home button act as normal and bring you on the default launcher.. With is not very practical when you drive.
And for me, blutooth is off until I'm docked, I launche the bt, gps, etc while docking the phone.
Yesterday I receive my nfc tag... It's working pretty well with Tasker. (nfc use less battery than bt always on)

Yes that is an issue. I have a few Sony Smart tags so I'll set one of those up instead.
I am sure it will be a simple software issue, but Moto obviously decided early on it wasn't going to make accessories.
Given Google's input (stripping away almost all Moto apps, Webtop, HDMI out) and Google's lack of accessories for the Nexus 7 (I wonder if this will also be the case for the Nexus 4 and 10?) I wonder if there's a theme here?

Brodit
as a long time Brodit (www.brodit.se) user I wondered what to do using their mount in my car.
Actually I used their universal holder part 511230 which fits nicely. Only issue was the USB port was covered on the side so I used my multitool..... see attached pics.
Regards,
KalleH

you may wait Brodit release a Razr M/i support.
For sur they'll do it.

Le_Poilu said:
you may wait Brodit release a Razr M/i support.
For sur they'll do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I asked them about it but they did not say they would do one....at least this is good enough "for the interim" for me......

Razr i Spot with Auto Vehicle Detected
http://www.razri.com/uk/ (scroll to SmartActions)

Yep
Smartaction has a trigger for car dock, since beginning.
But at this time it doesn't detect the dock.
But there was an update of smartaction recently (via Play store), maybe did they add the support... I'll try it asap.

Motorola support say to me, delete the cardock app cache and test again. Test is fail
The german instructions say, that a shortcuts can be on Homescreen.

kalleh said:
Well, I asked them about it but they did not say they would do one....at least this is good enough "for the interim" for me......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had asked them if they'd be creating a holder for the RAZR i/M shortly after the RAZR i came out, and they stated there were no plans to. Alas, one of the main blocking issues for me for picking up one of these (along with the lack of custom ROM progress.. )

Hello!
I have found a workaround for the Car-Dock app launcher.
Install Car dock home v3 from playStore
Install this app:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=18557944&postcount=6
Try docking your Razr I in the Car-Dock. It should ask you wich app you want to use. select the Motorola App. And it should start as soon you put your phone into the dock.
Made a video how i tested it. Actually I don't own the dock, but i will get it in a couple of days. There is a magnet in my laptop as you see. Thats how it also worked with my old Milestone 2.
http://youtu.be/KTGEL0Mv9wU

Android Auto vs Android Head Unit?

I have seen some threads where people are talking about porting android auto to an android head unit. I have also seen some threads where people are talking about putting android auto on a tablet or phone that they plan to mount in their car. Maybe I'm missing something, but I don't understand the rationale for either of these. If you have an android head unit, don't you already have all of the capabilities of android auto built into your head unit? Similarly if you are going to mount a phone or tablet on your dash then why not use those apps that are already native to your phone/tablet?
The reason I ask is because I'm in the market for a new car stereo and the differences in cost between an aftermarket head unit with android auto and an android head unit (i.e. no-name chinese brand, etc) seem quite large. I've seen the reviews on here, Youtube and other places for some of the Chinese units and they seem very feature rich. Please help me make a list of pros and cons to buying a head unit with Android Auto and an Android Head Unit. Here are just a few that I can come up with.
Android Auto Pros:
- brand name likely with superior product support
- likely better stock stereo features (HD radio, RDS, Sirius XM, etc
- it is "safer" because it doesn't allow searching long music lists, etc while driving
- As long as the firmware can be updated to include later Android versions, when you want to update your Android phone its a lot easier than updating an entire stereo when a newer version of Android on Android HUs become available.
Android Auto Cons:
- Not all phones are supported from what I understand
- Some popular apps are not supported (i.e. Pandora
- Requires phone to be connected via USB. I'm not sure if this is necessarily a con however, because I'm assuming if you are using your phone as a hotspot you may need to have it plugged in regardless.
- While I'm not sure about this (correct me if I'm wrong), but I assume since you're mirroring your phone apps to a non-android device there is another layer of technology that can have bugs in and of itself
- Requires additional apps on your phone eating up space and resources
- relatively expensive
Android Head Unit Pros:
- No need for specific phone support
- Any app you can download on the app store you can use in your dash. Not that I'm going to be watching netflix driving down the road, but maybe my passenger wants to look up a good mexican restaurant on Yelp while we're driving.
- You can use a wifi hotspot other than your phone to provide the wireless signal if you want
- You can root these if they are not already rooted and run custom rom
- You can run Torque
- relatively cheap for what you get
Android Head Unit Cons:
- It seems like most of these are Chinese brands with little product support from the [unkknown] manufacture
- many complaints about internal mics and whatnot (although thanks to sites like this there are some workarounds for that)
- I'm guessing the quality of the stereo itself is probably not as good as when you purchase US brand name deck.
I can understand why the general public (mom, dad included) might see a benefit in having a car with an OEM-included Android Auto stereo if they're already using an Android phone and they like it. However for people who frequent this site, barring intellectual curiosity or being an audiophile who needs a top-of-the-line Pioneer deck and wants to be able to make hands-free calls or use Google Maps, I want to know why you all would choose a stereo with Android Auto vs an Android Head Unit. Thanks in advance for discussing this.

For me, I have yet to see an Android head unit without deal breaking issues. Crappy in-call experience, radio, music setup and performance, Bluetooth, etc.
I just don't need that when I'm driving. I do miss not having Torque on AA, but it's just not worth putting up with all the other issues in order to have it.
Trust me, if someone made an Android head unit that was like a Nexus with a decent audio section, I'd be all over it, but it doesn't exist. I have thought about putting a tablet in my truck with a good preamp and amps, but there are too many issues, not the least of which is not being able to see it with polarized shades on.

Solutions Etcetera said:
For me, I have yet to see an Android head unit without deal breaking issues. Crappy in-call experience, radio, music setup and performance, Bluetooth, etc.
I just don't need that when I'm driving. I do miss not having Torque on AA, but it's just not worth putting up with all the other issues in order to have it.
Trust me, if someone made an Android head unit that was like a Nexus with a decent audio section, I'd be all over it, but it doesn't exist. I have thought about putting a tablet in my truck with a good preamp and amps, but there are too many issues, not the least of which is not being able to see it with polarized shades on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all you can probably mount your Nexus tablet in landscape - as long as the screen is perpendicular to your shades than the polarized lens' wont matter.
But please expand on "all the other issues." Since you talk about putting a good preamp and amps in your car I assume that the sound quality is a big factor for you. Are the Android HUs that bad? What if you wire one line-out to an amp? Are the signals so much worse than a factory or name-brand aftermarket stereo that if you had a high quality amplifier it would still be very poor? I'm being serious here because I've never used one of these chinese HUs... I just saw some video reviews on YouTube of a couple of them and they looked pretty awesome. What AA stereo do you currently have, and how do you like it? Thanks

Having installed another "Hui Fei"-style 4.4 head unit on a Ford Ranger XLT (2000) as a replacement for the aging stock radio, it's not bad at all. Google Maps, Pandora, Radio (via MCU), and Bluetooth all worked out of the box, even with an iPhone in hotspot mode. Touchscreen was rather accurate and snappy, the slightly larger DPI mode helped when sitting afar; it may be annoying with some apps, but tools allow you to change the DPI mode.
Build quality is usually fine, buttons are solid and knobs aren't loose. Sometimes used/eBay units have non-working buttons, so be wary about that.
The particular unit I got had an external Mic input (phono 3.5mm), so calls worked just fine over BT after mounting a nicer PC mic. Many units also have line-level outputs if you hate the built-in tech and want to use some aftermarket amps/speakers.
I do have to say that the 20-30 second boot time might be offputting to some, but I don't find it to be too bad, specially since backup camera works via MCU, and therefore during boot.

kjdBonez said:
First of all you can probably mount your Nexus tablet in landscape - as long as the screen is perpendicular to your shades than the polarized lens' wont matter.
But please expand on "all the other issues." Since you talk about putting a good preamp and amps in your car I assume that the sound quality is a big factor for you. Are the Android HUs that bad? What if you wire one line-out to an amp? Are the signals so much worse than a factory or name-brand aftermarket stereo that if you had a high quality amplifier it would still be very poor? I'm being serious here because I've never used one of these chinese HUs... I just saw some video reviews on YouTube of a couple of them and they looked pretty awesome. What AA stereo do you currently have, and how do you like it? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In landscape, with Drivewears (what I wear), you can't see it at all.
There is also the fact that a tablet is not designed to withstand being in a locked up car when it is 100 degrees outside. Not interested in coming out of work seeing my car on fire because the battery exploded. Not good for the screen either.
Could remove the battery for a straight power connection, but boot time is too long, and there are still screen issues.
And touch targets can be very small with a lot of apps interfaces, making it a real distraction when driving, and no interface with steering wheel controls.
As for 'other' issues with Android clone units; bugs. They're all over the place and you never know what issue will crop up when you're driving; no thanks.
I have a pioneer 4100 nex. And even it isn't perfect on AA. Occasionally there are issues with audio feeds and or controls, but for the most part it's solid.

kjdBonez said:
I want to know why you all would choose a stereo with Android Auto vs an Android Head Unit. Thanks in advance for discussing this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How about a "best of all worlds" solution ?
I haven't tried it myself yet, but the paid ($30 ?) AppRadio Unchained Reloaded app allows HDMI+USB mirroring on many Pioneer HUs: http://forum.xda-developers.com/general/paid-software/android-4-0-root-appradio-unchained-t2955966
Run it with a Pioneer Android Auto (AA) HU and you can choose between AA and true/full mirroring of any Android phone (or tablet/other device) you use. Requires a plugged phone for AA or Android mirroring however, but with the option of AM/FM/HD/CD/MP3 etc. standalone.
I have a 4100 NEX and it seems competent for USD $550 or so these days.

kjdBonez said:
I have seen some threads where people are talking about porting android auto to an android head unit. I have also seen some threads where people are talking about putting android auto on a tablet or phone that they plan to mount in their car. Maybe I'm missing something, but I don't understand the rationale for either of these. If you have an android head unit, don't you already have all of the capabilities of android auto built into your head unit? Similarly if you are going to mount a phone or tablet on your dash then why not use those apps that are already native to your phone/tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android enthusiasts with a budget consider MANY details and tradeoffs before deciding on a new phone or tablet. Do I NEED NFC ? Can I make do without an SDCard and only 32 GB ? What size is best ?...
Similarly, those of us looking for automotive infotainment solutions have a complex set of needs and desires, and many different solutions all with their own pros and cons, as your post shows...
A person running my Headunit app for Android Auto (AA) on a phone or tablet, with or without another connected phone/tablet/device can get the integrated Android Auto experience at low, or no cost.
Run the app on your existing Android 5+ device in standalone mode and you've got AA for no additional cost. Or buy a Nexus 7 2013 for $150 new, run it standalone, or USB (or Wifi) connect to your phone. Quick, simple, cheap and upgradeable/hackable. Add a $20 car mount and a cheap cigar lighter outlet charger and plug it in.
Want better sound than crappy small speakers ? Plug headphone jack or do BT connect to an existing amp or HU.
Worried about theft or frying by cold or hot temperatures ? Remove phone/tablet from mount and take it with you when parked. $150 tablet breaks ? Buy a new one...
With my Headunit app for AA, you can "Recent Apps" away to home-screen and any other app. Then go back to the AA environment. Yes, some issues like sound require stopping and later restarting my app, but that's not so bad.
Some people will like the integrated, low distraction environment of AA.
Many Android enthusiasts will prefer the ability to easily run any Android app. Some of those apps may be very distracting, and WILL get you ticketed in many jurisdictions. Youtube is going to be "frowned on" at best by almost any cop.
kjdBonez said:
The reason I ask is because I'm in the market for a new car stereo and the differences in cost between an aftermarket head unit with android auto and an android head unit (i.e. no-name chinese brand, etc) seem quite large. I've seen the reviews on here, Youtube and other places for some of the Chinese units and they seem very feature rich. Please help me make a list of pros and cons to buying a head unit with Android Auto and an Android Head Unit. Here are just a few that I can come up with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a current thread wherein the OP feels he wasted his money on the Chinese HU (can we call them CHUs ?), and is wondering whether to get a different one or just go for a more expensive HU.
Many users seem to be happy with the CHUs, but I think many are unhappy as well. IMO many people get blocked by "gotcha's" and there are many annoying things in the software that nobody anywhere seems to be interested in fixing.
To me, Android 4.4.4 (at best) is almost an insult in late 2015 when Android 6.0 is about to be released (and has been running pretty well on my Nexus9 and other's 5's and 6's for months now.)
For those who like to tinker on the "bleeding edge" there are boards that run Android that can be hooked to touch-screens. I'm looking at this with a "96boards" project someone has started. $75 board designed by, and runs the latest Android from Qualcomm.
I think one dynamic here is that respected HU manufacturers don't want to provide full mirroring of smartphones, or an internal Android OS, lest they be sued into oblivion by distracted driving deaths and maimings.
The CHU OEMs are in China and would laugh if someone threatened to sue them.
And yeah, tablet in a car will have issues with temp/humidity and reliability, and USB connections are not "auto grade" and Wifi has issues too.
So, no perfect solution. Same as no perfect phone, tablet or person...

kjdBonez said:
Android Auto Pros:
- brand name likely with superior product support
- likely better stock stereo features (HD radio, RDS, Sirius XM, etc
- it is "safer" because it doesn't allow searching long music lists, etc while driving
- As long as the firmware can be updated to include later Android versions, when you want to update your Android phone its a lot easier than updating an entire stereo when a newer version of Android on Android HUs become available.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Yes, Pioneer or the other company I forget. I don't expect much support from Pioneer, but their products are supported by other companies, and there's a good critical mass of users to allow Google searches for issues. Firmware v1.03 seems good and may never be updated. Next years HUs will have new features (Wifi ?) which won't (or can't) be ported to this years HUs.
- Yes. HD and Sirius are pretty US specific.
- Yes. At least somewhat. Worlds better than watching videos at least.
- Note that custom ROM project for some Pioneer HUs is just started. No guarantees of course. In theory the stock HU firmware can forever stay at v1.03 and new versions of AA on the phone will breathe new life into it, as/if Google updates features. I think Google will have to support "old" 2016 HUs for a "good number" of years, or people driving 2016 cars with 2016 HU firmware will be hopping mad before their leases or loans are finished.
kjdBonez said:
Android Auto Cons:
- Not all phones are supported from what I understand
- Some popular apps are not supported (i.e. Pandora
- Requires phone to be connected via USB. I'm not sure if this is necessarily a con however, because I'm assuming if you are using your phone as a hotspot you may need to have it plugged in regardless.
- While I'm not sure about this (correct me if I'm wrong), but I assume since you're mirroring your phone apps to a non-android device there is another layer of technology that can have bugs in and of itself
- Requires additional apps on your phone eating up space and resources
- relatively expensive
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Stock Android 5.0+ devices that pass Google's Compatibility Test Suites should generally work, but there have been some "beta" type issues on some popular Samsung devices at least.
- MANY popular apps are not supported by AA. Or rather some app categories aren't supported by AA and many popular audio and messaging app developers have not added specific support for AA. Some developers have felt "burned" by making special Wearable or TV apps and finding there's little demand for those features. Also, advertising is not allowed in AA compatible apps and most Android users do not pay for apps.
- Yes, there is a layer there much bigger than mere mirroring of video and touch. It's Google's framework and APIs specifically tuned and restricted for automotive infotainment functions. HU may or may not run Android, but it's easier and faster to run it on Android: example: Keycodes match and video decoder and encoder are symmetric. Pioneer runs Android underneath and that helped them put out AA HUs faster than the other guys.
- Android Auto APK is about 30 megabytes. Apps that support AA are the same size whether you use AA or not.
- $500 something for Pioneer 4100NEX.
kjdBonez said:
Android Head Unit Pros:
- No need for specific phone support
- Any app you can download on the app store you can use in your dash. Not that I'm going to be watching netflix driving down the road, but maybe my passenger wants to look up a good mexican restaurant on Yelp while we're driving.
- You can use a wifi hotspot other than your phone to provide the wireless signal if you want
- You can root these if they are not already rooted and run custom rom
- You can run Torque
- relatively cheap for what you get
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Yes, runs standalone.
- Yes, any app runs, but landscape mode for apps is important. And there are "Car Mode" like apps such as Automate that try to provide something similar to AA.
- I guess.
- Root, sure.
- Torque, of course.
- $300 or so ? Some made for specific cars can be much more.
kjdBonez said:
Android Head Unit Cons:
- It seems like most of these are Chinese brands with little product support from the [unkknown] manufacture
- many complaints about internal mics and whatnot (although thanks to sites like this there are some workarounds for that)
- I'm guessing the quality of the stereo itself is probably not as good as when you purchase US brand name deck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Yes, no support. More tolerable if source code is available.
- Many "gotchas" I guess. Pioneer comes with external mic and it works well for me.
- Yes, I expect average lifespan of CHUs to be lower than "Western World" major brandname HUs. Who knows though, and maybe we'll want to upgrade our HUs every few years anyway, regardless of quality.
kjdBonez said:
I want to know why you all would choose a stereo with Android Auto vs an Android Head Unit. Thanks in advance for discussing this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android Head Unit would be a wonderful option IMO if an "automotive grade quality" HU was available for a decent price. Make it last at least 2-3 years, running new Android versions within 6 months of Nexus devices, be able to run common tasks quickly, and price it from $500-$1000. AFAICT no such device exists, or has even been announced at any price (Parrot is old vaporware).
So if you need real Android in the car, your options are: mounted phone or tablet or CHU, with all their pros and cons. Or maybe the Appradio Unchained Reloaded app and a Pioneer HU.
If AA and "classic stereo" functionality are all you need, Pioneer AA HUs' start around $550 USD or so.
If you "got no money" you mount your existing phone or tablet. If you want AA you can run my Headunit app, or you can get something similar with apps like Automate.

For what its worth I got the Pioneer AVH 4100NEX and I love it. I have a Subaru Outback with automatic dual HVAC controls so that was a pain in the ass because I had to purchase an aftermarket fascia from Japan (the only place I could find one) which essentially disconnects the HVAC controls which are integrated into the stock HU and makes it a separate part. Then i had to get harnesses from somewhere else which are only available from one seller again haha..
But it looks good and the Android Auto seems to be pretty awesome from what I can tell. The main things I wanted was google maps and google music. I'll probably use Pandora and/or spotify as well but with this HU I also installed SiriusXM and since it has an HDMI input I can basically use a Chromecast for all of the other applications that a Chinese Android head unit would give me.

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I vote for Android Auto due to the fact it is set up to make thing safer and to distract the driver less.
Voice activation works great.
It's still in it's infancy stage, so I assume it'll get much better as time goes on - and more apps are created to accommodate it.
It's simplistic, and does exactly what it is supposed to do.

I don't buy the 'android auto is safer' argument - does self control not exist anymore? You can configure an android head unit to just have 5 icons & hide the status bar if you want.
For me, Android auto is far too limiting. On my Android head unit I can customise everything exactly to my taste & what I want to see.
I agree in wishing that there was a 'premium grade' option of android HU & not just Chinese no name built to the lowest cost options & would gladly pay a bit more for quality DACs, regular software updates etc, but the latest models really aren't that bad.

Kenwood exelon ddx9902s and i LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!! Had a top of the line Kenwood before that and it actually increased sound quality by far. I did the replacement to get AA (and ditch the IPOD) and did not even think i would end up with better sound. Starting to think maybe that the lack of a Apple product in the car has led to the quality increase. Before all the Apple heads jump on me just remember you or anyone else has no idea what apple did to the music sent to another device besides tell you it was DIGITAL and GREAT and the BEST THERE IS
kjdBonez said:
First of all you can probably mount your Nexus tablet in landscape - as long as the screen is perpendicular to your shades than the polarized lens' wont matter.
But please expand on "all the other issues." Since you talk about putting a good preamp and amps in your car I assume that the sound quality is a big factor for you. Are the Android HUs that bad? What if you wire one line-out to an amp? Are the signals so much worse than a factory or name-brand aftermarket stereo that if you had a high quality amplifier it would still be very poor? I'm being serious here because I've never used one of these chinese HUs... I just saw some video reviews on YouTube of a couple of them and they looked pretty awesome. What AA stereo do you currently have, and how do you like it? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

BPryde said:
Before all the Apple heads jump on me just remember you or anyone else has no idea what apple did to the music sent to another device besides tell you it was DIGITAL and GREAT and the BEST THERE IS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never seen a single Apple bigot on this site, in 5 years. Maybe a few Android bigots here and there, but mostly just "fans".
The "worst" we have are reasonable people who understand that different mobile OS's have different pros and cons.

Excellent. I am used to getting jumped all over for ditching apple so was just being proactive

BPryde said:
Kenwood exelon ddx9902s and i LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!! Had a top of the line Kenwood before that and it actually increased sound quality by far. I did the replacement to get AA (and ditch the IPOD) and did not even think i would end up with better sound. Starting to think maybe that the lack of a Apple product in the car has led to the quality increase. Before all the Apple heads jump on me just remember you or anyone else has no idea what apple did to the music sent to another device besides tell you it was DIGITAL and GREAT and the BEST THERE IS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"Starting to think maybe that the lack of a Apple product in the car has led to the quality increase" so what is Apple Car Play ?
I would buy an Android Auto Head Unit as it just works I spend all day at work fixing IT problems the last thing I want to do is have them at home or in my car to deal with.
I think Apples implementation of Car Play looks great however I don't and never will buy an over priced Iphone funny thing is though the Andriod Auto Head Units are over priced so IPhone now looks great value! :laugh:

slinkydonkey said:
"Starting to think maybe that the lack of a Apple product in the car has led to the quality increase" so what is Apple Car Play ?
I would buy an Android Auto Head Unit as it just works I spend all day at work fixing IT problems the last thing I want to do is have them at home or in my car to deal with.
I think Apples implementation of Car Play looks great however I don't and never will buy an over priced Iphone funny thing is though the Andriod Auto Head Units are over priced so IPhone now looks great value! :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apple car play is about the same as android auto but different. Auto gives you an interface on your head unit screen but gets its data and stuff it needs from the phone. Car play dumps a bunch of icons on your head unit and makes your car look like an apple product. Auto is very slimmed down to the things you can do but it is for safety! You should be driving. This will piss you off at first thought but after learning the voice commands (it's really good) you will not only understand but you will be a better driver I can set reminders and Google calendar events while diving down the road. I can also send google hangouts messages (and reply) by voice as well. Having google maps in the dash is awesome as well. People will say that "sirri" does all that but I would rather have google looking up answers to my questions. Google is the data company.
---------- Post added at 11:07 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:05 AM ----------
asdrewq said:
I don't buy the 'android auto is safer' argument - does self control not exist anymore? You can configure an android head unit to just have 5 icons & hide the status bar if you want.
For me, Android auto is far too limiting. On my Android head unit I can customise everything exactly to my taste & what I want to see.
I agree in wishing that there was a 'premium grade' option of android HU & not just Chinese no name built to the lowest cost options & would gladly pay a bit more for quality DACs, regular software updates etc, but the latest models really aren't that bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably the same words spoken by the guy that ran over a 2 year old while he was reaching for an icon to press!
---------- Post added at 11:09 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:07 AM ----------
mikereidis said:
I've never seen a single Apple bigot on this site, in 5 years. Maybe a few Android bigots here and there, but mostly just "fans".
The "worst" we have are reasonable people who understand that different mobile OS's have different pros and cons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Missed this message.. Excellent that is good to hear

We all use Android because it allows us to do what we want, when we want. It's for that reason I am for the Head Units rather than Android Auto.
I'm all for safety, but I feel the driver should bear that responsibility. Everyone already has a phone in their pocket that they can infinitely distract themselves with, it's no different than an Android Head Unit. You are behind the wheel of your car, you know what's right and wrong.
I've racked up over 15,000 miles of commuter stop and go (3 hours a day) with my head unit and I've been nothing short of a safe driver. I don't drive around town downloading apps and configuring them on the fly. It's not hard to set up your unit the way you like while your car is stationary at home.

slinkydonkey said:
I think Apples implementation of Car Play looks great however I don't and never will buy an over priced Iphone funny thing is though the Andriod Auto Head Units are over priced so IPhone now looks great value! :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pioneer 4100NEX is as cheap as $500 US on EBay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-PIONEER...032177?hash=item1c5c43cf71:g:qxUAAOSwAYtWOqyj
Supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Appradio Unchained Reloaded, and works stand-alone too.

"Pioneer 4100NEX is as cheap as $500 US on EBay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-PIONEER-...UAAOSwAYtWOqyj"
I'm in UK but serious even $500 isn't cheap there is no way I would want to put a £500 car stereo in my car so someone can just break in and steal it.
I've see this Car Play one for http://www.carsoundsandsecurity.co.uk/store/sph-da120/ for £274.95
Most people on this thread seem to like Android Head Units which one is the most reliable one at the moment?

Hey, new person buying a chinese unit (help please)

I don't know where to post this so I'm posting here due to the amount of other Erisin posts.
I'm in the middle of looking for a double din head unit for my Rav4, this Erisin ES4763C head unit has come up on eBay / Erisin website when googled.
After reading a lot of reviews its putting me off spending around £250 on this head unit with camera, reverse camera, DAB+ etc.
I'm after a head unit that will do almost everything and it seems to fit the bill.
I'm wanting to know are they easily fixable, are they able to refund money if said item is broken? I'll be paying via PayPal to get some protection.
I like to research before I plunge in. Youtube videos seem to have helped a bit on what they do and they seem ok.
Would you recommend buying one or should I stay clear? - Just don't want to end up looking like Homer Simpson in my car with separate things like dash cam, satnav and bluetooth headset. (Season 14, episode 20.) (google "homer simpson car gadgets" since im not allowed to post links yet.)
After a bit more research, I've come across Xtrons PCD67HGT that does all the same stuff as Erisin but without the TV option. (But who drives with TV on?)
I honestly don't know which head unit to go for.
I'm after a head unit that can do these:
DAB+
Dash cam record + speed
Sat Nav
Reverse camera
Hands free phone
Steering wheel control
WiFi + 4G (or connect to phones 4G. Is this possible? So I don't have to buy another sim card?)
DVD + mirroring for back passengers.
What head units are there for me? Vehicle is a RAV4 2004 gen 2 D-4D.
I have around £260 to spend.
Thank you.

Im using Xtrons TA701PL and it really runs like a charm.
Some of the most important setups are there, and its got expansion slots for everything and then some.
Sound is way better than i expected, perhaps some would argue that the amp is a little to the lower side, but its still able to blast out your speakers if you want to.
Ive tried a various amount of the unbranded CH HU´s from Ebay/Amazon, but nothing compares to Xtrons, i even had one of these unbranded ones having 20 mins to open spotify!, on my Xtrons, its there allmost instant.
Support wise, they do have a forum, but its one of those forums where you cant just post anyways, but they have to allow your post to be shown, so its 110% useless, BUT they do have a online chat, where you allso can leave an email, and they do respond pretty quickly.
I had 1 issue with mine, a faulty cable, and they sendt me a new one, at no charge.
Only real wierd issue software wise i have, is some apps seems to see BT as turned off, this seems to be a trend among Android HU´s, every single one ive tried has this, it can sometimes interferer with some apps that need BT to be activated.
I bought mine directly at Xtrons

Impetuz said:
Im using Xtrons TA701PL and it really runs like a charm.
Some of the most important setups are there, and its got expansion slots for everything and then some.
Sound is way better than i expected, perhaps some would argue that the amp is a little to the lower side, but its still able to blast out your speakers if you want to.
Ive tried a various amount of the unbranded CH HU´s from Ebay/Amazon, but nothing compares to Xtrons, i even had one of these unbranded ones having 20 mins to open spotify!, on my Xtrons, its there allmost instant.
Support wise, they do have a forum, but its one of those forums where you cant just post anyways, but they have to allow your post to be shown, so its 110% useless, BUT they do have a online chat, where you allso can leave an email, and they do respond pretty quickly.
I had 1 issue with mine, a faulty cable, and they sendt me a new one, at no charge.
Only real wierd issue software wise i have, is some apps seems to see BT as turned off, this seems to be a trend among Android HU´s, every single one ive tried has this, it can sometimes interferer with some apps that need BT to be activated.
I bought mine directly at Xtrons
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im close to buying the PA77HGTP, reverse camera, DVR camera comes to around £251. I'm close to clicking the button but something's putting me off. They recently brought out 8.0 with 4gb ram. But doesn't fit my car
There's no videos etc for showing the newer Xtrons working that I can find.
Hmm just don't know what to do.

Zenlot said:
Im close to buying the PA77HGTP, reverse camera, DVR camera comes to around £251. I'm close to clicking the button but something's putting me off. They recently brought out 8.0 with 4gb ram. But doesn't fit my car
There's no videos etc for showing the newer Xtrons working that I can find.
Hmm just don't know what to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im quite happy with using the 7.1 models, all i wanted was the dual app function on the screen, so i can have spotify and traffic on at the same time

Zenlot said:
I don't know where to post this so I'm posting here due to the amount of other Erisin posts.
I'm in the middle of looking for a double din head unit for my Rav4, this Erisin ES4763C head unit has come up on eBay / Erisin website when googled.
After reading a lot of reviews its putting me off spending around £250 on this head unit with camera, reverse camera, DAB+ etc.
I'm after a head unit that will do almost everything and it seems to fit the bill.
I'm wanting to know are they easily fixable, are they able to refund money if said item is broken? I'll be paying via PayPal to get some protection.
I like to research before I plunge in. Youtube videos seem to have helped a bit on what they do and they seem ok.
Would you recommend buying one or should I stay clear? - Just don't want to end up looking like Homer Simpson in my car with separate things like dash cam, satnav and bluetooth headset. (Season 14, episode 20.) (google "homer simpson car gadgets" since im not allowed to post links yet.)
After a bit more research, I've come across Xtrons PCD67HGT that does all the same stuff as Erisin but without the TV option. (But who drives with TV on?)
I honestly don't know which head unit to go for.
I'm after a head unit that can do these:
DAB+
Dash cam record + speed
Sat Nav
Reverse camera
Hands free phone
Steering wheel control
WiFi + 4G (or connect to phones 4G. Is this possible? So I don't have to buy another sim card?)
DVD + mirroring for back passengers.
What head units are there for me? Vehicle is a RAV4 2004 gen 2 D-4D.
I have around £260 to spend.
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Main question is: how good are you at DIY electronics? If not good at all you might want to consider buying a unit from a specialized company that will also set it up in your car.
After using several chinese HUs here are my findings:
All the units I have seen have low quality glossy LCD screens. If you live in a sunny area don't expect to see anything on the screen.
There is no QC at the end of the production cycle. That is why people receive units with non functioning screens or get weird errors from units with bad internal connections.
System architecture is unnecessarily complicated AND has serious limitations. For example you cannot: use a BT dongle or use a generic camera with the DVR app.
Bluetooth phone connections are generally of poor quality.
Some 4G modems work, others don't - no drivers.
Dual-zone (i.e having satnav on the HU screen and play a movie on the back screens) isn't generally available and you should specifically ask for that.
Steering wheel controls work as long as you have a resistive- type SWC. If not, additional modules are required.
Older units (with Android 4.4 or 5.1) have too little RAM and may become extremely slow.
With that said you can still find good value for money, just make sure you talk to the seller before paying anything and confirm every single feature for your specific car model. Chinese will answer any question before sale and pretty much disappear after sale.
I cannot comment on DAB+, never used it.

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