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.
@@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
U still have to charge ur phone anyway, wireless CarPlay drain your battery fast, and with cable you get better connection. In fact audio is way better when it’s connected by wire than wireless.
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
I wish Mercedes proposed a wireless retrofit option for their recent models. Got a 2022 E class coupe recently and I love it, but not having the wireless carplay spoils the party a little bit.
No need for a “retrofit” as such 🤓 These devices do exactly that 👊🏼 Just make a really small usb cable is used so it can be hidden out of sight. Once it’s in then it’s almost a set it and forget it.
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.
Hi Nick, I have the FeinOdi. Included adapter for USB to USB C is very bad and caused losing connection at every bump in the road. I replaced it for a right angled adapter to be able to close the cover of the cup holders (pro tip 😂😂). Just drove from Holland to Spain without a problem or losing connection. Hope this helps!
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 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 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.
Very informative video I’m glad I found this. Minutes ago I didn’t know that these products even existed. I’m looking to upgrade to a MagSafe (wireless charger) when i upgrade from iPhone 11 max to the new iPhone 15 max next week. I wasn’t going to bother if I still needed to plug in for CarPlay. Subscribed 🙏 thanks again
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.
Good evening Mr O'Leary. very good on the cables, when some of my friends need a cable they usually as me for one, as iv got every cable you could think of keep up the cool reviews i was off for coffee today down at lidl car park where i came across a gent charging his EQC Merc i thought spot on, i asked him about the flappy paddles and charging he was there for one hour he came up from London to Nottingham which is 200 miles while i was there talking to him i could not believe it in that hour he hit the 100% charge as wee no not that long ago on average most cars could only get to 80% charge after that it was a waist of time continuing to charge, his price was £31 i have to say that is good im very impressed, im looking at the end of this year maybe saving up my deposit i have a lot of time working out what I'm going to buy with option PCP for me is the best way to go especialy for electric cars as in 4 years from now i bet the batteries are at least 100 Kilos less in weight take it easy happy driving 👍
Thank you! Glad you’re enjoying the videos! Ah yes well it depends on where you get your electricity from when charging an EV. Cost and time of charge all vary! I’ll cover more on these topics in the future definitely!
I should have asked what power that charge point gives out I’ll find out as it’s the charge point I have to use, as I don’t live near the road in other words not able to charge from a home charger
@@npoleary iv just given a guy a ear bashing over the new NEW Range Rover Velar Model Year 2024 flapping his gums on lights wheels etc ye not bad till it gets Stolen there the number 1 car for this on Rybrook TV
What about Android? Remind me again, this is *Mercedes* and you have to use a cable!? This should just be a software update as my phone can connect to the car via Bluetooth. Great video Nick and thanks for making
Ah I’ll hopefully cover Android in the future! I do have one in a drawer at home so I’ll see what I can do Some Mercedes do have wireless, all new models released that are rolling out seem to have it now
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.
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.
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.
Interesting review and really well presented. Interested to know if you had any problems with reconnection of any of the adapters you tested following initial pairing, especially when connecting within vicinity of home WiFi or with another device BT connected to your iPhone, e.g. Apple Watch? This is something I’ve personally had issues with causing a connection delay with my wireless CarPlay adapter I’ve recently purchased from Amazon. The times I’ve tested this with my iPhone still connected to my home WiFi, connection was delayed and was only established once the adapter forced a WiFi connection to Apple CarPlay.
Thank you! Didn’t have any problems at all, the only thing I will add is the Wi-Fi one. This is not an issue with these adapters, this can happen even with a manufacture fitted Wireless CarPlay, sometimes you can find it will want to stay connected to your home WiFi but as you drive away it’ll connect shortly afterward. Apple Watch no issues at all.
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 ☺️
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!
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 ⬇️
Thanks Nick. Somehow you always know what's on my mind. I've been looking at these products but wanted a trusted review from someone I trust who's familiar with the Mercedes Benz ecosystem. So far I'm happy with my wired system but may be grabbing one of these someday soon.
Hi Nick, very informative Does any of these wireless compatible shown a full on the dashboard? My GLE shown nearly quarter of the screen with the wire connector
No sadly not it’s down the car manufacturer’s screen and multimedia system. So for Mercedes 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!
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.
Was waiting for a comparison like this for a very long time. Immediately ordered the Air for my GLB. If it works fine, will get another one for my Volvo as well. Used your referral on their site
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)
I had CarlinKit 3.0, it worked very well, only after a year it broke 😡. Too bad Apple doesn't make these devices. Probably more expensive but more solid.
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!
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!
I still can’t understand how in 2023/24 we still have to use a fk cable to use AppleCar. I have same thing with Kia Ceed GT it’s so annoying. Best bit that most manufacturers don’t state that you have to connect applecar with cable. Your video is amazing mate. I am planning to buy one before I will change car. Definitely will do better research for applecar before any purchase.
No sadly not They only convert wired Apple CarPlay to wireless. There are systems out there that can do it, I might try it in the future and test them out!
I really wanted to put the prices on there but as there were 4-5 different makes, if they changed the price, then the video would be wrong. Plus Ottocast had offers on at the time of recording and I didn’t know how long for.
Continue to love the video's - I have a 2022 AMG E53. Do you know if you have to plug into the USB-C adapter in the drink/wireless charging area of the console, or could you connect those adapters to the USB-C plugs in the centre armrest area too? The drink/wireless charging area is extremely tight fitting, not sure any of those adapters would fit well.
Thank you! It has to go in the port that works with Apple CarPlay (the one you’d normally use) So if you have one near the cup holders, I’d imagine it would be in there. Also has a symbol next to it too 👍🏼
Great video Nick, just what I was looking for to compare adapters on show. I do have a question, I am picking up a brand new Mercedes A-Class today, I know it has CarPlay. However, I've read contradicting information as to whether it's wireless CarPlay built in. The dealer in question isn't too sure, do you know?
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it If it’s the new A-Class (facelift) it will have wireless CarPlay 🤓 (for the UK anyway) I just picked mine up (my latest video 👀)
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 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.
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 personally don’t see the point in a pass through for charging, because if you’re going to connect the phone to a wire, you’ve defeated the object of using CarPlay wirelessly. If the battery is an issue then hopefully you can use your car’s wireless charging pad. Otherwise, just cut out the middleman and connect the phone with a wire, which gives you a reliable CarPlay connection AND charges the phone.
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 👍🏼
Thanks for the video, nice to see these adapters compared side by side. I’m just wondering what the delay on these things would be. Is it noticeable and is it different for each unit? Would have loved to see that in the review as well.
Thank you! Yes I was going to include it but they’re all the same (visually and audibly). There is however a delay whenever you use wireless on any adapter or native solutions built into cars. Wired of course removes that 🤓
Hi Nick, I have a MB 70reg. Are you able to safely leave wireless car play adapters connected to your cars USBC port without draining your car battery when you lock up and leave ur car? And do the wireless adapters use much car battery when in use? Thanks for the informative videos
Yeah of course! When you turn the car off and open the door, all the power is cut to the USB ports I don’t know what their power consumption is but it’ll be way less than charging a phone
Hey Vin, oh? Really? I edit all of the videos myself and watch them back usually at least twice with headphones. Where abouts did you hear this in the video? Could you let me know? I want to so sure that the quality of my videos is the best I can do
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.
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 - 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 👀
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.
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
Hi Nick can it be plugged into the usb in the arm rest area, I’m looking at getting a MagSafe and plugging the lead into the front area usb to charge the phone, great reviews on the EQA 👍🏻
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.
whats the point of having wireless android or apple car play if you still need to connect your phone to charge it !!?? Nick, you are a very nice guy , always willing to be helpful and I really appreciate that, so much so that I come here watch your movies very often, but in my opinion you need to be more objective, for instance, the other day I was looking for instructions how to use the adaptive cruise control, I had to give up and read the manual. Anyway: thanks a lot for all your effort and expertise 👍
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 👍🏼
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.
Hi Nick, just wondering if the adapter only work with connecting the port which is near the cupholder, if the ports in the armrest are working as well? If I put the adapter in the front, it will take the wireless charging space. Many thanks for you help.
Thanks for another great video Nick. I have a GLE and when iPhone is connected by wire the nav info shows up in the centre window in the dashboard (basic direction arrow/next turn/current/next road name). My wireless Carlinkit 3.0 mini works well but doesn't pass the nav info to the centre dash. Did you happen to come across any wireless adapters that do this like wired CarPlay? Thank you !
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'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
Personally, I don’t quite get why the pass through charging matters in the way that, if you need to charge the phone you’ll have the wired CarPlay instantly.
Thanks! Sorry I should I explained more, it matters to me as I would love to use Wireless but when reviewing cars and making tutorials I will need to charge on the fly. So wireless on normal days are great but filming the screen and producing videos in the car, perfect for plugging in
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 👍🏼
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 👍🏼
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
Thanks for your efforts Nick. Just wanted to share to MB owners that my cplay2air was not fully compatible with my MB C63S AMG. Sometimes it would work- sometimes I would have a black screen and I would have to fiddle with it to get it up and running- thus unusable on the long term. The support proposed a FW update, which made things even worse. I tried to return it, but was told I have to send it to China and indicate a value of 5 usd (I paid 129 usd for it). As i was uncertain the unit would be reimbursed, I preferred not to incur an extra 30 usd shipping fee and now it’s sitting in a drawer taking dust. Not recommended for C-Class models and certainly others I don’t know about.
I agree cplay2air did work on my 2019 c-class but 8/10 it would give a black screen and then had to push home button and then top screen go to apple carplay. I got annoyed by this. So i bought the ottobox this works better, but still if you stop for gas and get back and start then it stops working. Also the ottobox bluetooth keeps working after the car is shutdown, but you phone still connects but the receiving end will hear a hard beeping noise. So its not perfect. Luckily i will upgrade to a c-class 23 soon :-)
Hello, would the dongle work if connected in the usb ports inside the arm rest? My 2021’ amg has a wired CarPlay port next to my cup holders and I’d prefer to have the dongle hidden inside the arm rest ports if possible. Thank you!
@roneljusto8602 just replied to your other comment as well: It has to be plugged into the same port of the car that accepts a wired connection. Some allow more than one port but you can try…if you plug your phone into the centre ports, if it works through CarPlay, then the adapter will work in there too. If it doesn’t then you’ll have to use the cup holder one.
Hi Nick, I just bought a ottocast u2 adapter for my glass, it works but should I see everything that is on my iPhone? Keep up the very useful videos. Alan 9:52
Oh nice! You won’t be able to view every app on an iPhone though. Apple CarPlay is the same if it’s wired or wireless. These adapters just make wired to wireless
![Best Wireless Apple Carplay Adapters 2025 [Watch Before You Buy One]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/2or308hMd7Y/mqdefault.jpg)
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 🤓
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
U still have to charge ur phone anyway, wireless CarPlay drain your battery fast, and with cable you get better connection. In fact audio is way better when it’s connected by wire than wireless.
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.
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!
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.
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?
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
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?
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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)
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😁
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 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.
I wish Mercedes proposed a wireless retrofit option for their recent models.
Got a 2022 E class coupe recently and I love it, but not having the wireless carplay spoils the party a little bit.
No need for a “retrofit” as such 🤓
These devices do exactly that 👊🏼
Just make a really small usb cable is used so it can be hidden out of sight. Once it’s in then it’s almost a set it and forget it.
Love the fact the review considers his older car and not some 2023 model!
I try and cover as many models as possible 🙏🤓
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.
Hi Nick, I have the FeinOdi. Included adapter for USB to USB C is very bad and caused losing connection at every bump in the road. I replaced it for a right angled adapter to be able to close the cover of the cup holders (pro tip 😂😂). Just drove from Holland to Spain without a problem or losing connection. Hope this helps!
Ah thanks for sharing! That’s a good idea! I might look at that right angled thing for the future!
@tuinlaaf1967 do you have a link for the right hand drive adapter.
Goes to show cheap doesn't always mean worse! Good video.
Thank you! Yeah it surprised me!
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!
After having tried both CarlinKit and Ottocast U2-X pro. Carlink was trash; U2-X pro works flawlessly.
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
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 👆
😅
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.
Very informative video I’m glad I found this. Minutes ago I didn’t know that these products even existed. I’m looking to upgrade to a MagSafe (wireless charger) when i upgrade from iPhone 11 max to the new iPhone 15 max next week. I wasn’t going to bother if I still needed to plug in for CarPlay. Subscribed 🙏 thanks again
Thank you! 🙏🙏
Glad you enjoyed the video! 🤓
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! 🙏🤓
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.
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 have a Citroen C5 with wireless charging. The video was very informative. I am going to look into the cheaper option.
Good evening Mr O'Leary.
very good on the cables, when some of my friends need a cable they usually as me for one, as iv got every cable you could think of
keep up the cool reviews
i was off for coffee today down at lidl car park where i came across a gent charging his EQC Merc i thought spot on, i asked him about the flappy paddles and charging he was there for one hour he came up from London to Nottingham which is 200 miles while i was there talking to him i could not believe it in that hour he hit the 100% charge as wee no not that long ago on average most cars could only get to 80% charge after that it was a waist of time continuing to charge, his price was £31 i have to say that is good im very impressed, im looking at the end of this year maybe saving up my deposit i have a lot of time working out what I'm going to buy with option PCP for me is the best way to go especialy for electric cars as in 4 years from now i bet the batteries are at least 100 Kilos less in weight take it easy happy driving 👍
Thank you! Glad you’re enjoying the videos!
Ah yes well it depends on where you get your electricity from when charging an EV. Cost and time of charge all vary!
I’ll cover more on these topics in the future definitely!
I should have asked what power that charge point gives out I’ll find out as it’s the charge point I have to use, as I don’t live near the road in other words not able to charge from a home charger
You can check on Zapmap 🤓👀
@@npoleary I will thank you 👍🏻
@@npoleary iv just given a guy a ear bashing over the new NEW Range Rover Velar Model Year 2024 flapping his gums on lights wheels etc ye not bad till it gets Stolen there the number 1 car for this on Rybrook TV
What about Android? Remind me again, this is *Mercedes* and you have to use a cable!? This should just be a software update as my phone can connect to the car via Bluetooth. Great video Nick and thanks for making
Ah I’ll hopefully cover Android in the future! I do have one in a drawer at home so I’ll see what I can do
Some Mercedes do have wireless, all new models released that are rolling out seem to have it now
Had no idea this was even a thing, many thanks for the video!
No worries! Glad you enjoyed it!
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
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.
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.
Interesting review and really well presented. Interested to know if you had any problems with reconnection of any of the adapters you tested following initial pairing, especially when connecting within vicinity of home WiFi or with another device BT connected to your iPhone, e.g. Apple Watch?
This is something I’ve personally had issues with causing a connection delay with my wireless CarPlay adapter I’ve recently purchased from Amazon. The times I’ve tested this with my iPhone still connected to my home WiFi, connection was delayed and was only established once the adapter forced a WiFi connection to Apple CarPlay.
Thank you! Didn’t have any problems at all, the only thing I will add is the Wi-Fi one. This is not an issue with these adapters, this can happen even with a manufacture fitted Wireless CarPlay, sometimes you can find it will want to stay connected to your home WiFi but as you drive away it’ll connect shortly afterward. Apple Watch no issues at all.
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 ☺️
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
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 love the fact that you have an Astra. ❤😄
Well spotted! 😅
Had it for 3-4 years now…Changing it soon 👀
Thanks Nick. Somehow you always know what's on my mind. I've been looking at these products but wanted a trusted review from someone I trust who's familiar with the Mercedes Benz ecosystem. So far I'm happy with my wired system but may be grabbing one of these someday soon.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the video 🤓🙏
Maybe add ones with features that allow payback of Netflix/TH-cam etc. Naturally not for while driving, but for when you are charging…
Absolutely, I’ll see if I can check them out in the future! 🤓
Hi Nick, very informative
Does any of these wireless compatible shown a full on the dashboard?
My GLE shown nearly quarter of the screen with the wire connector
No sadly not it’s down the car manufacturer’s screen and multimedia system. So for Mercedes 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!
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.
Amazing content. Thank you for your efforts!
Thank you! 🙏
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 🤫
thanks again very useful video, I'm learning all features of my mercedes from your videos. Keep going!!
Thank you! 🙏🙏 I’ll keep them coming! 🤓
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! 👀)
Was waiting for a comparison like this for a very long time. Immediately ordered the Air for my GLB. If it works fine, will get another one for my Volvo as well. Used your referral on their site
Thank you! Ah good at least you’ll get a bit off the price!
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)
I had CarlinKit 3.0, it worked very well, only after a year it broke 😡. Too bad Apple doesn't make these devices. Probably more expensive but more solid.
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.
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!
I still can’t understand how in 2023/24 we still have to use a fk cable to use AppleCar. I have same thing with Kia Ceed GT it’s so annoying. Best bit that most manufacturers don’t state that you have to connect applecar with cable. Your video is amazing mate. I am planning to buy one before I will change car. Definitely will do better research for applecar before any purchase.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!
Most models coming out now do have Apple CarPlay wireless but yes always good to check!
Hi Nick,
Thanks for this useful video.
Quick question : can any of these allow to play TH-cam on MBUX ?
Cheers, Kim
No sadly not
They only convert wired Apple CarPlay to wireless.
There are systems out there that can do it, I might try it in the future and test them out!
@@npoleary Excellent. Please let us know about your recommendations once you've tested them, your recommendations are the only ones we trust.
Good summary. Would have been great to have a table with the results and prices for the different models. Thanks for sharing 👍🏼
I really wanted to put the prices on there but as there were 4-5 different makes, if they changed the price, then the video would be wrong.
Plus Ottocast had offers on at the time of recording and I didn’t know how long for.
Continue to love the video's - I have a 2022 AMG E53. Do you know if you have to plug into the USB-C adapter in the drink/wireless charging area of the console, or could you connect those adapters to the USB-C plugs in the centre armrest area too? The drink/wireless charging area is extremely tight fitting, not sure any of those adapters would fit well.
Thank you!
It has to go in the port that works with Apple CarPlay (the one you’d normally use)
So if you have one near the cup holders, I’d imagine it would be in there. Also has a symbol next to it too 👍🏼
Great video Nick, just what I was looking for to compare adapters on show.
I do have a question, I am picking up a brand new Mercedes A-Class today, I know it has CarPlay. However, I've read contradicting information as to whether it's wireless CarPlay built in.
The dealer in question isn't too sure, do you know?
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it
If it’s the new A-Class (facelift) it will have wireless CarPlay 🤓 (for the UK anyway)
I just picked mine up (my latest video 👀)
@@npoleary It was indeed, just got it home, totally in love, and you were right, it worked as if by magic.
Another great video as always :)
Awesome! 🥳
I’ve already clocked up the miles on mine 😅 been busy! 😂
@@npoleary Ditto man.
We should arrange an A-Class meetup 🤣
@jonathani wish I’d have bought something better than an A180 for that! 😅
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!
Can u do the same for Android auto ?
I’ll add it to the list of potential future videos! 👍🏼
Thanks for the suggestion!
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.
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 personally don’t see the point in a pass through for charging, because if you’re going to connect the phone to a wire, you’ve defeated the object of using CarPlay wirelessly. If the battery is an issue then hopefully you can use your car’s wireless charging pad. Otherwise, just cut out the middleman and connect the phone with a wire, which gives you a reliable CarPlay connection AND charges the phone.
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 👍🏼
Thanks for the video, nice to see these adapters compared side by side. I’m just wondering what the delay on these things would be. Is it noticeable and is it different for each unit? Would have loved to see that in the review as well.
Thank you! Yes I was going to include it but they’re all the same (visually and audibly).
There is however a delay whenever you use wireless on any adapter or native solutions built into cars. Wired of course removes that 🤓
Hi Nick, I have a MB 70reg. Are you able to safely leave wireless car play adapters connected to your cars USBC port without draining your car battery when you lock up and leave ur car? And do the wireless adapters use much car battery when in use? Thanks for the informative videos
Yeah of course!
When you turn the car off and open the door, all the power is cut to the USB ports
I don’t know what their power consumption is but it’ll be way less than charging a phone
Well done. Very informative 👌
Nick that was useful thanks the sound was a bit choppy in this video. Could be me but I thought I would just mention it.
Hey Vin, oh? Really? I edit all of the videos myself and watch them back usually at least twice with headphones.
Where abouts did you hear this in the video? Could you let me know? I want to so sure that the quality of my videos is the best I can do
@@npoleary choppy all the way through probably my end sorry
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
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 - 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 👀
Thanks for the info……. This was were i was looking for …..
Ah no worries! 🤓
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.
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
Hi Nick can it be plugged into the usb in the arm rest area, I’m looking at getting a MagSafe and plugging the lead into the front area usb to charge the phone, great reviews on the EQA 👍🏻
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.
whats the point of having wireless android or apple car play if you still need to connect your phone to charge it !!?? Nick, you are a very nice guy , always willing to be helpful and I really appreciate that, so much so that I come here watch your movies very often, but in my opinion you need to be more objective, for instance, the other day I was looking for instructions how to use the adaptive cruise control, I had to give up and read the manual. Anyway: thanks a lot for all your effort and expertise 👍
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 👍🏼
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.
Hi Nick, just wondering if the adapter only work with connecting the port which is near the cupholder, if the ports in the armrest are working as well? If I put the adapter in the front, it will take the wireless charging space. Many thanks for you help.
It depends on the car’s port that actually does CarPlay. It has to be plugged into the normal Apple CarPlay USB port. Sadly the others won’t work
Thanks for another great video Nick. I have a GLE and when iPhone is connected by wire the nav info shows up in the centre window in the dashboard (basic direction arrow/next turn/current/next road name). My wireless Carlinkit 3.0 mini works well but doesn't pass the nav info to the centre dash. Did you happen to come across any wireless adapters that do this like wired CarPlay? Thank you !
Thank you! Ah no sadly not I hadn’t been keeping any eye out for that when testing them so not sure on that part.
Great vid as always.
I've bought the Motorola MA1 android auto wireless adaptor for my older CLA 66 plate and it is really good.
Thank you! 🙏🙏
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 🤓
My new AMG A35 has wireless charging and wireless CarPlay by default, no extra crap needed.
Yes the new facelift cars do support wireless built in 👍🏼
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 🤓
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'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! 🤓
Personally, I don’t quite get why the pass through charging matters in the way that, if you need to charge the phone you’ll have the wired CarPlay instantly.
Thanks! Sorry I should I explained more, it matters to me as I would love to use Wireless but when reviewing cars and making tutorials I will need to charge on the fly.
So wireless on normal days are great but filming the screen and producing videos in the car, perfect for plugging in
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!
I can't see the point of these if you don't have wireless charging, (which I don't).
Am I missing something here?
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 👍🏼
Thoughts on carlinkit 5.0?
Wired does have the best sound
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
Thanks for your efforts Nick. Just wanted to share to MB owners that my cplay2air was not fully compatible with my MB C63S AMG. Sometimes it would work- sometimes I would have a black screen and I would have to fiddle with it to get it up and running- thus unusable on the long term. The support proposed a FW update, which made things even worse. I tried to return it, but was told I have to send it to China and indicate a value of 5 usd (I paid 129 usd for it). As i was uncertain the unit would be reimbursed, I preferred not to incur an extra 30 usd shipping fee and now it’s sitting in a drawer taking dust. Not recommended for C-Class models and certainly others I don’t know about.
Thanks for sharing!
I had tested in a C-Class and it worked okay, wonder if it was for a particular year or something
@@npoleary As mentioned it would work at times- but not consistently. My AMG is a 2021 model. Cheers!
I agree cplay2air did work on my 2019 c-class but 8/10 it would give a black screen and then had to push home button and then top screen go to apple carplay. I got annoyed by this. So i bought the ottobox this works better, but still if you stop for gas and get back and start then it stops working. Also the ottobox bluetooth keeps working after the car is shutdown, but you phone still connects but the receiving end will hear a hard beeping noise. So its not perfect. Luckily i will upgrade to a c-class 23 soon :-)
Hello, would the dongle work if connected in the usb ports inside the arm rest? My 2021’ amg has a wired CarPlay port next to my cup holders and I’d prefer to have the dongle hidden inside the arm rest ports if possible.
Thank you!
@roneljusto8602 just replied to your other comment as well:
It has to be plugged into the same port of the car that accepts a wired connection. Some allow more than one port but you can try…if you plug your phone into the centre ports, if it works through CarPlay, then the adapter will work in there too. If it doesn’t then you’ll have to use the cup holder one.
Hi Nick, I just bought a ottocast u2 adapter for my glass, it works but should I see everything that is on my iPhone? Keep up the very useful videos. Alan 9:52
Oh nice!
You won’t be able to view every app on an iPhone though. Apple CarPlay is the same if it’s wired or wireless. These adapters just make wired to wireless