@@npoleary Yes please. The regulations is Middle East prevent manufacturers' dash cam to detect the signals and provide AR in SATNAV. I still can buy one separately and install given its location is ready in the car underneath the central rear mirror. Can you dig some info and resolution to that? You know multiple features are associated with it like Cruise Control capturing the road speed accordingly to speed mark.
Yes laws and regulation differ all the way round the world! Rather annoying! Really sorry I wouldn’t know what they are in other countries! It was extremely difficult to find out on board recording dashcam in the UK alone
Sorry should have made it clearer in the video As I mentioned in the video for me pass through charging is important as I review cars often and often use my phone to capture clips. To record and grab footage on the screen and plug it in when doing that but every other time, day to day use would be wireless.
If my car only had one USB port the charging pass through would be helpful. Most of my drives are short trips across town so a wireless Apple CarPlay is beneficial but for the occasional drive that’s a couple of hours it would be better to only have to plug in the cord connected to the pass through instead of swapping the adapter with the cord.
on the argument of charging the phone, i think a nice magsafe mount would go nice with this, so you can have your phone nicely mounted and charging, but still dont have to fight with plugging it in everytime you jump in your car
I have a magsafe mount from Moment and have wired carplay. I enjoy that combo and since I generally use maps a lot on my daily commute to alert me to changes in traffic conditions, I don't mind not having wireless carplay yet.......buuuut, we rented a car once that had wireless carplay and it was very nice not being forced to plug my phone in each time just to be able to use it. For short trips, wireless would be my go to, for my work commutes that are almost an hour and a half each way, I'm staying plugged in anyway.
Well, I drive an Opel too and found the CarPlay is unreliable to start up even wired. I sometimes need to unplug and replug once or twice to make Carplay show up, and it can be quite slow.
I’d used otticast/ cplay2air also, then i switch to the old school wired carplay, coz wireless carplay with/without wireless charge make the phone terribly hot.
If a Mercedes (MB) model has wireless Apple Carplay, does it disconnect when a passenger charges his phone with the USB-C wire? On that note, if the (MB) car has wireless Apple Carplay, can a phone connect to the car via a USB-C wire at all? Thank you in advance. Great videos.
No it shouldn’t do. The second “plug-in would just charge”. Same as if you plugged in your phone. Yes you can, if you’ve connected Wireless Apple CarPlay, then it will only connect via wireless. To connect wired only, unpair the phone via Bluetooth and delete the pairing in the car and then connect via cable.
Thanks for this interesting review. I will stick with the wired connection for my iPhone. I find it rather useful to charge my phone whilst driving. Having a wireless connection with charging capabilities seems a bit redundant no?
@@IslandDigitalif these adapters are using proper apple protocols, there is 0 difference in audio quality between wired and wireless (unless you’re using an external DAP inline with the iPhone). Both wired and wireless CarPlay support a maximum audio resolution of 16bit/48hz lossless uncompressed audio.
I don’t think it’s redundant. I have a charging pad built into my vehicle so don’t have to plug it in to charge. But have been thinking about getting a wireless CarPlay so I can just leave phone in purse. But for long trips can always just put phone on charging pad.
I have Carlink 4.0 in my GLE, and it works perfect at 98-99%. Sometimes it disconnect, but you only have to plug and unplug again. I’m very happy with it. But my iPhone heats a lot when I use it. I don’t know if it happens with the rest of the devices.
Amazon has a really good deal right now on the Ottocast U2 X which is their redesigned 2023 model. It's reduced in price with an included $20 coupon. I paid $56 American. I'm gonna give it a shot and see how it runs for a couple of weeks. Amazon has a terrific return policy. Pretty much you can return anything. So I will return with my results.
I have the one you called fein something or other but it came in a different name. Installed a week ago and used all apps on car play extensively including Google maps. Absolutely brilliant. It sits in my glove box double sided taped to the inner wall so not in the way. Even with the box closed zero issues and only 60 quid
If I want to learn anything about my 2018 C Class, I come to your videos rather than anything else. Clear, concise and informative. Unfortunately I have been told by my dealership that I simply cant have car play running on my model!
Ah thank you! So if I remember but your local Mercedes will be able to clarify, I’m sure that there was an option at factory for a thing called COMAND. You had to select that to get Apple CarPlay if I recall
@@npoleary Thanks for your reply Nick. Unfortunately my dealership have told me it's simply not possible to have CarPlay on my car. That won't stop me watching the videos though. Keep them coming please
I bought one and returned it for the very point you raise about your battery depleting when your connected wirelessly and using multiple apps. What’s the point if you have to have to keep charging your phone.
Nick, what if I just want to cast/view videos? I have a 2025 G550. As you know it has wireless CarPlay, wireless charging, NTG7…I just want the ability for videos in motion? (I have a iPhone 15)
You’ll need a device which has it’s own Android operating system 🤓 There are several companies that do video playback but for casting…what app would you use?
@ I am fine without casting, just some native apps that actually work…. I trust your opinion over the marketing companies that are selling these devices..
Awh thank you! They’re good, I’ve only used Ottocast. They have sent devices to me for a possible review. Not reviewed them all, just picked one’s that I thought added value and functionality.
I bought the Ottocast and it worked fine for a while but now it only connects first time occasionally. I have to reset it. Also, when it does connect sometimes I see the music playing but there is no sound! Again, I have to reset. Great idea, just wish it was more reliable. Maybe I should have bought another make. I certainly wouldn’t rely on it for navigation.
Ottocast is the name of the company. I reviewed several in the video and two of them were Ottocast products. One was a U2-X Pro and the other was a U2-AIR I would imagine whichever one you bought would have a warranty or maybe they have a firmware update. Message them and I’m sure they can help!
As i understand that you must buy smatphone integration package before you can use apple car play or android auto and it cost about 500 dollar in sweden . Mercedes 300 de 2021
For previous generation Mercedes cars it depends if smartphone integration was selected or not when it was built. Luckily it can be added though! Years ago, if a car didn’t have it, that was it. It would never have CarPlay unless it had some serious modification with internal components that etc
Hi Nick, Thanks for your excellent assessment. I watched your video this afternoon and ordered the U2 X Pro. I've watched a few clips about these gadgets, your honest approach meant I could go ahead and just do it. Thanks. BTW I (we) have recently bought a new GLA AMG 35. I traded in my C250 2015, and my wife her A250 2014. We are retired and decided that we don't need two cars. I wanted to keep mine and my wife wanted to keep hers. We paid a visit to our usual Merc dealer and saw the GLA in the showroom. We both liked what we saw and bought it. We are very happy with the car it suits us in different ways. Thank you for the thoroughness of your presentations.
Sorry it’s been a little while since I covered these but I don’t think it did. I’m sure it just converted it to wireless but…I did cover a device that does do that made by the same manufacturer: th-cam.com/video/BAMKMsxAzto/w-d-xo.htmlsi=DJRcBNQswkFxFkMg
Possibly it depends on the model of Mercedes It’s whatever port that you’d normally plug into for Apple CarPlay. As I mentioned in the video, this does not give your car CarPlay, you need it to begin with, this just makes it wireless. Usually in Mercedes there’s a small symbol, normally next to the cup holders at the front. If there isn’t one there, it’ll be in the armrest. Hope that helps guys! Any more questions, message me ⬇️
I’m actually curious, out of everything tested here, which one are you using in your personal vehicles? Also, you didn’t show how the phone connects to the adapter. Also also, you didn’t time how long a wired connection takes to launch CarPlay.
i have in my MB SLC the Carlin Kit adapter, but now an important thing. As mentioned power from the battery of the iPhone is a limited thing for longer rides for sample to a holiday destination or on business trips. Need now a cable again is a contraproductiv request to the cablefree dongles. Then I can direkt plug my phone to the car USB. Solution I made. There are magnetic wireless charger by QI available in very compakt size like the Apple charger which you can fit on your dasboard. Power will you get by chargers which you connect to your 12 V cigarette lighter. with such a combination i have the option to let my phone in the pocket on a short trip or tab my phone on the magnetic charger and by my experience this works for a day trip without any problems.
QUALITY AUDIO MUSIC Question, have you noticed a better quality with any of these adapters? I noticed that CarPlay with cable is much better audio quality when playing Spotify. Thanks
I’ve found the audio quality is always better over a cable where as wireless on any car / adapter fitted afterward it’s slightly less. Only slightly though and most may not notice.
My cplay2air worked well then started to drop off after 15min. Updated the firmware etc to no avail. Maybe it’s the CarPlay? Not spending my money to service the CarPlay. Back to wired.
They’ve been rolling it out over the years. It takes quite a long time for a manufacturer to update 30 models! 🙃 There are quite a few that have it now and more coming out this year.
No not at all, call quality is the lowest of bit rates anyway. Wish it was higher so I could actually hear what people are saying! 😅 Even music played back still sounds good! 👍🏼 Of course if you have high sound systems then you may wish to use a cable for the most optimum sound quality.
I’m actually curious, out of everything tested here, which one are you using in your personal vehicles? Also, you didn’t show how the phone connects to the adapter.
I’ve actually upgraded my car since then so it now has native wireless CarPlay. Although I still choose to use the wire as I use my phone a lot so need the extra battery. Ah it’s just as simple as connecting Bluetooth, it guides you on the screen what to do ☺️
Sadly only started my channel back in 2020 so have limited coverage on models prior to that in Mercedes. But one question, does the car have it? Are you 100% sure?
Ottocast should shop internationally, they have options for the USA on their website too: bit.ly/OttocastNickOLeary (link with discount code from description of my video)
To use wireless then use pass through charging on the adapter kind of defeats the point of the wireless as correct me if im wrong but using wired carplay, the phone charges aswell? By all means buy the wireless adapter but if you then have an issue charging your phone, if the wired carplay also charges your phone i dont see the point in switching to wireless.
Answered this in other comments below 🤓 Sorry I should have explained more in the video, I use my phone for TH-cam a lot so having a fully charged phone is quite important for me. So shorter journeys I’ll use wireless and longer journeys I’ll use the cable 🤓
I moved over to Apple recently due to AirTag capability. I might be able to find an empty USB port in my 2019 F150 crew cab pickup. Let’s see: 2 on center console for rear pax, 2x in center console storage, 2x dash, 2x in semi hidden console in front of center console, 4x added on at rear of truck bed, and 2x 12v adapters. Topped off with 2x 110 AC outlets (stock). The 2x in the semi hidden actually connect to truck operating system including direct to media system! Most are used for powering GoPro and dash cams cameras and equipment as/when needed. Here’s a helpful hint for many passenger style vehicles equipped with center roof mount rear view mirrors that auto dim at night (result from vehicles approaching from behind). There is an adapter available (Amazon) that gives USB A support. Great for mounting that extra dash cam! Powered only when vehicle is on! No native dash cam in my truck! Yes, I do use many when driving to keep various items charged for use!
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before. The reason is because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing and coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything. So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen. NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Some cars can but you’ll have to check! I think from what I’ve seen and experienced, Mercedes models that have MBUX gen 2 can go into any USB-C port. But MBUX Gen 1 is only the USB-C port at the cup holders.
During the 18th century, Sweden (in this case, Gustavus Adolphus) wanted to develop its early industry, and cannon making in particular. The king as well as his powerful chancellor Axel Oxenstierna were friends with and invited the wealthy Dutch / Walloon Louis de Geer to help with that, so he came to Sweden in 1627, developing the Finspång cannon making in the province of Östergötland. Louis de Geer brought with him a sizable force of Walloon metal workers, who settled in the area. They brought an old Walloon / Dutch song with them, which got a Swedish text, beginning with the words “Ack Östra Götaland och Finspånga län, fagrast bland Svea rikes länder” (which translated is something like “Oh Östergötland and Finspång county, fairest among the lands in Sweden”). In 1822 the Swedish author Fryxell picked up this melody for a musical play he was writing, and changed the text, thus renaming the song “the Värmland tune” - about Värmland, another Swedish province, being fairest of them all. This is the version we listen to in this TH-cam clip! The story does not en there, however. In 1856, the famous Czech composer Bedrock Smetana came to Gothenburg in Sweden, where he stayed for six years as a conductor for a “porto-version” of the Göteborg Symphony Orchestra. While in sweden, he picked up this tune, and came to incorporate it in his great work Ma Vlast (My Fatherland), where the part called Vltava (die Moldau) begins with the first bars of the Dutch / Valloon / Swedish song, which thus also got a Czech heritage! Today, everybody in Sweden regards this beautiful tune “Värmlandsvisan” as quintessentially Swedish. For the Czechs, Vltava is part of their national heritage. Is the melody still well-known in the Netherlands and the Walloon parts of Belgium? I don’t really know. Is the melody even originally from there? I don’t know either.
Thanks for this great video. I have a question. Once we connect to Carplay or Android Auto, the MBUX screen does not show the full screen. Is it a limitation of using carplay or Android Auto? How can we get a full screen when we connect carplay? Please share your suggestions.
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before. The reason is because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing and coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything. So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen. NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Sadly no it’s the car that controls the resolution not the adapters. Some cars might have a cropped experience because of the different screen sizes available on that model.
Hi Nick I’m about to purchase a CLA premium plus, I too have an Astra K Elite nav as my current car, plugging my iPhone into the K centre console has always been no issue for me and I like that it charges and just hides out the way. But was surprised that the only connection to the MBUX system was in that sliding door area which is also where the wireless charger is. Do you think I’d be able to somewhat extend or move that box unit within that space so that it doesn’t hinder my use of the wireless charger? Maybe some sticky pads to hold it further into the drawer at the back or maybe even use an extension cable to wire it out of it completely and maybe hide it in the glove box or something obviously with all wires being hidden behind panels etc, I don’t want to ruin the beautiful interior with ugly cables and I don’t want to mount my phone on the dash. For my small journeys it’s fine to just keep my phone in my pocket but on my big commutes I’d like the hassle free life of just slapping it on the wireless charger and not worrying about it. I’m a big lover of ACP and I absolute hate people who use phones at all whilst driving so this is a perfect use for me. Love your videos, your videos have been a huge help in me deciding to get a CLA class so thank you, and keep up the good work.
Ah awesome thank you! Glad you’re enjoying the videos! Ah that’s a good idea but yes that port that’s labelled is the one for CarPlay so yeah putting it into the glovebox would be quite a neat solution although you’d still see the cable slightly with the wire going in.
@@npoleary no no, thank you. Very informative vids. And I think I’d somewhat disassemble the centre console and hide the wire within the trim itself. A little bit of cable tidying would make this setup very sleek and modern. I’m used to hiding wires and fitting dashcams etc for every friend, family and their dog so I’m hoping this would work for me. Would definitely need one of the units with removable connection though. Again thank you, and even more so for your reply.
There is always a slight delay when using Apple CarPlay Wirelessly. You’ll definitely notice it watching video (on the phone with the sound coming through the car, makes it unwatchable). However…day to day use, navigation and music etc it’s fine. No different to an OEM fitted wireless CarPlay solution from a car that already has wireless capabilities. So in short, yes there is but there’s always a lag wirelessly (if you notice it)
Well if you’re using CarPlay Wirelessly yes it will drain the phone battery but for shorter journeys it’s pretty good. That depends on your car, most cars will cut the power to USB ports, for Mercedes looks like the power is turned off when the door is opened.
Yes 👍🏼 But I messaged them and they shipped a new one out to me over the next couple of days! Sadly I’d already started filming so couldn’t include that one. So after sales support, pretty good!
Hi Nick, thanks as always! Quick question - most mercs as you know don’t have touch screen (though I do wonder why) and it makes navigating CarPlay a bit tricky. Do you know any workaround for this? Either to introudce touchscreen or to device an easier way to navigate CarPlay screen using buttons. It’s not so much an issue if all you need is the basic CarPlay apps, but as soon as you connect any play-to-video CarPlay device, you will easily see the need for a touch screen. Tips and ideas would be appreciated.
It just depends on the car’s multimedia system. Most new Mercedes now will have touchscreen, this is what I’ve seen but for any older models, I guess just mastering the wheel would do it. I have used one with the wheel before and you do get used to where the selector cursor goes etc. But yeah if a car doesn’t have touchscreen, there wouldn’t be a way to make a touchscreen. There is also the option of using Siri too!
Hi Nick....question. How does one go about having both wireless Apple CarPlay AND wireless charging in the vehicle? What product or products are needed? I can't help but think (correct me if I am wrong) that nobody has a single product that provides both wireless Apple CarPlay capabilities and wireless charging and that such a device would probably need 2 wires, one to charge the phone (higher wattage) and one to provide the bluetooth signal to a vehicle's USB port that normally provides a wired Apple CarPlay connection to provide for wireless Apple CarPlay. Thoughts? Thanks.
Well some cars have Wireless CarPlay and a wireless charger but I’ve not come across a 3rd party product that does both. You could always get a wireless charger and plug it into a 12v socket but I’d much rather just plug a phone in. They won’t get as hot and charge faster too
Wireless CarPlay was introduced in the facelift which came out late 2023. Anything before that is wired Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto but using 3rd party add-ons you can make it wireless.
Hi Nick I bought the Feinodi for 2019 GLC220d 4 Matic , the dongle is paired but nothing comes up on screen Please advise where I am going wrong or if it’s compatible with MBuX On the MB App Store is asking me to do one off payment
Hi Nick thanks for your reply. I now have another question. Normally I listen to music from a memory stick via dongle, great it goes from tune to tune . Now I have apple car play with ottocast u2 device the music still plays but the same song over and over again. Any quick solutions please would be appreciated. Thanks Nick
That’ll be because you’ve got repeat enabled on your phone What app are you using? Apple Music, Spotify, TH-cam music etc Just change it on your phone or on the now playing screen 👍🏼
I have a 21 AMG and always thought it sucked mot having wireless car play. But I don’t text and drive and realized there is no benefit to me. I have 5 USB C ports and wireless charging so charging multiple devices isn’t an issue. I was driving a rental with wireless CarPlay and my phone was so hot and even plugging it in to charge, it was burning up and not charging. I just plug it up and keep it pushing. Only pain in the ass is Mercedes put the CarPlay port up front by the cupholders and not in the center console. So it is an ugly site.
I have a 2023 e350 and for some reason my Apple car play is small on my screen. If I purchase one of these parts will I be able to get the full screen car play? Please help
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before. For Mercedes it’s a common question which I’ve answered on my FAQ series here: th-cam.com/video/N9x56XWdjIo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mlzuNGtciSlsdcdb&t=537 Basically it’s because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing & coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything. So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen. NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars! Sadly the adapter won’t make a difference as it’s the car’s screen
Hi do these work with a bmw please on I drive 7 I have a iPhone and really won’t to mirror image but can’t I would also love to get Netflix and TH-cam but don’t no how
They possibly would do if it has wired Apple CarPlay. Check with the adapter manufacturer first though or see if they have a return policy 🤓 I’ll try and cover that in the future!
I bought my Apple CarPlay adapter last month and was searching for this kind of video but could not find it. This will be useful to others in the future who want to change thier wired to wireless CarPlay
I have added an aftermarket head unit to my car, and I am currently connecting my I phone to the head unit via a USB cable, would I be able to use one this adapters to go wireless?
Possibly! They are designed to convert wired to wireless for all CarPlay makes and models. Either check with the adapter manufacturer, or make sure they have a refund policy in place 🤓
Hello (I'm from Canada) I watch your videos a lot, it's very interesting and very well explained........ I had a question for you with the Mercedes Me app, when I start the car remotely, is this normal? that the vehicle turns off when I unlock the door, the car stops turning and I have to restart the car with the button I have a new 2023 C 300.
Hey! Thank you! Glad you enjoy the videos! Sadly I wouldn’t know, that feature does not exist here in the UK. I think it is though, I seem to recall someone asking a long time ago on one of my videos and someone replied yes it was normal.
I’m a bit confused here. Whats the point of having a wireless CarPlay adapter if you’re just going to plug it in to pass through charge? Effectively meaning you still have to plug it in? Genuinely asking because I may want to try this with my car which currently offers wired CarPlay only.
I should have explained more in the video sorry. I said in the video “it’s important to me” but didn’t say why. Jumping in and out of the car for short journeys, wireless is great. Longer journeys I’d rather arrive with a full battery especially with running my TH-cam channel. I respond to all of the comments (where I can) on my phone 😅 Plus I need it plugged in when filming the screen and capturing CarPlay for videos. Normal use though, wireless is great 👍🏼
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before. For Mercedes it’s a common question which I’ve answered on my FAQ series here: th-cam.com/video/N9x56XWdjIo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mlzuNGtciSlsdcdb&t=537 Basically it’s because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing & coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything. So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen. NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
@@npoleary That makes sense, thank you so much for your expert comments. It's so unfortunate that Merc is not providing full screen Car play which is pretty standard these days in other brands.
No worries! Well Mercedes do, it just not all models. Some models have two screen sizes but the ones that have just one screen size get full screen CarPlay.
Apple CarPlay always runs over Wi-Fi that’s how it works. Sadly there is no such thing as CarPlay over Bluetooth, Bluetooth can’t transmit images in that way and isn’t as reliable as Wi-Fi.
Nick, I'm missing something - why is charging pass though a concern on a device meant to support wireless connectivity..? Why not just use that USB port and get connected and power? Thanks for your videos, I've watched a few.
Hey I have replied to a few comments below on the same question so sorry I should have mentioned in the video to clarify what I meant. Wireless is super convenient but running a TH-cam Channel full time, I might need to travel somewhere hours away so I’ll usually do this for pass through charging: Short Trips: Wireless, super convenient, phone can stay in pocket. Long Trips: Wired, so have a charged battery when I get there Hope that helps clarify!
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before. For Mercedes it’s a common question which I’ve answered on my FAQ series here: th-cam.com/video/N9x56XWdjIo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mlzuNGtciSlsdcdb&t=537 Basically it’s because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing & coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything. So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen. NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Does it automatically connect to CarPlay when I start the vehicle if I already have the adapter plugged in to my car? Or do I need to power it on myself first?
Automatically starts as long as the car would automatically start normally. So before buying, if you test it by leaving your phone plugged in to your car. Lock it and wait 5 mins, then unlock, get in and drive off. If it automatically connects (most do) then having an adapter would offer the same process.
I've been using an older version of the C2Play for years but got tired of the slow boot up time. I've been comparing the Teeran and Schmidt Spiele as replacements (both on Amazon). The former will boot up as fast as 12 seconds from a cold boot. When already plugged in, it can boot up to full functionality in less than 5 seconds. The Spiele is usually 18 or so seconds. Did you compare map performance? I've noticed the C2Play uses the cars GPS while the other two use the phone's GPS. It's not an issue if you have the phone on the dash, but I usually keep my phone in my back pocket and GPS performance can be pretty bad.
Oh really? That’s cool they sound fast! CarPlay will always use the phone’s GPS as it is your phone. Your phone calculates all of the functionality and merely displays it on the screen so won’t ever use the in-built gps, that’s for the car’s Sat Nav.
@@npoleary There's definitely something different between the 2. If the phone is in my back pocket, CarPlay will pick up my location instantly. The other two adapters usually require I take the phone out of my pocket before it picks up GPS. I did a quick video this AM to show the speed of the Teeran. th-cam.com/users/shorts6bmcS1HUhIA?feature=share
Yes all Wireless CarPlay is delayed That’s not these adapters, even in OEM manufacturer fitted CarPlay over wireless is delayed. Wired won’t have that delay 👍🏼
I think it depends on the multimedia system and who makes it. But certainly every car I’ve tested, there is a noticeable delay. I guess it could vary between a second or two. So if I’m watching video on my phone (while parked) but the audio goes through the car wirelessly, it’s unwatchable due to the audio sync delay. Wired is fine though! These adapters were all the same in terms of delay, so I didn’t mention in the video. How that helps! Any other questions, message me back! 🤓
My GLB (2024 model) did not come with CarPlay installed. If I invest in one of these devices, will I be able to have CarPlay or do I need to activate/purchase it first (through Mercedes Me)?
ATTENTION!!! Guys do not use their original mount that blocks your view driving. I bought 2 heavy duty magnet phone holder that attaches to your AC vent in that way and stick my wireless carplay to it. And won’t block your view and to avoid accident.
New to your channel but find them hugely informative as i just picked up a 73 plate GLB Night Edition today and so far can’t see any wireless Apple CarPlay functionality. Smartphone integration is all activated through the Mercedes Me App and every other service also as the car is brand new. Am I missing something or is the GLB Premium Plus not enabled for it?
Messaged you on the other video 👍🏼 Thank you glad you enjoyed the videos! Wireless is only available on certain models (typically models without a touchpad in the middle). It depends on the specification of your car for CarPlay if it has it or not but if you chat with Mercedes, they can let you know for sure. Usually it’s a USB-C port next to the cup holders.
Sadly not tried phone holders but keep an eye out over the next couple of months. I have a plan for people who don’t have CarPlay natively on their car. Make sure you’re subscribed (it’s free) with notifications on so you don’t miss it 👍🏼
Wireless CarPlay came out in 2023 so if it’s 2018 it’ll be wired via the USB-C ports. Just bear in mind before buying, it stays with the car (so if you sell the car it’ll go to the next owner) and the screen will be slightly cropped due to the two screen sizes available. Although this is a year old, the video here show’s you what it’ll look like: th-cam.com/video/ptgKnZJnaRc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=ucOS8HCzNZyzEI6y
Why is pass through charging even a consideration? If you are connecting it to power then you are not wireless and you may as well use the factory wired CarPlay solution.
Sorry should have made it clearer on the video Pass through charging is important to me, I’ll be using wireless CarPlay going forward but when producing the videos I sometimes use my phone to capture CarPlay footage on the screen. I’ll need it plugged in then or the battery will be flat at the end of filming. Having the option of both is just good for me personally
Hi Nick - have you tested if maps would display on heads-up display. I have C2play and I have noticed maps do not show up on heads up display. I have 2022 GLS 450. Additionally I have noticed while connected to CarPlay through these adapters they do not apply any music equalizer changes in effect and sound quality isn’t great then. Please let me know if you are able to see maps on your onscreen display while using these adapters. Thanks
No sadly Apple CarPlay will only operate on the centre screen. Apple did announce last year they were working with manufacturers to enable Apple CarPlay in the instrument cluster but this is extremely early stages. It won’t have support in new cars for a while yet if manufacturers choose to use it. There is one manufacturer who has done it already, I might cover them soon 👀
I have a 2019 mercedes b class. I can't access carplay because I have to buy this option from mercedes to be enable.. if I use this ottocast u2-air will carplay work?
I wish it was full screen too but there are other manufacturers who have come across the same issue before. The reason is because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing and coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything. So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen. NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Nick, having wireless Car Play has got me thinking about what happens to users of Mercedes Me when 3G is turned off, perhaps later this year. Will owners of pre 2020 cars lose all the Mercedes Me benefits, or will Mercedes offer a workaround ?
Yeah I’ve heard of this happening too with the 3G network being switched off. I can imagine it would affect a lot of devices and cars too! Not sure why the UK have decided to turn 3G off so soon, I’m pretty sure most pay terminals (card readers in shops) use 3G. For CarPlay that wouldn’t affect anything in the car, CarPlay runs off of your phone 🤓 so as long as your phone can run on 4G or 5G, you’ll be good 👍🏼
Mercedes released a new facelift CLA last year, I covered it in October: th-cam.com/video/Wie56TRlBJM/w-d-xo.html So depends if it’s the new one or not. If it has a touchpad in the middle, it’s the previous one. If it doesn’t have a touchpad then it’s the new facelift with wireless CarPlay.
Honestly I hadn’t heard of the name so had to look it up but it should work with any car that already has Apple CarPlay. So if you plug it in, then it should do exactly as shown in the video. Best thing to do is check the description of the one you’re looking at, or even the support of the adapter manufacturer. Even worst case, I’m sure if you had ordered and it didn’t work, you could probably send back but check with them for refund rules etc Hope that helps! 🤓
![Best Wireless Apple Carplay Adapters 2025 [Watch Before You Buy One]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/2or308hMd7Y/mqdefault.jpg)
![Best Wireless Apple Carplay Adapters 2025 [Watch Before You Buy One]](/img/tr.png)
Nick, I’m MB owner and I value your videos and efforts. You became my go-to-expert in discovering my car. Keep it up.
Wow, thank you so much!
I'll keep the videos coming!
Any future topics you'd like to see? 😎
@@npoleary Yes please. The regulations is Middle East prevent manufacturers' dash cam to detect the signals and provide AR in SATNAV. I still can buy one separately and install given its location is ready in the car underneath the central rear mirror. Can you dig some info and resolution to that? You know multiple features are associated with it like Cruise Control capturing the road speed accordingly to speed mark.
Yes laws and regulation differ all the way round the world! Rather annoying!
Really sorry I wouldn’t know what they are in other countries! It was extremely difficult to find out on board recording dashcam in the UK alone
Family just got a brand new Genesis and for some heckin reason it doesn’t have wireless CarPlay so this video is a lifesaver. Thanks.
Because it's a HYUNDAI. Good luck with your Hyundai. Been there done that!
I bought a Carlinkit brand device in 2021 for my C205 with NGT5.5 for € 60 or so including shipping costs and it is still working perfectly
The pass-through charging has got to be the most hilarious thing! I could have just used wired CarPlay which has always kept my phone fully charged!
Sorry should have made it clearer in the video
As I mentioned in the video for me pass through charging is important as I review cars often and often use my phone to capture clips.
To record and grab footage on the screen and plug it in when doing that but every other time, day to day use would be wireless.
And damaged your battery
If my car only had one USB port the charging pass through would be helpful. Most of my drives are short trips across town so a wireless Apple CarPlay is beneficial but for the occasional drive that’s a couple of hours it would be better to only have to plug in the cord connected to the pass through instead of swapping the adapter with the cord.
@@npolearythen why can’t you just unplug the CarPlay and go wired for those moments? I get it’s simpler but you could save money
@OmariFaith I could but I’ve had hundreds of people wanting me to try some adapters out so decided to make a video on them for everyone 🤓
on the argument of charging the phone, i think a nice magsafe mount would go nice with this, so you can have your phone nicely mounted and charging, but still dont have to fight with plugging it in everytime you jump in your car
I have a magsafe mount from Moment and have wired carplay. I enjoy that combo and since I generally use maps a lot on my daily commute to alert me to changes in traffic conditions, I don't mind not having wireless carplay yet.......buuuut, we rented a car once that had wireless carplay and it was very nice not being forced to plug my phone in each time just to be able to use it. For short trips, wireless would be my go to, for my work commutes that are almost an hour and a half each way, I'm staying plugged in anyway.
Well, I drive an Opel too and found the CarPlay is unreliable to start up even wired. I sometimes need to unplug and replug once or twice to make Carplay show up, and it can be quite slow.
Mercedes should send the widerscreen update... im only using the port when watchinv movies in my car because it gives widescreen
What port do you use to get widescreen?
I’d used otticast/ cplay2air also, then i switch to the old school wired carplay, coz wireless carplay with/without wireless charge make the phone terribly hot.
If a Mercedes (MB) model has wireless Apple Carplay, does it disconnect when a passenger charges his phone with the USB-C wire? On that note, if the (MB) car has wireless Apple Carplay, can a phone connect to the car via a USB-C wire at all? Thank you in advance. Great videos.
No it shouldn’t do. The second “plug-in would just charge”. Same as if you plugged in your phone.
Yes you can, if you’ve connected Wireless Apple CarPlay, then it will only connect via wireless. To connect wired only, unpair the phone via Bluetooth and delete the pairing in the car and then connect via cable.
Thanks for this interesting review. I will stick with the wired connection for my iPhone. I find it rather useful to charge my phone whilst driving. Having a wireless connection with charging capabilities seems a bit redundant no?
It also has much better sound !
@@IslandDigitalif these adapters are using proper apple protocols, there is 0 difference in audio quality between wired and wireless (unless you’re using an external DAP inline with the iPhone). Both wired and wireless CarPlay support a maximum audio resolution of 16bit/48hz lossless uncompressed audio.
I don’t think it’s redundant. I have a charging pad built into my vehicle so don’t have to plug it in to charge. But have been thinking about getting a wireless CarPlay so I can just leave phone in purse. But for long trips can always just put phone on charging pad.
I have Carlink 4.0 in my GLE, and it works perfect at 98-99%. Sometimes it disconnect, but you only have to plug and unplug again. I’m very happy with it. But my iPhone heats a lot when I use it. I don’t know if it happens with the rest of the devices.
Amazon has a really good deal right now on the Ottocast U2 X which is their redesigned 2023 model. It's reduced in price with an included $20 coupon. I paid $56 American. I'm gonna give it a shot and see how it runs for a couple of weeks. Amazon has a terrific return policy. Pretty much you can return anything. So I will return with my results.
I have the one you called fein something or other but it came in a different name. Installed a week ago and used all apps on car play extensively including Google maps. Absolutely brilliant. It sits in my glove box double sided taped to the inner wall so not in the way. Even with the box closed zero issues and only 60 quid
Yeah I was surprised at that one! It worked absolutely fine!
any updates on how it's working?
If I want to learn anything about my 2018 C Class, I come to your videos rather than anything else. Clear, concise and informative. Unfortunately I have been told by my dealership that I simply cant have car play running on my model!
Ah thank you!
So if I remember but your local Mercedes will be able to clarify, I’m sure that there was an option at factory for a thing called COMAND. You had to select that to get Apple CarPlay if I recall
@@npoleary Thanks for your reply Nick. Unfortunately my dealership have told me it's simply not possible to have CarPlay on my car. That won't stop me watching the videos though. Keep them coming please
Thanks! no sadly you won’t be able to add it to the car after it was made unless a 3rd party retrofit was added.
But I’ll defo keep the videos coming!
Can u do the same for Android auto ?
I’ll add it to the list of potential future videos! 👍🏼
Thanks for the suggestion!
I bought one and returned it for the very point you raise about your battery depleting when your connected wirelessly and using multiple apps. What’s the point if you have to have to keep charging your phone.
Useful for quick trips (most of what I do)
Longer journeys I’ll defo plug in
Hi Nick, I have 2 MBZ's. I also value your videos! You are clear and concise. Bravo
Ah awesome! Thank you glad you enjoy them!
Just purchased a U2-X Pro Android Auto for my 2019 C63s. Keep up the good work, thanks!
is it any good? any problems with it? i also have a c63s😁
Nick, what if I just want to cast/view videos?
I have a 2025 G550. As you know it has wireless CarPlay, wireless charging, NTG7…I just want the ability for videos in motion?
(I have a iPhone 15)
You’ll need a device which has it’s own Android operating system 🤓
There are several companies that do video playback but for casting…what app would you use?
@ I am fine without casting, just some native apps that actually work….
I trust your opinion over the marketing companies that are selling these devices..
Awh thank you!
They’re good, I’ve only used Ottocast. They have sent devices to me for a possible review. Not reviewed them all, just picked one’s that I thought added value and functionality.
@@npolearyThanks!
I bought the Ottocast and it worked fine for a while but now it only connects first time occasionally. I have to reset it. Also, when it does connect sometimes I see the music playing but there is no sound!
Again, I have to reset. Great idea, just wish it was more reliable. Maybe I should have bought another make.
I certainly wouldn’t rely on it for navigation.
Oh strange, I’ve never had mine cut out
Which one did you buy? And have you got in contact with them?
@@npoleary I bought the model reviewed, the Ottocast. This was several months ago and I thought it was too late to complain to them.
Ottocast is the name of the company. I reviewed several in the video and two of them were Ottocast products.
One was a U2-X Pro and the other was a U2-AIR
I would imagine whichever one you bought would have a warranty or maybe they have a firmware update. Message them and I’m sure they can help!
Thanks, will try a contact or update.
As i understand that you must buy smatphone integration package before you can use apple car play or android auto and it cost about 500 dollar in sweden . Mercedes 300 de 2021
For previous generation Mercedes cars it depends if smartphone integration was selected or not when it was built. Luckily it can be added though!
Years ago, if a car didn’t have it, that was it. It would never have CarPlay unless it had some serious modification with internal components that etc
Hi Nick,
Thanks for your excellent assessment. I watched your video this afternoon and ordered the U2 X Pro. I've watched a few clips about these gadgets, your honest approach meant I could go ahead and just do it. Thanks.
BTW I (we) have recently bought a new GLA AMG 35. I traded in my C250 2015, and my wife her A250 2014. We are retired and decided that we don't need two cars. I wanted to keep mine and my wife wanted to keep hers. We paid a visit to our usual Merc dealer and saw the GLA in the showroom. We both liked what we saw and bought it.
We are very happy with the car it suits us in different ways. Thank you for the thoroughness of your presentations.
Ah awesome! Thank you, thanks for sharing!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Does this have TH-cam / Netflix ?
Sorry it’s been a little while since I covered these but I don’t think it did. I’m sure it just converted it to wireless but…I did cover a device that does do that made by the same manufacturer:
th-cam.com/video/BAMKMsxAzto/w-d-xo.htmlsi=DJRcBNQswkFxFkMg
Goes to show cheap doesn't always mean worse! Good video.
Thank you! Yeah it surprised me!
Could I plug one of these in the armrest outlet and still work? > GLB 2022 😊
See my comment above
Anyone has an answer for this please?
@@rogerallen665did you connect it to the usb ports in the armrest box?
Possibly it depends on the model of Mercedes
It’s whatever port that you’d normally plug into for Apple CarPlay.
As I mentioned in the video, this does not give your car CarPlay, you need it to begin with, this just makes it wireless.
Usually in Mercedes there’s a small symbol, normally next to the cup holders at the front. If there isn’t one there, it’ll be in the armrest.
Hope that helps guys! Any more questions, message me ⬇️
I’m actually curious, out of everything tested here, which one are you using in your personal vehicles? Also, you didn’t show how the phone connects to the adapter. Also also, you didn’t time how long a wired connection takes to launch CarPlay.
i have in my MB SLC the Carlin Kit adapter, but now an important thing. As mentioned power from the battery of the iPhone is a limited thing for longer rides for sample to a holiday destination or on business trips. Need now a cable again is a contraproductiv request to the cablefree dongles. Then I can direkt plug my phone to the car USB. Solution I made. There are magnetic wireless charger by QI available in very compakt size like the Apple charger which you can fit on your dasboard. Power will you get by chargers which you connect to your 12 V cigarette lighter. with such a combination i have the option to let my phone in the pocket on a short trip or tab my phone on the magnetic charger and by my experience this works for a day trip without any problems.
QUALITY AUDIO MUSIC
Question, have you noticed a better quality with any of these adapters? I noticed that CarPlay with cable is much better audio quality when playing Spotify.
Thanks
I’ve found the audio quality is always better over a cable where as wireless on any car / adapter fitted afterward it’s slightly less. Only slightly though and most may not notice.
Top notch @npoleary
My cplay2air worked well then started to drop off after 15min. Updated the firmware etc to no avail. Maybe it’s the CarPlay? Not spending my money to service the CarPlay. Back to wired.
I cannot understand why Mercedes do not have this function. I have just moved from Landrover and this is now standard across their range.
They’ve been rolling it out over the years. It takes quite a long time for a manufacturer to update 30 models! 🙃
There are quite a few that have it now and more coming out this year.
And again Sir , we can't thank you enough for your time and effort, making our rides more fun and safe.
No worries! Glad you’re enjoying the videos! 🙏🤓
Did you notice any difference in call quality going from wired to wireless?
No not at all, call quality is the lowest of bit rates anyway. Wish it was higher so I could actually hear what people are saying! 😅
Even music played back still sounds good! 👍🏼
Of course if you have high sound systems then you may wish to use a cable for the most optimum sound quality.
I can’t understand why one should need this. When I use cable I get CarPlay AND phone charging at the same time. Please enlighten me!!!
Some people like it more for a convenience factor.
I need my phone a lot so I prefer to charge via USB-C and make use of the faster charging speeds 🤓
I’m actually curious, out of everything tested here, which one are you using in your personal vehicles? Also, you didn’t show how the phone connects to the adapter.
I’ve actually upgraded my car since then so it now has native wireless CarPlay. Although I still choose to use the wire as I use my phone a lot so need the extra battery.
Ah it’s just as simple as connecting Bluetooth, it guides you on the screen what to do ☺️
Love the fact the review considers his older car and not some 2023 model!
I try and cover as many models as possible 🙏🤓
Hi nick, why there is Apple CarPlay is not working in my Mercedes a class 177 sport executive 180d 2018
Sadly only started my channel back in 2020 so have limited coverage on models prior to that in Mercedes. But one question, does the car have it? Are you 100% sure?
Are three sold in USA as well?
Thank you for taking the time to do this review.
Ottocast should shop internationally, they have options for the USA on their website too:
bit.ly/OttocastNickOLeary (link with discount code from description of my video)
To use wireless then use pass through charging on the adapter kind of defeats the point of the wireless as correct me if im wrong but using wired carplay, the phone charges aswell? By all means buy the wireless adapter but if you then have an issue charging your phone, if the wired carplay also charges your phone i dont see the point in switching to wireless.
Answered this in other comments below 🤓
Sorry I should have explained more in the video, I use my phone for TH-cam a lot so having a fully charged phone is quite important for me. So shorter journeys I’ll use wireless and longer journeys I’ll use the cable 🤓
After having tried both CarlinKit and Ottocast U2-X pro. Carlink was trash; U2-X pro works flawlessly.
Had no idea this was even a thing, many thanks for the video!
No worries! Glad you enjoyed it!
I moved over to Apple recently due to AirTag capability. I might be able to find an empty USB port in my 2019 F150 crew cab pickup. Let’s see: 2 on center console for rear pax, 2x in center console storage, 2x dash, 2x in semi hidden console in front of center console, 4x added on at rear of truck bed, and 2x 12v adapters. Topped off with 2x 110 AC outlets (stock). The 2x in the semi hidden actually connect to truck operating system including direct to media system! Most are used for powering GoPro and dash cams cameras and equipment as/when needed.
Here’s a helpful hint for many passenger style vehicles equipped with center roof mount rear view mirrors that auto dim at night (result from vehicles approaching from behind). There is an adapter available (Amazon) that gives USB A support. Great for mounting that extra dash cam! Powered only when vehicle is on! No native dash cam in my truck! Yes, I do use many when driving to keep various items charged for use!
I need this many USB ports in my car 👆
😅
Is there any way to make apple CarPlay use more of the screen? Like yours, mines seems to take up about half the available space…
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before.
The reason is because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing and coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything.
So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen.
NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Does what's app come through on the wireless adapter? ?
Yes it’s the full CarPlay experience
All apps are unchanged, it’s exactly the same as wired CarPlay
Amazing content. Thank you for your efforts!
Thank you! 🙏
Hi Nick, can the adapter be plugged into the centre arm rest usb area so it keeps the front centre usb free for charging your mobile
Some cars can but you’ll have to check!
I think from what I’ve seen and experienced, Mercedes models that have MBUX gen 2 can go into any USB-C port. But MBUX Gen 1 is only the USB-C port at the cup holders.
During the 18th century, Sweden (in this case, Gustavus Adolphus) wanted to develop its early industry, and cannon making in particular. The king as well as his powerful chancellor Axel Oxenstierna were friends with and invited the wealthy Dutch / Walloon Louis de Geer to help with that, so he came to Sweden in 1627, developing the Finspång cannon making in the province of Östergötland.
Louis de Geer brought with him a sizable force of Walloon metal workers, who settled in the area. They brought an old Walloon / Dutch song with them, which got a Swedish text, beginning with the words “Ack Östra Götaland och Finspånga län, fagrast bland Svea rikes länder” (which translated is something like “Oh Östergötland and Finspång county, fairest among the lands in Sweden”).
In 1822 the Swedish author Fryxell picked up this melody for a musical play he was writing, and changed the text, thus renaming the song “the Värmland tune” - about Värmland, another Swedish province, being fairest of them all. This is the version we listen to in this TH-cam clip!
The story does not en there, however. In 1856, the famous Czech composer Bedrock Smetana came to Gothenburg in Sweden, where he stayed for six years as a conductor for a “porto-version” of the Göteborg Symphony Orchestra. While in sweden, he picked up this tune, and came to incorporate it in his great work Ma Vlast (My Fatherland), where the part called Vltava (die Moldau) begins with the first bars of the Dutch / Valloon / Swedish song, which thus also got a Czech heritage!
Today, everybody in Sweden regards this beautiful tune “Värmlandsvisan” as quintessentially Swedish. For the Czechs, Vltava is part of their national heritage.
Is the melody still well-known in the Netherlands and the Walloon parts of Belgium? I don’t really know. Is the melody even originally from there? I don’t know either.
Thanks for this great video. I have a question. Once we connect to Carplay or Android Auto, the MBUX screen does not show the full screen. Is it a limitation of using carplay or Android Auto? How can we get a full screen when we connect carplay? Please share your suggestions.
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before.
The reason is because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing and coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything.
So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen.
NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Are you able to get full screen with any of these?
Sadly no it’s the car that controls the resolution not the adapters. Some cars might have a cropped experience because of the different screen sizes available on that model.
Which has best picture quality ?
Didn’t notice a difference between them to be honest. They were all the same
Hi, but you need carplay service from mercedes already buyed? Or those solutions will work without the service of carplay?
You need Apple CarPlay on the car in the first place yes. These devices to not add Apple CarPlay to your car, they just convert wired to wireless.
Hi Nick I’m about to purchase a CLA premium plus, I too have an Astra K Elite nav as my current car, plugging my iPhone into the K centre console has always been no issue for me and I like that it charges and just hides out the way. But was surprised that the only connection to the MBUX system was in that sliding door area which is also where the wireless charger is.
Do you think I’d be able to somewhat extend or move that box unit within that space so that it doesn’t hinder my use of the wireless charger? Maybe some sticky pads to hold it further into the drawer at the back or maybe even use an extension cable to wire it out of it completely and maybe hide it in the glove box or something obviously with all wires being hidden behind panels etc, I don’t want to ruin the beautiful interior with ugly cables and I don’t want to mount my phone on the dash.
For my small journeys it’s fine to just keep my phone in my pocket but on my big commutes I’d like the hassle free life of just slapping it on the wireless charger and not worrying about it. I’m a big lover of ACP and I absolute hate people who use phones at all whilst driving so this is a perfect use for me.
Love your videos, your videos have been a huge help in me deciding to get a CLA class so thank you, and keep up the good work.
Ah awesome thank you! Glad you’re enjoying the videos!
Ah that’s a good idea but yes that port that’s labelled is the one for CarPlay so yeah putting it into the glovebox would be quite a neat solution although you’d still see the cable slightly with the wire going in.
@@npoleary no no, thank you. Very informative vids. And I think I’d somewhat disassemble the centre console and hide the wire within the trim itself. A little bit of cable tidying would make this setup very sleek and modern. I’m used to hiding wires and fitting dashcams etc for every friend, family and their dog so I’m hoping this would work for me. Would definitely need one of the units with removable connection though. Again thank you, and even more so for your reply.
Can be connected with android mobile phone or not, other than iphone ?
Some of those adapters do offer it for Android Auto as well. Ottocast definitely offer it for them as I’ve seen it on their website 🤓
Nice test, but is there any lag?
There is always a slight delay when using Apple CarPlay Wirelessly. You’ll definitely notice it watching video (on the phone with the sound coming through the car, makes it unwatchable).
However…day to day use, navigation and music etc it’s fine. No different to an OEM fitted wireless CarPlay solution from a car that already has wireless capabilities.
So in short, yes there is but there’s always a lag wirelessly (if you notice it)
Hows the phone battery drain ??
Can this be left connected with car when not driving?
Well if you’re using CarPlay Wirelessly yes it will drain the phone battery but for shorter journeys it’s pretty good.
That depends on your car, most cars will cut the power to USB ports, for Mercedes looks like the power is turned off when the door is opened.
Was the adaptor that did not work from Quad Lock? because I had issues with mine
Yes 👍🏼
But I messaged them and they shipped a new one out to me over the next couple of days! Sadly I’d already started filming so couldn’t include that one. So after sales support, pretty good!
Hi Nick, thanks as always! Quick question - most mercs as you know don’t have touch screen (though I do wonder why) and it makes navigating CarPlay a bit tricky. Do you know any workaround for this? Either to introudce touchscreen or to device an easier way to navigate CarPlay screen using buttons. It’s not so much an issue if all you need is the basic CarPlay apps, but as soon as you connect any play-to-video CarPlay device, you will easily see the need for a touch screen. Tips and ideas would be appreciated.
It just depends on the car’s multimedia system. Most new Mercedes now will have touchscreen, this is what I’ve seen but for any older models, I guess just mastering the wheel would do it. I have used one with the wheel before and you do get used to where the selector cursor goes etc.
But yeah if a car doesn’t have touchscreen, there wouldn’t be a way to make a touchscreen. There is also the option of using Siri too!
@@npoleary Thanks Nick. Like you said, I guess i just need to get used to it. Ta
I can't see the point of these if you don't have wireless charging, (which I don't).
Am I missing something here?
Hi Nick....question. How does one go about having both wireless Apple CarPlay AND wireless charging in the vehicle? What product or products are needed? I can't help but think (correct me if I am wrong) that nobody has a single product that provides both wireless Apple CarPlay capabilities and wireless charging and that such a device would probably need 2 wires, one to charge the phone (higher wattage) and one to provide the bluetooth signal to a vehicle's USB port that normally provides a wired Apple CarPlay connection to provide for wireless Apple CarPlay.
Thoughts? Thanks.
Well some cars have Wireless CarPlay and a wireless charger but I’ve not come across a 3rd party product that does both.
You could always get a wireless charger and plug it into a 12v socket but I’d much rather just plug a phone in. They won’t get as hot and charge faster too
Does a 2020 c43 have wireless car play I think it has wired but I don’t pick mine up until tomorrow
I don’t believe so, I’m sure wireless came out in 2022 on the C-Class
Well done. Very informative 👌
Is there any way to watch TH-cam with out a Hotspot
Some new models of Mercedes offer this using the car’s in built internet but I’ve only seen this with a dedicated TH-cam app on CLE and E-Class 2024.
I have a GLA 2022 and CarPlay does not work wireless. Do you know why? Or is it just specific face lifts which supports it?
Wireless CarPlay was introduced in the facelift which came out late 2023.
Anything before that is wired Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto but using 3rd party add-ons you can make it wireless.
Hi Nick
I bought the Feinodi for 2019 GLC220d 4 Matic , the dongle is paired but nothing comes up on screen
Please advise where I am going wrong or if it’s compatible with MBuX
On the MB App Store is asking me to do one off payment
Hi Nick thanks for your reply. I now have another question. Normally I listen to music from a memory stick via dongle, great it goes from tune to tune . Now I have apple car play with ottocast u2 device the music still plays but the same song over and over again. Any quick solutions please would be appreciated.
Thanks Nick
That’ll be because you’ve got repeat enabled on your phone
What app are you using? Apple Music, Spotify, TH-cam music etc
Just change it on your phone or on the now playing screen 👍🏼
How did you get Apple car play onto your Mercedes A-class? I have one and I don’t have it.
What year A-Class do you have?
I have a 21 AMG and always thought it sucked mot having wireless car play. But I don’t text and drive and realized there is no benefit to me. I have 5 USB C ports and wireless charging so charging multiple devices isn’t an issue. I was driving a rental with wireless CarPlay and my phone was so hot and even plugging it in to charge, it was burning up and not charging. I just plug it up and keep it pushing. Only pain in the ass is Mercedes put the CarPlay port up front by the cupholders and not in the center console. So it is an ugly site.
I have a 2023 e350 and for some reason my Apple car play is small on my screen. If I purchase one of these parts will I be able to get the full screen car play? Please help
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before.
For Mercedes it’s a common question which I’ve answered on my FAQ series here: th-cam.com/video/N9x56XWdjIo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mlzuNGtciSlsdcdb&t=537
Basically it’s because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing & coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything.
So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen.
NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Sadly the adapter won’t make a difference as it’s the car’s screen
Hi do these work with a bmw please on I drive 7 I have a iPhone and really won’t to mirror image but can’t I would also love to get Netflix and TH-cam but don’t no how
They possibly would do if it has wired Apple CarPlay. Check with the adapter manufacturer first though or see if they have a return policy 🤓
I’ll try and cover that in the future!
I bought my Apple CarPlay adapter last month and was searching for this kind of video but could not find it. This will be useful to others in the future who want to change thier wired to wireless CarPlay
I have added an aftermarket head unit to my car, and I am currently connecting my I phone to the head unit via a USB cable, would I be able to use one this adapters to go wireless?
Possibly! They are designed to convert wired to wireless for all CarPlay makes and models.
Either check with the adapter manufacturer, or make sure they have a refund policy in place 🤓
Hello (I'm from Canada)
I watch your videos a lot, it's very interesting and very well explained........ I had a question for you with the Mercedes Me app, when I start the car remotely, is this normal? that the vehicle turns off when I unlock the door, the car stops turning and I have to restart the car with the button
I have a new 2023 C 300.
Hey! Thank you! Glad you enjoy the videos!
Sadly I wouldn’t know, that feature does not exist here in the UK. I think it is though, I seem to recall someone asking a long time ago on one of my videos and someone replied yes it was normal.
Thoughts on carlinkit 5.0?
Sadly not tried that one so not sure if it’s any good!
Those CPlay2 air adapters only converts wired apple car play to wireless or it can also be use to as apple car play ?
Yes they only convert Wired to Wireless, your car will need to have wired CarPlay to be compatible 🤓
I’m a bit confused here. Whats the point of having a wireless CarPlay adapter if you’re just going to plug it in to pass through charge? Effectively meaning you still have to plug it in? Genuinely asking because I may want to try this with my car which currently offers wired CarPlay only.
I should have explained more in the video sorry.
I said in the video “it’s important to me” but didn’t say why.
Jumping in and out of the car for short journeys, wireless is great. Longer journeys I’d rather arrive with a full battery especially with running my TH-cam channel. I respond to all of the comments (where I can) on my phone 😅
Plus I need it plugged in when filming the screen and capturing CarPlay for videos.
Normal use though, wireless is great 👍🏼
Hey Nick, My 2023 GLB doesn't have a full screen carplay, do you know a carplay that can cast carplay in full screen, thanks.
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before.
For Mercedes it’s a common question which I’ve answered on my FAQ series here: th-cam.com/video/N9x56XWdjIo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mlzuNGtciSlsdcdb&t=537
Basically it’s because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing & coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything.
So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen.
NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
@@npoleary That makes sense, thank you so much for your expert comments.
It's so unfortunate that Merc is not providing full screen Car play which is pretty standard these days in other brands.
No worries! Well Mercedes do, it just not all models. Some models have two screen sizes but the ones that have just one screen size get full screen CarPlay.
Nick, which ones don’t need to have the wifi enabled to work? Are there any which just needed Bluetooth?
Apple CarPlay always runs over Wi-Fi that’s how it works. Sadly there is no such thing as CarPlay over Bluetooth, Bluetooth can’t transmit images in that way and isn’t as reliable as Wi-Fi.
Nick, I'm missing something - why is charging pass though a concern on a device meant to support wireless connectivity..? Why not just use that USB port and get connected and power? Thanks for your videos, I've watched a few.
Hey I have replied to a few comments below on the same question so sorry I should have mentioned in the video to clarify what I meant.
Wireless is super convenient but running a TH-cam Channel full time, I might need to travel somewhere hours away so I’ll usually do this for pass through charging:
Short Trips: Wireless, super convenient, phone can stay in pocket.
Long Trips: Wired, so have a charged battery when I get there
Hope that helps clarify!
Hi Nick, how can I get full screen android auto or carplay on MB GLB/A screen?
Sadly not all cars can do full screen CarPlay. There are other manufacturers who have come across the same before.
For Mercedes it’s a common question which I’ve answered on my FAQ series here: th-cam.com/video/N9x56XWdjIo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mlzuNGtciSlsdcdb&t=537
Basically it’s because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing & coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything.
So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen.
NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Another great video. Surprised after all these videos, Poole haven’t put you in a Merc!
Thank you! No I doubt they’d do that, that would be a lot of money! 🤓
Might be in the middle of changing my car though 🤫
can you also stream it to rear entertainment screens?
Sadly not with CarPlay or Android Auto
Some cars have rear screen options, I’d love to check them out one day!
Nick, which ones had the best lag when making a call?
All wireless adapters have a slight delay, but I didn’t notice any differences between them 🤓
Does it automatically connect to CarPlay when I start the vehicle if I already have the adapter plugged in to my car? Or do I need to power it on myself first?
Automatically starts as long as the car would automatically start normally.
So before buying, if you test it by leaving your phone plugged in to your car. Lock it and wait 5 mins, then unlock, get in and drive off. If it automatically connects (most do) then having an adapter would offer the same process.
I've been using an older version of the C2Play for years but got tired of the slow boot up time. I've been comparing the Teeran and Schmidt Spiele as replacements (both on Amazon). The former will boot up as fast as 12 seconds from a cold boot. When already plugged in, it can boot up to full functionality in less than 5 seconds. The Spiele is usually 18 or so seconds. Did you compare map performance? I've noticed the C2Play uses the cars GPS while the other two use the phone's GPS. It's not an issue if you have the phone on the dash, but I usually keep my phone in my back pocket and GPS performance can be pretty bad.
Oh really? That’s cool they sound fast! CarPlay will always use the phone’s GPS as it is your phone. Your phone calculates all of the functionality and merely displays it on the screen so won’t ever use the in-built gps, that’s for the car’s Sat Nav.
@@npoleary There's definitely something different between the 2. If the phone is in my back pocket, CarPlay will pick up my location instantly. The other two adapters usually require I take the phone out of my pocket before it picks up GPS. I did a quick video this AM to show the speed of the Teeran.
th-cam.com/users/shorts6bmcS1HUhIA?feature=share
Oh yeah that’s pretty fast! 🤓
Why does the wifi disconnect on iphone when using carplay? Is there any way to use wifi while using carplay?
CarPlay uses WiFi to ensure a stable connection. That’s how it works so sadly no iPhones don’t allow to connect to another network at the same time.
@@npoleary that’s unfortunate, but thanks for the clarification
Do any of these have delayed audio? I bought one on aliexpress and its delaying audio for 2 seconds
Yes all Wireless CarPlay is delayed
That’s not these adapters, even in OEM manufacturer fitted CarPlay over wireless is delayed. Wired won’t have that delay 👍🏼
@@npoleary Wow i didnt knew. I once drove a bmw i3 and could remember apple carplay wireless wasnt delayed
I think it depends on the multimedia system and who makes it. But certainly every car I’ve tested, there is a noticeable delay. I guess it could vary between a second or two. So if I’m watching video on my phone (while parked) but the audio goes through the car wirelessly, it’s unwatchable due to the audio sync delay. Wired is fine though!
These adapters were all the same in terms of delay, so I didn’t mention in the video. How that helps! Any other questions, message me back! 🤓
@@npoleary thanks
Hi as normal great knowledge , would that be your car your trying them on ?
Yes 🤓
For some reason one of them didn’t work on my Vauxhall Astra (upgrading it soon though! 👀)
I love the fact that you have an Astra. ❤😄
Well spotted! 😅
Had it for 3-4 years now…Changing it soon 👀
My GLB (2024 model) did not come with CarPlay installed. If I invest in one of these devices, will I be able to have CarPlay or do I need to activate/purchase it first (through Mercedes Me)?
You will need to make sure the car has CarPlay first, sadly these devices just convert the wired bit to wireless, they don’t give a car Apple CarPlay
ATTENTION!!! Guys do not use their original mount that blocks your view driving. I bought 2 heavy duty magnet phone holder that attaches to your AC vent in that way and stick my wireless carplay to it. And won’t block your view and to avoid accident.
New to your channel but find them hugely informative as i just picked up a 73 plate GLB Night Edition today and so far can’t see any wireless Apple CarPlay functionality. Smartphone integration is all activated through the Mercedes Me App and every other service also as the car is brand new.
Am I missing something or is the GLB Premium Plus not enabled for it?
Messaged you on the other video 👍🏼
Thank you glad you enjoyed the videos! Wireless is only available on certain models (typically models without a touchpad in the middle).
It depends on the specification of your car for CarPlay if it has it or not but if you chat with Mercedes, they can let you know for sure. Usually it’s a USB-C port next to the cup holders.
Hey Nick
Don’t suppose you could recommend a good phone holder for those of us who don’t have car play as older model of mercedes please?
Sadly not tried phone holders but keep an eye out over the next couple of months. I have a plan for people who don’t have CarPlay natively on their car. Make sure you’re subscribed (it’s free) with notifications on so you don’t miss it 👍🏼
@@npoleary great look forward to it!
Do you know if this would work on a Ssangyong Tivoli?
Sadly not no, you’ll have to check with the adapter manufacturers.
They should work but check with them for compatibility 🤓
Hi guys. How to check if My 2018 A class w177 has wired or wireless carplay? Asking before paying for activation fee 🤔
Wireless CarPlay came out in 2023 so if it’s 2018 it’ll be wired via the USB-C ports. Just bear in mind before buying, it stays with the car (so if you sell the car it’ll go to the next owner) and the screen will be slightly cropped due to the two screen sizes available.
Although this is a year old, the video here show’s you what it’ll look like: th-cam.com/video/ptgKnZJnaRc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=ucOS8HCzNZyzEI6y
Why is pass through charging even a consideration? If you are connecting it to power then you are not wireless and you may as well use the factory wired CarPlay solution.
Sorry should have made it clearer on the video
Pass through charging is important to me, I’ll be using wireless CarPlay going forward but when producing the videos I sometimes use my phone to capture CarPlay footage on the screen. I’ll need it plugged in then or the battery will be flat at the end of filming.
Having the option of both is just good for me personally
Only takes one second to plug your phone in with wired connection and your phone charges also. My cable is only 2 inches long . Stick to cable for me
Hi Nick - have you tested if maps would display on heads-up display. I have C2play and I have noticed maps do not show up on heads up display. I have 2022 GLS 450. Additionally I have noticed while connected to CarPlay through these adapters they do not apply any music equalizer changes in effect and sound quality isn’t great then. Please let me know if you are able to see maps on your onscreen display while using these adapters. Thanks
No sadly Apple CarPlay will only operate on the centre screen.
Apple did announce last year they were working with manufacturers to enable Apple CarPlay in the instrument cluster but this is extremely early stages. It won’t have support in new cars for a while yet if manufacturers choose to use it.
There is one manufacturer who has done it already, I might cover them soon 👀
I have a 2019 mercedes b class. I can't access carplay because I have to buy this option from mercedes to be enable.. if I use this ottocast u2-air will carplay work?
So you’ll need CarPlay on the car first, sadly these adapters do not give a car CarPlay they only convert wired to wireless
Which one will provide full screen Apple CarPlay? It’s still limited.. so annoying!
I wish it was full screen too but there are other manufacturers who have come across the same issue before.
The reason is because MBUX (also known as NTG 6) on Mercedes is available in two screen sizes, 7” & 10.25”. When designing and coding I’m led to believe that you can only choose one (to maintain compatibility) for everything.
So to make sure it works on all models, Mercedes of course had to go with the 7” version, which is perfect for 7” owners but of course leads to a cropped experience if you have a 10.25” screen.
NTG 7 found in some new cars have higher faster processors and have one screen size leading to a full screen experience on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hope that explains potentially why it’s like that on some cars!
Nick, having wireless Car Play has got me thinking about what happens to users of Mercedes Me when 3G is turned off, perhaps later this year. Will owners of pre 2020 cars lose all the Mercedes Me benefits, or will Mercedes offer a workaround ?
Yeah I’ve heard of this happening too with the 3G network being switched off. I can imagine it would affect a lot of devices and cars too! Not sure why the UK have decided to turn 3G off so soon, I’m pretty sure most pay terminals (card readers in shops) use 3G.
For CarPlay that wouldn’t affect anything in the car, CarPlay runs off of your phone 🤓 so as long as your phone can run on 4G or 5G, you’ll be good 👍🏼
Does the 2023 CLA 35 AMG MBUX supports WIRELESS Apple Car Play or Android Auto?
Mercedes released a new facelift CLA last year, I covered it in October: th-cam.com/video/Wie56TRlBJM/w-d-xo.html
So depends if it’s the new one or not. If it has a touchpad in the middle, it’s the previous one. If it doesn’t have a touchpad then it’s the new facelift with wireless CarPlay.
Does this works on a DFSK Forthing 4 U-Tour?
Honestly I hadn’t heard of the name so had to look it up but it should work with any car that already has Apple CarPlay. So if you plug it in, then it should do exactly as shown in the video.
Best thing to do is check the description of the one you’re looking at, or even the support of the adapter manufacturer. Even worst case, I’m sure if you had ordered and it didn’t work, you could probably send back but check with them for refund rules etc
Hope that helps! 🤓
Ok thanks for the reply! @@npoleary