Carlinkit TBox Plus Review: Turn Your Car's Touchscreen Into a TABLET!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 เม.ย. 2023
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Review of the Carlinkit TBox Plus in my Kia EV6. This easily turns your vehicle's touchscreen into a full featured Android 13 tablet with 8 gb ram and 128 gb storage. You're able to watch videos, run apps like navigation, and even play games directly on the car's screen. I can watch TH-cam, Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, HBO Max, etc directly on the display and there is no lagging or any issues. It also adds wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay too, which is great. I'm also running apps like Car Scanner, ABRP, and Ohmmu directly on my Kia EV6's display. This is a new upgrade over the Tbox that I had previously, called the AI Box from One Car Stereo, and it's much less expensive at only $132 after my promo code. You get better performance for less price. I highly recommend it. Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for watching! 😃
⚠️ This is a link to the new Android 13 version which works very well and has some additional features over the Android 12 version.
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Topics Covered:
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#carlinkit #tbox #androidauto #applecarplay #aibox #android #carplay #wireless #cars #ev6 - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
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Thank you for the in depth review, one question. I’ve downloaded Nova Launcher, but carkit launcher still shows a bar on the left side. How did you remove it? Thanks in advance
To remove it you have to go into the factory settings using password 4545. Just be careful not to mess anything else up lol.
Hi. So I have an EV6. Guessing you know about the ICCU fuse issue some owners have. I’ve gotten the SW update that’s supposed resolve the ICCU issue. Confirmed the software version with car scanner. But wondering how much load TBox takes from the EV-6 12v battery. Is this something I should be concerned about?
Hey yep I've put out some info on the ICCU update. I don't know the exact amount, but the EV6 does power down the USB port after a few minutes (unless the car is charging) so it shouldn't draw much from the 12v.
Just purchased this using your code, thanks for this. Lunch in my car now will be infinitely better!
Nice! Yep I use it all the time during lunch breaks 😀
Great video Jeff, yet again. Since we are taking the EV6 on a 4000 mile trip next month, this device is updated and less expensive than your first one, you finally got me to buy into something other than music in the car. 😂 Having Car Scanner and ABRP on-screen is a plus. Since I’m an iPhone guy, I wonder how long it’ll take me to figure out Android. 😢
Thank you! Yeah the price is a big plus. I know the other one was fairly expensive. This is much less and has much better specs. It's pretty great. And yeah I know what you mean. I'm an android guy, so when I help people with their iPhones I have to relearn how to use it lol.
Fantastic, Jeff, thanks. I'm sold!
Happy to help!
You must have heard my thoughts while driving. I was just thinking about AA and purchasing a box. This is just what I wanted with the right price point. Thank you for this and putting in the work for the promo code. Ordering asap.
Oh nice! Yeah this is a great all in one solution. Happy to help!
@@TechnicallyJeff Jeff I have a 2011 Chrysler Town & country. It has the backupcamera screen. Any chance this is compatible with my factory deck?
Does it have Apple Carplay? If so, yes. If not, you'd need a new head unit.
Subbed! Love the vids your posting with your ev6. As I got one too and looking to enhance it lol.
Question though. I’m on the fence on this. Price looks good. I’m just curious about the boot up time. I noticed you can have it on apple CarPlay defaulted to start up when turning on car. How long do you think it takes compared to wired CarPlay starting up when plugging in the phone?
Thanks again for the vids. Now I just need to scrounge up enough money for that stealth hitch lol.
Thank you! Regarding boot up time, it takes around 45 seconds to load up. That time does stay from eden you unlock the car though since that's when the usb gets power. Generally by the time I get in, buckled, and start going, it's loaded the android interface. I don't use it for android auto or Carplay honestly. I just run the apps on the Tbox Plus directly.
Once again another great video that's resulted in me spending more money 😅
I plan to use this combined with the cars built in hotspot ($20/m unlimited data) and easy to activate using one of the programmable favorites buttons in the car!
Oh nice yeah that should work well!
This is really good. Its really unfortunate that they dont have features like this built into the infotainment system, BUT thank goodness for this. Im an Android guy as well, so this goes above and beyond what I want. Thanks for this. Will be getting one
Yeah I agree. I think this is where Android Automotive will be in a few years, fully Integrated in cars.
I love my EV6 , I enjoy your videos. Does this limit me because I use an IPhone 14 max pro to use this product? Please let me know?
I am sorry, I followed more and realise that it is compatible to Iphone IOS.
Yep works great with IOS
I’m sure it’s the regulation, no way they can’t do that these days
Ordered one, thanks for the nice video. Was $155 shipped, with your code. Seems it was an even newer version too. Android 13.
Awesome enjoy it!
Jeff, if I buy one more of these gadgets for my EV6, my wife is gonna leave me. Maybe, since I don't need them anymore, if I sell the Carsifi and the Motorola MA1 first, it'll soften the blow. Great review! I appreciate all the great content you make for us. Congratulations on passing 3k subs!
Haha luckily they aren't too expensive! You're right though. Selling the Carsifi and MA1 will soften the blow. Both of them new combined equal the cost of the Tbox Plus. And thanks so much I appreciate it!
Love the video. I got one of these a couple of months back and noticed that the favorites bar is gone on yours when using Nova launcher. How did you do that?
I removed it using the factory settings (not Nova) with password 4545. There's a setting in there. Just be careful not to mess other things up lol.
Thanks for this video Jeff.
Is there any difference in just using a cheap android phone instead of this box?
I'm not aware of a way to get the android system to display on the screen from a cheap phone. Cheap phones also don't typically have 8gb ram tbh.
Hey Jeff, did you ever do the follow up video on Nova laucher showing how you changed the TBox main screen. Thanks D
Hey Darren not yet. I'll have to do that soon.
Thanks for the great video review. Does it only work on the usb a port or can you connect it to the usb c port in the back?
If it's only connect to usb a port, will it still stay on while I'm charging the car at night?
Thanks!
Only the USB-A port in the EV6 is a data port. The others are only for charging. So you'd have to use the USB-A port. As for staying on, yes it will stay powered on while the car is charging if it's left plugged in. The EV6 only keeps power at the USB-A port when it's charging.
Great review!
I have a 23 Ioniq 5. The USB port seems like it stays powered on all the time.
Do you know if the TBox will power down on it's own after a timeout period? Otherwise, it seems like it would drain the 12V battery when the car is off.
Also, I see that there is a CarlinKit Max model. Do you know the difference between the Max and Plus?
Max and Plus are the same. Some companies market the Tbox Plus as the Max. The I5 should power down after a little bit like the EV6. Are you sure it stays powered?
Hey Jeff... The discount also works with the Android 13 model as well...
Yes it does! I actually will be testing that one out very soon 😉
Jeff thanks for in info on the early 2022 Kia EV 6 especially the battery preconditioning info. I’m interested in the video apple car play via usb a play so I can play videos (iphone13). Which version shouldn’t I consider and how do I make sure you get the commission from the sale as well as my discount. Thanks Duain
Happy to help! You want this one if you're in the USA. Be sure to use promo code TECHJEFF autokitcarplay.com/products/cpc200-tbox-plus-android-12-0-internet-ai-box-wireless-apple-carplay-android-auto?variant=43659731665123
Hi Jeff, thanks for the cool video. I purchased a Nature's Generator with code based on your review. I purchased a 2024 Ioniq 5 last month and bought a wireless AA dongle. Does this completely replace that or do they work together? Do videos work even in Drive (not that you're condoning it)? What's the drain on your phone like? Thanks!
I'm glad to help. Hope the Nature's Generator power transfer kit is working well for you. I actually just recently switched to a 12-circuit unit from them and I'll be sharing a review of that soon. Congrats on your Ioniq 5! Yes the Tbox Plus replaces the other dongle. It has wireless functionality built-in. I use it as a standalone device though with the apps on the Tbox Plus. Yes videos work in drive. And the battery drain on the phone is actually much less than using wireless Carplay/Android Auto. It's just using the bluetooth and hotspot from my phone and it lasts much longer.
Hi, looks great, any idea if it would work with cell phone network in NZ? Will they ship to New Zealand?
I think so. Check out the cellular bands for the carriers the and see if it has them. And yes I think so!
Great video. One question. Can this be paired with more than one phone? Occasionally, my wife drives my Ev6, and it would be nice to not have to disconnect the tbox and plug into her phone manually.
Yep it can be paired to more than one.
Great video Jeff. I will not be using sim card inserted into Tbox Plus, but want to connect 'wirelessly' to Hotspot on my iPhone for data.
Can I connect this at the same time Tbox Pus is connected to Wireless Carplay via 'Autokit' (bluetooth)
Thank you! That's how I use mine with my Samsung S23 Ultra. There is a new setting on the latest firmware that allows hotspot and wifi at the same time. To be honest though, 99% of the time I run apps on the Tbox Plus itself.
Great video! Just subscribed and used your discount code for my purchase! I'm a huge Nova Launcher fan too! Right now I have a data plan on my watch but I'll see if I can move it to my T-Box...
BTW - The Android 13 version, with your discount code is $188.59. That is still a great deal.
Awesome thank you! Yeah Nova is pretty great. And I actually have a new Android 13 one I'll be reviewing soon 😀 enjoy it!
@@TechnicallyJeff Hi Jeff just ordered mine with your discount code at 160$ ! thank you
Awesome - enjoy it!
Hi Jeff, do you know if this tbox is capable of display two different screens on 2 different monitors? Because i have one more roof monitor, so i just wonder if i can play netflix on the roof monitor and open up waze on the front monitor. 😅😅
That's a great question. I have no idea lol. I don't think so though. Usually the front screen is separate from the second one. If your roof one can mirror the front though, it should work.
thanks Jeff, really appreciate your feedback.. 😀
Happy to help!
Hi Jeff, are you using this device as your daily device, or the one you mentioned in the other conversation we were having?
I use the Carsifi for wireless Android Auto. It works especially well with multiple phones and my wife and I swap vehicles regularly and ride together regularly. I personally use this when I want to watch videos, run car scanner, etc.
Hey Jeff, I've been a bit confused, does the EV6 still not have wireless AA? It seems there were licensing issues supposedly, but the hardware is there from what I've read. An OTA update is supposed to be on the horizon but it's a lot of conflicting info. Is this still necessary as of Jan 24?
I bought a red 23 GT on Thursday, got a killer deal on it, so I've been watching your videos and commenting a few times. Bought the Nurzviy level 2, new version, and the BestEvMod mats based on your recommendations. Really appreciate your videos.
Unfortunately it does not have wireless AA still. There have been rumors about it coming, but nothing official. The only info I've seen is that ccNC is getting it and from Kia corporate, they've told me in the past they are working on it but that wired is best. And within the last few months they've just said they don't have any information to share about it coming.
Congrats on your GT! I'm glad my videos are helpful 😀
Jeff, does it play movies when driving the car? If so, have you run into any issues with video buffering because of connectivity?
Yes it does (but you shouldn't watch while you drive) and it depends on the speed of your hotspot. On my current plan (Verizon unlimited plus) I get 30gb at full speed and I've had no issues with buffering at all.
Hi, Jeff. What kind of ODB2 interface do you use? Is specific for electric cars or is a common one?
I use car scanner pro installed on the Tbox Plus and an OBD2 Bluetooth reader like this - amzn.to/46z8MLZ. It works great
Thank you for Tbox plus. Can it integrate with FitCamx DashCam so that the DashCam video can show on the car infotainment screen ?
That's a great question. I think it should. I'm going to have to test that!
I see on the sight they have a updated dashcam/Android 12 one coming out what is the comparison of the camera ones to this?
I haven't tested that but personally I'm a fan of this separate from the dash cam. I love the FITCAMX I just reviewed.
@TechnicallyJeff I got this a week ago and love it so far. One question I have for you - after the car (EV6) is turned off, how long does the tbox plus stay on before it turns off ? I am concerned about it draining the 12V battery. Thanks in advance.
Great I'm glad! The usb port in the EV6 stays powered for just a few min. If the car is charging though it stays powered so you may want to unplug it then.
@@TechnicallyJeff I am noticing it stays powered for longer than just a few minutes. Is there some "auto start" setting in the tbox plus that would do that ? wondering if you noticed anything while you were using it.
Hmm how long is it staying on? It isn't able to turn on the usb port in the car. The port should power down after 2-3 minutes. It will power bank up if you walk close to the car with the keys and the mirrors open. And if you check the car in the app.
Hi Jeff. Purchased one with your code and received it in less than a week in The Netherlands. Quick question, can you leave it in the car plugged or will that drain the 12v battery? I had previously the Motorola MA1 and left it plugged in all the time without any issues, but want to make sure with this one as well. Whats your thought on this?
Nice hope you enjoy it! It shouldn't be a problem. The USB port powers down after a few minutes in the EV6 unless the car is charging (or if you walk by it with keys in your pocket or check the app which awakens it for a short time).
Great video, Jeff. Especially like that you are seeing CarScanner II. As for Ohmmu.... did you get a the new version with Bluetooth capability, or is it working with your original Ohmmu?
Thanks Marc! I did get the new one with bluetooth. I'm actually giving away my previous Ohmmu battery that doesn't have the bluetooth since I only used it a few months.
thanks for the great vid, deffo gonna give this a go; I recently tried an ottocast U2-X Pro and I returned it the same day, it was pretty awful. this looks like it's a large step up from that thing!
Yeah? I haven't tried that one. What issues did it have?
@@TechnicallyJeff Firstly, it was advertised as new, but when I got it, it was still paired to some rando's iPhone. Next, it was SUPER slow - way slower than the ottobox carplay-only adapter I had been using before. Finally, it looked and performed terrible - super slow and the display quality was like 240p, lol.
Bonus round: no multi-touch, which is probably not the device's fault, but it was still a big deal breaker for me
Oh wow that's awful
Hey Jeff. Just found your channel as I’m looking to upgrade my car setup with a good wireless CarPlay adapter. As you know, lots to choose from. Big question for you is can I use Apple CarPlay (to use for gps like Waze and google maps) and watch media (with the android OS) with the split screen feature?
Also follow up question, is there any chance Apple would remove functionality of these adapters in the future or will these adapters lose some of their features in the future as well? Worried I would lose the Netflix, TH-cam, media apps feature
Good question. No unfortunately, if you want to use it for carplay, it takes over the entire screen. That said, I personally use Waze/Google maps split screen with media like netflix all the time. It just has those apps installed on the Tbox Plus and uses it's built-in gps. It works well.
I guess it's possible, but I don't think it could happen. It uses the Apple Carplay protocol. If apple were to change something significantly to remove the functionality, it would also impact iPhones.
Hi Jeff this is great but could you advise on one that has android 13?
I don't think there are any that are Android 13 available. Most are 9-11 actually. Android 12 is still fairly recent. Most Android tv devices run 12 or older for example.
Looking forward to the customization video. I just bought my Tbox and can see that it is a process to get everything right. Under "Launcher Style Type", is there a way to change the four shortcuts on "Style 2"? The icons there are not useful and would rather put a shortcut for the split screen Waze and MP3 player to make it look similar to Android Auto.
Hopefully soon. And I don't think so. I use the regular one with the presets. You can access the presets using "factory settings" using password 121212
How did you remove the default dock on left side? Fully detailed customization video would also be nice. I bought that box and nova launcher + kwgt in use and im learning. Its quite slow to make all customization on cars display.
I accidentally found a solution it seems, "factory settings" was something I didn't check since I thought its just a reset.
Yep factory settings password 4545. There's a lot you can do. For KWGT if you have an Android phone you could create everything on the phone then export the widget files and import them on the Tbox Plus.
I am sure I'll have more questions after I finish watching. 1st is did you connect to your home wifi or your phones hot spot to download the apps from the Play Store?
I used my home's wifi so I didn't use my hotspot data.
Duain again do I need the CPC200-Tbox Plus Android 12.0 Internet AI Box-Wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto model?
Hey you want this one for the USA - autokitcarplay.com/products/cpc200-tbox-plus-android-12-0-internet-ai-box-wireless-apple-carplay-android-auto?variant=43659731665123
2nd question is Android Auto connection wireless connection to your phone? I figure it would have to be to do phone calls, texts etc.
Yep it's wireless
Does google maps navigation/abrp/waze work while using in car navigation for battery preconditioning?
Yep that's one of the big benefits
Another great review, question if I may, does this device support w/l keyboards?
And I'm wondering if one could use an Apple TV box instead, so just wondering what kind of protocol does this device use to communicate with the car systems, as it seems to be a mix of apple and android?
Thanks! It should. It runs Android 12 which supports it. I don't think an Apple TV would work. It uses the Apple Carplay protocol to interface with the infotainment system. But it's fully Android 12. That said, it's compatible with Android and iPhones.
@@TechnicallyJeff Thanks for the answer, a follow up question, would it work on a TV using a usb-c to hdmi cable, 4K HDR maybe?
Hmm never thought to try that. It probably would. I don't have a USB-C to hdmi cable handy to test though.
@@TechnicallyJeff I should just order one..
It's definitely worth it in my opinion
Is there a way to use an external solid state hard drive with the CarlinKit as a source for videos and music?
Hey Wayne, I don't believe so. But you can use a Micro SD card which has pretty fast transfer speeds.
Hello Jeff. Car audio guy myself for yrs now. BUT, with video I need a bit of help here. Is this compatible with an after market floating panel stereo? And with the sim card, will Cricket Mobile sim card work with this? Plz and thanks of course!
Hey yes it should work as long as it has wired Carplay. And yes it should work as long as you can activate it. Sometimes depending on the carrier people have had issues with the carrier recognizing the device. Though an easy way to get around it is to use a different device IMEI.
Jeff, how does this play with my cars controls like temperature and others? I have Ford sync 4 and many car items are only on the large touch screen. I have buttons on the dash but all feedback is on the screen. Do these become visible automatically on top of the Tbox screens? Also, for nav on the Tbox, does it use the cars gps?Thanks.
Great questions. The vehicle sees the Tbox Plus essentially as Carplay. However it displays those items on the screen when Carplay is running is how it would display it with the Tbox Plus. As for navigation, the Tbox Plus has it's own built-in GPS.
Great Video Jeff, after much research on this product your vid convinced me to get one, I'm pretty happy with it for the most part, however I'm having one issue that I can't seem to resolve, don't know if you've come across it.
When using Spotify sometimes the audio is playing via the voice channel, not the audio chanel in the car. The output is poor quality via voice channel as you'd expect.
Any tips on what I'm doing wrong would be much appreciated from anyone.
TIA 🙏
It is pretty awesome. Yes, they have a fix built in for the audio playing over the voice channel instead of media. It's due to the system listening for the "hey Google". In the Tbox Plus settings, there's a navigation setup option. There you select your app you use for navigation and check that you want to disable the listening. That should fix it.
@@TechnicallyJeff where do you check you don't want it to listen? Don't see this check box.
I think it's in the assistant settings in the Google app
@@TechnicallyJeff OK so it's not a setting specific to the Tbox plus. Other question is where you put yours in the car. I have horrible signal in center console.
Right, it's in the Google assistant app on the Tbox Plus. I keep mine in the center console, but it doesn't need to get any signal there for me.
Hi Jeff, how does this device connect to Internet, through the MobileHotSpot on my Android Phone or in a different way?
You can do that. That's what I do. You can also get a SIM card and use it with a data plan.
Hi Jeff, Thanks for making this video. I was wondering if I install a SIM card in this unit would I still need to connect to a wifi network during the initial setup?
If you have a SIM card with data that's compatible, it shouldn't need a wifi network at all.
awesome...thanks@@TechnicallyJeff
Happy to help!
Hi. just a quick question regarding security. How safe is to log in with my google account to these devices. Did u use you primary device or used a secondary account due to security concern
I used my primary account. I don't think there's too much of a concern. You can see the apps running and disable them if you want.
This looks awesome. One question. Do I have to have a separate hotspot or will it just run data from my phone? Or can I use the hotspot from my iPhone 15 Pro? I have an IONIQ 6. Thanks!
Yeah it's great. You can use your phone's hotspot. That's what I do and it works perfectly.
Thanks for the quick reply. I just purchased with your discount code, you deserve a commision for the great video. I am also interested in the bluetooth OBD reader you spoke of. I need something to keep tabs on my 12V. Is there any particular one you recommend? @@TechnicallyJeff
Thank you! This is the one I recommend - amzn.to/4223ypY - it has great reviews and works with iphones and android.
Hello, because have you, I decided to buy this device, but I can't use 100% of the screen, TH-cam and Netflix cut the side margins, am I doing something wrong, is there any adjustment needed or is it just defined that way and it's not possible to use the entire screen? is that in this video your disney uses fullscreen, thanks for the help
It depends on the app and the video you're watching. Some apps are able to do the entire screen but if something is filmed in a 16:9 ratio the sides will be black.
What's the difference of Carlinkit 4 and the T box version? Is it that this works without needing a phone at all? I'm confused why it has 4G support.
Carlikit 4 is just an adapter to convert wired Android Auto and Apple Carplay to wireless. The Tbox Plus gives you an entire Android 12 operating system so you can have those features, plus watch videos, install apps, etc. And yes you don't need a phone. You can put a data SIM in it and use it for data. Or connect to wifi using it, like a hotspot.
Would you worry about someone breaking in and taking the box with access to accounts already signed in such as google, netflix, etc? I know you can sign them out but still a risk. Does it have a lock screen pin?
That's a good point. I haven't set a lock screen PIN but I'm sure one could be set. I'll check it out and get back to you.
Is there any delay between sound and picture during youtube/netflix? Thx
Maybe slightly, but not bad
In the video you said, "I'm going to connect it to the wi-fi and I'll be right back" - so, what did you do? I'm guessing there's a setting in the app that will try to connect to your phone's hotspot?
Yeah just like a phone you go to the wifi in the settings and type in the password. I just want going to show my wifi network.
Hi Jeff ,
I also saw your video of ottocast ,
there I see that you are able to adjust the size of the windows in the split mode by moving the slider ,
Now I wonder if it is able to do the same in carlinkit ?
Or carlinkit has the fixed windows 50/50 in size ?
For the Tbox Plus, you can't adjust the split screen ratio by moving the center slider, however you can adjust the ratio by going into the factory settings with password 4545, and changing it from 50/50 to 60/40 or 70/30.
Ohh thanks for the advice , I'm checking which one I'll buy ,
Thanks for your support !
No problem, I'm glad to help!
Jeff can you load prime videos from a computer to this onto the 128 card ?
I think you'd need to download them directly to this. I don't think it'd pull them up if downloaded from another device.
Hi Jeff, thanks for the great video. Can you advise what's the OBD scanner you used and how much is it?
Hey Eugene - I actually use a cheap one I got off Amazon several years ago. There are a lot on there. I personally recommend this one. It has great reviews, works with Android and iPhones, and is fairly inexpensive and should work well amzn.to/3BVPYIJ
@@TechnicallyJeff thank you Jeff
Happy to help!
Sorry if this has already been answered, but how does this work in the EV6 with the TBox and an iPhone connected? Can the car still take calls fine?
Yep it works great. It just connects to the phone via Bluetooth for calls.
Compatible w 2019 Lexus ES350 that has wired carplay, no android auto? I want to use an android phone.
Yes it connects using the wired Carplay protocol.
Last question. How do you deal with the EV6 always powered USB A ? Unplug the unit or does it have a sleep function?
The USB port sleeps automatically after a few minutes.
It goes to sleep after a few minutes unless the car is plugged in.
I am finding that to run Android apps I have to tether via wifi from my phone so that Android has an internet connection. On the other hand, for CarPlay I need to be connected to my phone with Bluetooth. I can’t switch between Android and CarPlay without turning the wifi connection on and off. And Bluetooth turns off if I turn on wifi. Won’t both systems provide internet access just using Bluetooth? Has me stymied, what am I doing wrong?
Bluetooth is only used for calls. For internet access, the Android system needs the hotspot (or LTE SIM card). For carplay, it connects to the phone using bluetooth and wifi (but the wifi is hidden usually). You can't have wifi connect and the hotspot going at the same time so it doesn't let them both work at the same time. Typically you'd need to choose one or the other. Some people get a data only SIM card for the Tbox so it has data too. I haven't tested that though.
Wait, im new to this is there an option so that you dont have to plug the item into thew car?
No this needs to be plugged in but you can connect your phone wirelessly to it.
Do you know of a way to adjust audio sync with this box ?
Hmm I don't think so. Is yours off?
is it possible to customize style 2 of default quickstep launcher?
Not that I can see
Hi Jeff, why in my device cannot enable enable dark theme? Any help? Thank you 🙏🏻😁
Hmm good question, I'm not sure. I'd try emailing Support@autokitcarplay.com
Hi jeff I recently bought the T-box mini 4gb/ 64 gb model running on android 11 everything is working great except the youtube videos i am unable to stretch youtube videos to make it appear full screen. Do you know how can i change aspect ratio of youtube videos to fit to screen. By the way i am using hundai i20 2022 asta optional mode which comes with 10 inch screen
Hmm I haven't tested the Android 11 version, but in the 12/13 version it won't go all the way full screen. It just gets larger but maintains the aspect ratio.
This looks amazing. I was just about to order when I asked myself a fair question: why in the world would I need Android apps on my car display? Apart from the fact that it's fun to have it, I can't seems to find another reason. I'd appreciate anyone commenting on what they use it for, having in mind that we all have phones with us...
It is pretty awesome. For the apps that you can't get with Android Auto and Carplay, I use the video apps (Netflix, disney plus, TH-cam, etc) regularly to watch movies and shows. I use the Ohmmu app to look at my battery. I use car scanner to keep track of vehicle info. You have access to basically all Android apps.
I assume this works for iPhone and Android. Can you pair multiple devices to it on the fly easily to maximize data usage from one source device to another?
Yep it works well with both. And yes you can have multiple paired to it. And for data usage, if you're using a hotspot, it's as simple as just changing the wifi network is connected to.
I see they have android 13 options available. I know nothing about android. Is there any reason to pick the 12 version over the 13 version ?
No, Android 13 should be better. I'm actually getting one in soon to test out but I'd get the Android 13 one.
Great video...I'm seriously considering this device. I will say I am left scratching my head on two things: 1) Using Carplay to present an Android device on the screen just seems weird to me. Why not use Android Auto? 2) I see they have an Android 13 version available now - do they not provide Android software updates when new versions come out - e.g. if you purchased the version with Android 12, would you get an OTA update to Android 13 at some point? Just curious.
Great questions. It's my understanding the carplay protocol is used because it's easier for programming and apparently some vehicles support wired carplay but not wired android auto, so it's compatible with more. It doesn't impact anything negatively though, it's just how it talks to the vehicle. Regarding Android 13, I know they recently enabled OTA updates with the Tbox Plus. From what I've found, you can manually update an Android 12 version to Android 13, but I'm not sure it will come OTA. Personally I'd just get the Android 13 version to avoid having to do an android version update. I actually just got the Android 13 version in to test out so I'll have a review on it soon. It should have similar functionality, but run smoother and be compatible with more apps, and potentially offer new features.
@@TechnicallyJeff - thanks for the explanation on CarPlay usage...makes sense. I am looking at the 13 version - was just wondering if I'd get 14 when it came out at some point (whether OTA, or I need to download and install it doesn't really matter - just was curious if I could get it). Thanks for the follow up!
I'm happy to help! Yeah since people with Android 12 and get 13, I assume 13 will get 14 eventually too. That said, Android 13 is pretty new and great to have in a device like this. A couple years ago, the newest was Android 9 lol.
I got a different brand one that works well but every few hours it will drop CarPlay. Do you use CarPlay/android auto a lot and does it disconnect? Does it take forever to connect to CarPlay?
Oh that sucks. I use Android Auto personally and it doesn't have any issues. Lots of people use it with Carplay too. And it fully loads the android operating system then connects to wireless AA or Carplay all in under a minute.
Awesome video! Just got around today to install mine.
Quick question: when I enter the AutoKit mode for Android Auto works fine, but when I go back to main interface the WiFi has been automatically turned off, so everything is offline until I manually switch WiFi back on... Is there a way to force the wifi to stay on? "Auto-Connect" doesn't do it
Thanks
Yeah it turns off wifi since the wifi is being used for the wireless Android Auto. I haven't played around with it a lot to try to keep it active when autokit is closed. I just swipe down from the top and use the quick setting toggle personally.
Got it thanks. So maybe I'll just deactivate AutoKit considering that the main UI gives me everything and more!
Thank you
Yep you could do that
Hi Jeff, do you know if downloader can be added?
What do you mean downloader? I have downloaded apks and installed them.
Almost pulled the trigger on this before trying our the MA-1 (returned it). The part that got me was having to provide it a data connection via hotspot or buy a SIM card and run another data line. Since it's my wife's EV6 she wouldn't want to deal with the hassle. If it were mine probably a different story 😂. Do you think hotspot or Sim card is a better option?
Personally hotspot since you can easily turn that on with the phone. I will say, for wireless Android Auto you don't need a hotspot or SIM, it just connects to your phone.
@@TechnicallyJeff hello my car doesn't have android auto/ car play will this still work with it????
Unfortunately no, you need wired Carplay for it to work. That's the protocol it uses to display everything on the screen.
@@TechnicallyJeffso AA just connects automatically to your phone via Bluetooth, without having to enable a hotspot? That's the killer feature I'm looking for.
Wireless AA connects using wifi after bluetooth (bluetooth doesn't have the required bandwidth), but it doesn't require you to connect to a hotspot manually. It all happens automatically on the backend.
Does it use your phone location for Google maps or does it work without phone?
It has its own GPS built in that it issues.
First off, thanks a ton for all your videos. I have purchased a lot of what you have featured. I am still playing with the tbox and it is not yet dialed in the way I would like to have it. A few questions. I noticed you have a Bluetooth OBDII adapter and it seems to work seamless. My current adapter is wireless and I have to switch the wireless connection on the tbox to have car scanner function, then switch it back to the hotspot on my phone to stream anything. The question is: Is there a why to have the car scanner app automatically detect the adapter and switch the wifi connection? If not I guess I will be buying a Bluetooth adapter. Also do you leave the OBDII adapter plugged in all the time? Also I am getting a password error message when trying to connect to Netflix. Did you experience this at all? Any suggestions short of trying to change the password. Thanks again
I'm glad to help! Regarding the obd2 adapter, I honestly have only ever used a Bluetooth adapter so I'm not sure about the wifi functionality. I usually recommend this one - amzn.to/4a5MTVu - it works with Android and iOS and has good reviews. Regarding Netflix, I honestly haven't had that issue. If it's saying password error, usually that's just an incorrect password, not a network issue. You sure it's right? Lol
@@TechnicallyJeff Thanks for taking the time to respond -appreciate the help
Of course, I'm happy to help in any way I can
I've been searching for a demo of this using an Android phone on the new large Kia infotainment system! Do you find it to be a hassle disconnecting/connecting the hotspot everytime you want to use android auto or go back to regular android interface? In the past I used a Bixby routine to automatically turn on my hotspot when my car connected to the Bluetooth. I wonder if there's some widget that can be put on the launcher before switching back to android auto that would turn off the hotspot.
Personally it's not a hassle since it's pretty easy to turn it on and off using the quick settings. That's just me though. I'm sure there's an easy widget that can be added though too.
I am using the app Macrodroid for turning on and off the wifi hotspot when it connections via bluetooth. Works like a charm
That's awesome
An update video with maybe how you use it on the daily would be great. Still on the fence on this and seeing if I want to just use this as my default system or not as an Apple user I cringe at the fact. 😬
Yeah I'll probably do that soon. Honestly I use Carsifi daily for wireless Android Auto because my wife and I swap vehicles regularly and it's very easy to switch with that. But this has wireless Android Auto and Carplay built in so it works well for that too. And if you want to watch videos or use other apps there's that aspect too.
Just installed this in my EV6. It works great so far.
Just one question; I can't find where to update the apps or software in the settings?
Great! For apps, you update them in the play store. You tap on your profile icon then tap manage apps.
@@TechnicallyJeff Is there also a way to update the box itself? Thanks
You can get firmware updates directly from Carlinkit. www.carlinkit.com/download/a12.html
If you leave it plugged into the car while you're not in it, does it continue to run or shut off? My concern is it draining the battery? I think the USB port stays live while the car is turned off.
It depends on the vehicle. If the usb port stays powered up it will stay on. Most cars like my EV6 powers down the usb port within a few minutes of shutting the car off, if not right away.
So you've had this for a little while. What do for use for internet for this device?
I use my phone's hotspot on the go. I download at home on wifi though.
What if your car doesnt come with androidauto/apple but still has a screen? Will this still work?
It only works if the vehicle has wired carplay since it uses that protocol to display everything on the touchscreen.
Man My car does have mirror Link only no carplay no android Auto which device can help to run android Auto on my car?
Unfortunately I think you'd need to get a different head unit. I don't think you can get Android Auto over MirrorLink alone
Can I play MP3 from the sd card and still use Autokit at the same time ?
I don't think so. Using autokit turns it into a wireless android auto / carplay adapter and the other functions of the tbox aren't active at the same time.
How long is shipping time? Ordered one after seeing you video. Only thing left is connecting a controller and playing Call of Duty mobile while charging.
The split screen is also amazing. Having navigation on one side and Plex on the other side.
Oh that'd be cool to test out. Took me around 2 weeks to get it
@@TechnicallyJeff Mine got shipped yesterday. Let's see when I receive it. Currently ownig a NIRO PHEV MY21, getting my Ionoq 5 MY23 the 29th of May.
Shouldn't take too long. That's cool though. I had a Niro EV before my EV6. Nice vehicles, but you're going to love your Ioniq 5 comparatively.
@@TechnicallyJeff Just got it. What an amazing thing. Ordered two more with your code for my colleague’s.
Video of Call of Duty mobile on my channel!
Sweet! I'll check it out
Did you buy from the autokit store? If so, how long did it take for your order to get delivered? Just purchased using your code!
Yeah I did. It was about a week or so.
FWIW I placed my order from the autokitcarplay store on 4/10, it shipped on 4/11, and it showed up at my home in California on 4/20. Product ships from China.
Nice shipping speed
Hi jeff ... great video .. i have a single usb port and i tried connecting my music flash drive along with the device with a hub .. and the device doesn't connect , but this works when i wire the phone normally .. any ideas??
Hmm I'm not sure if this is compatible with a USB hub. I personally haven't tested that. That said, this device has a lot of storage and a micro SD slot. You could move the music over to it directly.
Might not be enough power when splitting one port between devices. Try removing the hub and plug the device into the usb port.
Yeah possibly
@Technically Jeff - with the device and the ability to see battery SoC and temp, wondering if you could do a piece on battery preconditioning. One thing I’m interested about the TBox is if the car can “see” when you’re using a navigation app such as Google Maps or Waze. With a standard CarPlay connection, if you use Waze, it turns the local Nav off which means battery preconditioning kicks out. Looking for a trick to have Waze and battery preconditioning! Great channel - thanks for all the helpful content.
I will do a video on that, but you CAN run waze on the Tbox Plus and the car's built-in navigation for battery preconditioning. It works great 😀
@@TechnicallyJeff Jeff, If you run the car's built-in navigation and Waze at the same time, do you hear two sets of navigation voices? I'm wondering how this works. The main (and probably only) reason I'd buy this is to use better navigation while allowing the battery preconditioning to function. I'd love to see a video about how this can be done.
Hmm I honestly never have audible directions turned on so I'm not sure about that actually lol. I'll have to test it.
@@TechnicallyJeff Thank you for the reply
Of course
Can you connect a remote control to this device?
Yep it can connect via Bluetooth
Hi, watched a few videso of yours. So I have a 2016 VW Golf MK7, it has wired AA & CP, can I use this box on it and download apps etc. Also will the screen size be adjusted natively to the size of my display?
Yep it works if you have wired Carplay. And yes it automatically adjusts to match the size.
Have you been able to figure out how to get videos to fill the widescreen on your EV6? I have a 2023 Sportage and it has the same screen. It would be nice to get the video to fill more of the screen. Thanks
It depends on the source. A lot of videos on Netflix and Disney Plus are ultrawide and will the entire screen. Most are 16:9 though which doesn't fill the entire screen.
Thanks for that info. Look forward to trying it out once it makes its way from China
Enjoy it!
Is there a way to use the car's navigation and to watch videos?
If your car let's you do split screen with Apple Carplay and navigation, yes. In my Kia EV6, if I enabled split screen, Carplay would run on the left (this device uses the Carplay protocol to display on the vehicle screen) and the split sceen would run on the right and I could have the navigation there.
how do you make full screen
In the EV6 there's a setting in the infotainment system under phone projection settings for split screen. You want to disable that.
When i add an widgets on the nova launcher after the car restarts all the widgets disappear
Yeah? Is Nova set as the default? I haven't had anything disappear.
Hey Jeff, couple quick questions for you. 1. How do you get the sidebar to go away when using Nova Launcher? 2. I prefer Tidal for music but once I start playing a song in the app I can't get out of the current song screen, seems the collapse icon button doesn't work in some cases, have you encountered this?
Hey I actually disabled it in the factory settings using code 4545. For the song, if you hit the home button it doesn't close it?
@@TechnicallyJeff Thanks for the quick response! Regarding question 2 the home button works fine for taking me to the apps homepage, I just mean I get stuck on a single screen within the app and can't seem to get out for some reason, only seeing it happen in Tidal unfortunately
Oh gotcha. Might have something to do with the screen resolution. One thing I do is enable and go into developer settings and set the min-width to at least 700. That helps apps be compatible and show everything they're supposed to. Right now it's set for 960px which makes things a little smaller, but fits everything better.
@@TechnicallyJeff Thanks so much for the min-width tip, that got everything working!! What is the password to get access to the factory settings?
Nevermind my last question, realized the code you said earlier is the one I needed. Thanks for being so responsive/helpful!
What format does the memory card have to be formatted in to use with TV shows? The Android 13 settings don't have resolution and a few other options you have in 12. Do you use vlc for playback of files stored on the memory card or do you use Kodi?
Mine is just exFAT and works fine. The resolution matches the resolution of the vehicle display. Yu can adjust the general zoom and can adjust the min-width in developer options. I personally only use the memory card to download and watch movies and shows from apps directly, like Netflix and Disney Plus.
@@TechnicallyJeff oh yes! I completely forgot about developer options! Thank you! Did u format on a computer and then use in the box or does the box have a format option? Will try some tweaks and options with aspect ratio for full screen tomorrow. Thanks again Jeff! Really appreciate your prompt responses and help!
@@devlalvani9662 I used a memory card I already had formatted on a pc before. But yeah in developer options you can change some stuff. I have my min-width at 700 px I believe. It's a good balance. And I'm glad to help!
Okay just my own clarity for my EV9 - 1) so do you bypass the cars AA phone projection and use this instead bc this gives you more apps? And 2) for AA, I think I understood you to say that you don't need to hotspot which is great aince my phone is unlimited data but for hotspot its limited.
I use this for more apps and for video streaming. And for AA, yes you don't need a hotspot since it connects directly to your phone and is just mirroring it basically.
@TechnicallyJeff such a shame the EV9 comes with wireless AA and we still need to get a dongle to get to what it should be!
Yeah a lot of these apps are not allowed with Carplay and Android Auto
Your car screen size alone 🤜
Yeah I love the widescreen 👍
Thanks for the review. I ordered the 8/128 for Canada with your discount code. Now if we could just get a method to clean the rear camera . I used the3D printed brush clip-on which attached to the wiper arm for the Niro EV.
Nice! Happy to help!