[Q] "WD8801" 2DIN Android 4.04 Car Head Unit with Quad-Core 1.7GHz - Android Head-Units

Hi All,
I have been a big follower of the forum for some years now and the forum has been a life saver several times now! but this is my first posting
I am interested in this new Chinese car head unit and wanted to get feedback and opinion from others on it (if any has already tried it)
Here are the specifications:
Model Number: WD8801
Resolution:1024*600
Digital Media Format: CD,DVD-RAM,Video CD,Mp3,Mp4,WMA,JPEG
CPU: Samsung Exynos 4412 Quad-Core 1.7GHz frequency X 4
Operating system: Pure Android 4.04
RAM: DDR3 2G
Screen Size: 8.0 inch HD LED screen
Screen resolution: 1024 x 600/16:9
Net WiFi: built-in IEEE 802.11b/g/n
Touch screen: Capacitive touch screen
On paper the specifications look very good, but I guess the question is how good is it in reality and if it can be rooted?
Here are some pictures and more detailed specs:

The specs look OK, except that horribly low res screen.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk

Hidden Username said:
The specs look OK, except that horribly low res screen.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would probably agree with you if it was not for the fact that this is an in-car system and the res is above and beyond anything else on available, the Max on offer is 800*480!

saidak said:
I am interested in this new Chinese car head unit and wanted to get feedback and opinion from others on it (if any has already tried it)
Here are the specifications: CPU: Samsung Exynos 4412 Quad-Core 1.7GHz frequency X 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if that is the true specifications. AnTuTu incorrectly recognized an Mstar786 processor as an Exynos 4412 as sited by @KID52 in Post #906 in the AN-21U thread. I think the biggest problem is that CPU identification in Android is not that straight forward. And when a new Android CPU variant is introduced into the market, manual forensics needs to be performed. That's why most Android CPU identification apps have a reporting mechanisms when CPU appears to be misidentified.
One of the problems I have been experiencing is that the Chinese manufacturers are mixing up the different faceplates designs for these units. That's why I'm always pointing out that it is very difficult to identify the model just by looks. In order to know exactly what you're going to get, the specs need to be verified with the reseller. The way I've been differentiating the various Chinese Android head units is by the exact processor included. This allows me to direct them to the correct thread.
Freescale i.MX535 (imx53_smd) 1Ghz Cortex A8 Single Core processors are usually found units in the Ouku thread.
Samsung S5PV210 (smdkv210) 1Ghz Cortex A8 Single Core processor are found in the units in the S100/S150 thread.
Allwinner A10 (sun4i) 1Ghz Cortex A8 Single Core processor in the units found in the TVBOX thread.
Mstar MST786 (cedric) 1.0 to 1.2 Ghz Cortex A9 Dual Core processor are found in the units of the AN-21 thread.
This is important because each version has their own quirks. So, if anyone decides to get one please let us know and we'll add this version to the XDA Wiki for the Generic Android Headunits if it is actually different than the other four models.
saidak said:
On paper the specifications look very good, but I guess the question is how good is it in reality
Here are some pictures and more detailed specs:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One thing about the pics that you attached, is that the head unit was meant for VW / Skoda openings. If you don't actually have those kinds of vehices, then you might consider the Universal version of this unit. I found a few other variants on AliExpress if you're interested in vehicle specific models then search for Exynos 4412 car.
The one thing I find most disappointing in these generic Chinese head units is that bluetooth module sits on a logic board that is controlled by a MPU. This often causes specific features to not be handled by Android but by the MPU. In most cases, Bluetooth pairing is often limited to phone and music because Android does not have direct access to it. For example, if you want to use a ODB2 adapter then you'll have to get a USB ODB2 adapter. Although they have a faster throughput and don't use any power while the car is off, it may be inconvenient to some vehicles due to routing the cabling.
The only company I've seen so far to get this right is Parrot with the Asteroid Smart / Tablet. They use a custom CK5050 Bluetooth module to provide access to Android, while still being able to allow the head unit to be used as a pseudo headset with microphone. Although, I supposed with Audi working with Google and the new Open Automotive Alliance that we might see a more cohesive head units in the near future.
saidak said:
and if it can be rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this truly is a new model then that is unknown. Until someone can get their hands on it to try the various techniques of accessing root, nobody cannot say for sure. It might be as locked down as the Kenwood DNN990HD which may need a hardware approach to gaining root.

I've looked thru the various ads for the generic version of this unit, but I can't figure out where the SD and DVD slots are. Does the screen fold down? The car specific models have visible slots.
I find it interesting that the ads,Shenzhen City Wocraft Electronic Co.,Ltd ad , state it can handle 64gb SD cards and 1tb hard disks. This would appear to put it in a new class of head unit, as would the Ublox GPS unit, the built in wifi card vs a dongle., and the 2gb of ram.
I noticed one screen shot that shows Bluetooth under Google settings. I don't recall seeing that in screen shots for the AN-21 unit. But I also noticed that it has a Bluetooth app similar to the AN-21 units. I wonder if a Bluetooth dongle would work on the Android side on this unit?
Jon

jonalowe said:
I've looked thru the various ads for the generic version of this unit, but I can't figure out where the SD and DVD slots are. Does the screen fold down? The car specific models have visible slots.
I find it interesting that the ads,Shenzhen City Wocraft Electronic Co.,Ltd ad , state it can handle 64gb SD cards and 1tb hard disks. This would appear to put it in a new class of head unit, as would the Ublox GPS unit, the built in wifi card vs a dongle., and the 2gb of ram.
I noticed one screen shot that shows Bluetooth under Google settings. I don't recall seeing that in screen shots for the AN-21 unit. But I also noticed that it has a Bluetooth app similar to the AN-21 units. I wonder if a Bluetooth dongle would work on the Android side on this unit?
Jon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, by the look of those pictures, it looks like that particular model doesn't come with a DVD (The usual "remove screws before using" sticker and screws are missing and it seems kinda hollow under those holes the specs might be the usual "chinese copy/paste.
Might as well not have one, I'd easily give it up for a slightly bigger screen, really don't see the point having a Disc player when you can have 1Tb hard drive hooked up...

jonalowe said:
I've looked thru the various ads for the generic version of this unit, but I can't figure out where the SD and DVD slots are. Does the screen fold down? The car specific models have visible slots.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good question about the DVD player on the "Universal" version. There are no visible markings that would indicate that the screen folds down though. Perhaps this is actually a DVD-less version that allows for the larger 7" screen.
As for the SD Slot, I believe it is in the lower left hand corner beneath the door that has the SD and the USB logo embossed on it.
jonalowe said:
I find it interesting that the ads,Shenzhen City Wocraft Electronic Co.,Ltd ad , state it can handle 64gb SD cards and 1tb hard disks. This would appear to put it in a new class of head unit, as would the Ublox GPS unit, the built in wifi card vs a dongle., and the 2gb of ram.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, it depends on their translation of "supporting" 64GB SD cards. The other units can also support higher than 32GB SD Cards as long as the partition type is not exFat. The exFat partition is a proprietary, licensed property of Microsoft. So, anyone using it must pay a royalty fee to them. Most of these Chinese manufacturers avoid it by stating compatibility with up to 32GB or (micro) SDHC because they come with FAT32 partitions. Whereas the >32GB cards or (micro) SDXC cards come with the exFat partition as a defacto standard.
As for the 1 TB drive, again any of the other units can support that it as well. The Linux vfat drivers can support partition sizes up to two terabytes and file sizes up to two gigabytes. The only question about the handling external drives is whether or not the rails for the USB bus can handle necessary electrical requirements. Most people use a powered USB hub to avoid sapping the logic board altogether.
jonalowe said:
I noticed one screen shot that shows Bluetooth under Google settings. I don't recall seeing that in screen shots for the AN-21 unit. But I also noticed that it has a Bluetooth app similar to the AN-21 units. I wonder if a Bluetooth dongle would work on the Android side on this unit?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good eye.
Though in all the screenshots I saw they were toggled "off". With the right software in place you can get the other units to also show that switch as well but trying to toggle it without an actual connection to a Bluetooth module will only allow the switch to toggle on for a few seconds until it is able to verify that it cannot communicate with it. So, I am not convinced that other BT devices are supported by the screenshots shown. The description of the item does not give the impression anything other than "phone & music" capabilities are supported.
Bluetooth
Telephone book Hands free for all and answer,Call recorder for dialed.answered,not answered,Support bluetooth music play
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Thanks. I missed the embossed SD and USB symbols.
Jon
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

jonalowe said:
Thanks. I missed the embossed SD and USB symbols.
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Click to collapse
Sure, no problem. Although, in retrospect this seems very similar to one of the units that I mentioned back in Post #1278 of the AN-21U thread.
donaldta said:
I did notice Alibaba has another reseller, "Shenzhen Sion Electronics Co", that has a unique Android 4.1 unit without a DVD player, a 7" IPS Sceen and has a volume control knob. But, I don't recognize the launcher on the unit and cannot say for sure it is a which head unit variant it belongs to. Though it is interesting because IPS displays are much better than than the usual TFT you find in these head units.
[url=http://szsion.en.alibaba.com/featureproductlist.html]Shenzhen Sion Electronics Co[/url] said:
Android 4.1 without DVD loader with
capacitive touchscreen for Universal Car Pad
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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Click to collapse
Although, on that page it boosts certain specifications which are a little better. But, identifies the unit as being without a DVD drive.

I sent the seller a question about the DVD slot. We'll see what he says.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

saidak said:
Hi All,
Screen Size: 8.0 inch HD LED screen
Screen resolution: 1024 x 600/16:9
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
donaldta said:
Sure, no problem. Although, in retrospect this seems very similar to one of the units that I mentioned back in Post #1278 of the AN-21U thread.
Although, on that page it boosts certain specifications which are a little better. But, identifies the unit as being without a DVD drive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jonalowe said:
I sent the seller a question about the DVD slot. We'll see what he says.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I'm guessing that the 7/8 inch HD LED screen is not IPS. LED is definitely an upgrade from TFT if that counts. I really would like to know more about these; I'm actually interested now.

donaldta said:
Good question about the DVD player on the "Universal" version. There are no visible markings that would indicate that the screen folds down though. Perhaps this is actually a DVD-less version that allows for the larger 7" screen.
As for the SD Slot, I believe it is in the lower left hand corner beneath the door that has the SD and the USB logo embossed on it.
Well, it depends on their translation of "supporting" 64GB SD cards. The other units can also support higher than 32GB SD Cards as long as the partition type is not exFat. The exFat partition is a proprietary, licensed property of Microsoft. So, anyone using it must pay a royalty fee to them. Most of these Chinese manufacturers avoid it by stating compatibility with up to 32GB or (micro) SDHC because they come with FAT32 partitions. Whereas the >32GB cards or (micro) SDXC cards come with the exFat partition as a defacto standard.
As for the 1 TB drive, again any of the other units can support that it as well. The Linux vfat drivers can support partition sizes up to two terabytes and file sizes up to two gigabytes. The only question about the handling external drives is whether or not the rails for the USB bus can handle necessary electrical requirements. Most people use a powered USB hub to avoid sapping the logic board altogether.
Good eye.
Though in all the screenshots I saw they were toggled "off". With the right software in place you can get the other units to also show that switch as well but trying to toggle it without an actual connection to a Bluetooth module will only allow the switch to toggle on for a few seconds until it is able to verify that it cannot communicate with it. So, I am not convinced that other BT devices are supported by the screenshots shown. The description of the item does not give the impression anything other than "phone & music" capabilities are supported.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think bluetooth is the same as the AN-21 U. Antutu screenshots show bluetooth as "unknown bluetooth settings", therefore not controlled by Android.

There are three stores on Aliexpress that sell this type, I was looking at the one from "Shenzhen SunWay Electronics Technology Co." it does not have a 2DIN Type, here is the link, unfortunately I am unable to give direct link but here is the store (just add www) .aliexpress.com/store/409069
The second from SheZhen li ying Electronic Technology Co., Lt., store # 221255 and the third is from Hlink Global sources, store # 716401
All the ones (except 2DIN) do show a DVD slot
Edit: I just found a seller on another form trying to sell those units (1st post) but unfortunately the discussion changed direction
golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=163544

wtftuck said:
So I'm guessing that the 7/8 inch HD LED screen is not IPS. LED is definitely an upgrade from TFT if that counts. I really would like to know more about these; I'm actually interested now.
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Click to collapse
There is actually no such thing as a "LED screen". At least nothing no one that's smaller than a few feet. They're usually used in billboards, stadiums and other large public areas where moving pictures are required. If you're referring to kind of "LED TV" that a lot of dumbsumers talk about in regards the consumer electronics. That is actually the technology of the LED backlighting which minimize light bleeding in dark areas of the screen.
---------- Post added at 06:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:10 PM ----------
saidak said:
There are three stores on Aliexpress that sell this type, I was looking at the one from "Shenzhen SunWay Electronics Technology Co." it does not have a 2DIN Type, here is the link, unfortunately I am unable to give direct link but here is the store (just add www) .aliexpress.com/store/409069
The second from SheZhen li ying Electronic Technology Co., Lt., store # 221255 and the third is from Hlink Global sources, store # 716401
All the ones (except 2DIN) do show a DVD slot
Edit: I just found a seller on another form trying to sell those units (1st post) but unfortunately the discussion changed direction
golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=163544
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think you understand what "2DIN" means. The double din specification describes the space that the radio requires in order to fit into cavernous area behind the radio. It has nothing to do with faceplate or console area that you interact with. For example, all of the VW / Skoda units like the one that you linked to earlier are double din units with an oversized face panel which fit console area of the vehicle specific dash. This is important to understand, as some vehicles like the certain BMW vehicles only have a single din opening yet support a larger front panel similar in size of a double din unit, like the one below.
The "Universal" models, like the one I linked above, usually don't have excess paneling and matches the size of the actual unit. This is to allow you to use a third-party dash kits over the unit.

donaldta said:
There is actually no such thing as a "LED screen". At least nothing no one that's smaller than a few feet. They're usually used in billboards, stadiums and other large public areas where moving pictures are required. If you're referring to kind of "LED TV" that a lot of dumbsumers talk about in regards the consumer electronics. That is actually the technology of the LED backlighting which minimize light bleeding in dark areas of the screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't have to 'dumb things down'. I know what the differences between the two.
I was only asking because of how the two headunits that were described.
One was described as such:
7inch HD 1024X600 IPS display
Doesn't mention LED or TFT [backlighting] (added so you don't freak out again)
The other:
7inch HD 1024 x 600 LED screen
Doesn't mention IPS but does mention LED.

wtftuck said:
You don't have to 'dumb things down'. I know what the differences between the two. I was only asking because of how the two headunits that were described.
One was described as such:
7inch HD 1024X600 IPS display
Doesn't mention LED or TFT [backlighting] (added so you don't freak out again)
The other:
7inch HD 1024 x 600 LED screen
Doesn't mention IPS but does mention LED.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My apologies. I didn't realize you were asking a question. I thought you were making a statement. One of the problems in my opinion is the translated Engrish and the unknowledgeable resellers that post them.

jonalowe said:
I sent the seller a question about the DVD slot. We'll see what he says.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Here's the answer I got back:
"Frank Wang: Dear Sir,
This is high level car pc, all are with no CD slot.
You can put the file in the android system and see it by player,
Or, put it U disk to store the film and see..
What is your car model,need see car central area photo with outer size,length,width,,,
Thanks/Frank "
So no DVD/CD slot in the universal version. Appears to be an add on in the car specific versions.
Jon

Does anyone own this ?
One of the most important features would be anti glare.
I am talking about being possible to read even under rear vehicle lights, or in the case someone owns a convertivle, under exposure of the sun?!

jonalowe said:
So no DVD/CD slot in the universal version. Appears to be an add on in the car specific versions.
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Click to collapse
Yeah, I figured as much. It wouldn't be much of a concern for me anyways. DVD is a dying technology and their movies can be stored in the SD Card or USB Drive. Besides, I haven't had much luck with them in the hot Texas sun something usually ends up dying or gets stuck.
Although, it is a shame that they continue to use the "full depth" form factor even without the DVD drive. It would be more "universal" if they would have reduced the required depth. I know a few cars, like some old model Datsuns, which have a really shallow install depth that could fit a double din unit like the Parrot Asteroid Smart but not this one.

saidak said:
There are three stores on Aliexpress that sell this type, I was looking at the one from "Shenzhen SunWay Electronics Technology Co." it does not have a 2DIN Type, here is the link, unfortunately I am unable to give direct link but here is the store (just add www) .aliexpress.com/store/409069
The second from SheZhen li ying Electronic Technology Co., Lt., store # 221255 and the third is from Hlink Global sources, store # 716401
All the ones (except 2DIN) do show a DVD slot
Edit: I just found a seller on another form trying to sell those units (1st post) but unfortunately the discussion changed direction
golfmkv.com/forums/showthread.php?t=163544
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read the forum fast but I could spot that the guys there suspect that the user selling these units, i.e. "semting", is the same as "vwcars". They claim the guy left them down without support after a while. They also claim he might have copied the software from Audiosources.
Take home message:
Before buying this unit, make sure it is not a scam.

Related

Advice needed on an Android HU.. So what exactly can I DO with an Android HU?

I currently have a lower end Windows CE 6 Chinese head unit. Im pretty sure it runs on a 400 or 600 mb cpu, several years old, slow and laggy at times and very UNmoddifiable.
I have been tweaking my andoid phones for YEARS and i think an android head unit may just be the perfect fit.
Here's the unit im looking at:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0..._m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0SH028Y7K2WX3TYN9R17
YINUO QUAD CORE 16GB 1024*600 Android 4.4.4 7" Car DVD Player GPS Stereo with Capacitive Digital Screen In Dash Navigation Receiver support GPS/iPhone/DVD/AM FM Radio/Steering Wheel Control/Bluetooth/Built-in Wifi Hotspots/3G/OBD2/DVR/AV-IN with Free External Mic &8GB Map Card as gift
by YINUO
Sold by AUTOTOP and Fulfilled by Amazon. Gift-wrap available.
Want it Monday, Aug. 24? Order within 12 hrs 11 mins and choose Two-Day Shipping at checkout. Details
3. EASY-GO DEVICE: with these devices, your car life will be cozy and handy, i.e. you will find it easier to get to a new or complex place by 2D/3D GPS navigator and voice guidance(GPS map pre-loaded at a free 8GB map card); hands-free calling or browsing contacts will come in handy by built-in bluetooth; further more, it must be amazing to hold useful operations like phone call, music, wifi, bluetooth, EQ all in hand by steering wheel control.
1. SYSTEM & SCREEN: Unlike other stereo, our unit's CPU is upgrated from dual core to Quad Core, along with Samsung DDR3 1GB RAM, you can enjoy a much more smoother running of 3D/3D map, game or video. 8GB flash memory is also upgraded to 16GB for a much more enjoyable experience of gaming, video-watching & app-downloading. The Double din car stereo is loaded with latest Android Kitkat, which is as easy to pick up as Android phone.; And you'll be fully immersed by high fidelity image&video with digital screen. Digital screen delivers accurate color & rich crisp content which can be seen from 175 degree. It is sunlight readable TFT-LCD screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive poked around on here and havent found anything about this particular HU.
Any experience with similar units and any advice is much appreciated!
Is the price ($500) a good deal for the quality ond hardware of this unit?
Will i be able to use ROM's on here to update the sofware?
What can be done to this unit to get a better experience?
Thanks for any advice!
IMO Chinese HUs are like most Chinese products directly sold from China. Full of compromises and "gotchas".
But this is fine for MANY people, so don't let me dissuade you (too much).
There are 2 most popular "families" of Chinese HUs, sold by different vendors and with sometimes small changes.
Newsmy is the most recent and what I'd likely get if I was to buy one: http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...4-4-2-kitkat-head-unit-newsmy-carpad-t2865525
HuiFei is the older one: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2660662
Note that they both run Android 4.4 Kitkat at best. I think it's very unlikely either will be updated to Lollipop.
You can get some of these for as little as $300.
Thanks Mike.
I had read through some of that second thread you posted and that's kind of what got me wondering if the one I'm looking at is the same thing, repackaged into oem plastic.
All the specs are identical, both radios on allied express, (along with tons of the same spec radios in different oem models).
It got me wondering if mine (that I'm considering) would work with the roms available to the hui fei.
For all I know it's the exact same, just maybe different mcu for the buttons? (Is that how it works?)
bigd2442 said:
Thanks Mike.
I had read through some of that second thread you posted and that's kind of what got me wondering if the one I'm looking at is the same thing, repackaged into oem plastic.
All the specs are identical, both radios on allied express, (along with tons of the same spec radios in different oem models).
It got me wondering if mine (that I'm considering) would work with the roms available to the hui fei.
For all I know it's the exact same, just maybe different mcu for the buttons? (Is that how it works?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It should works with the roms here in XDA, my'n is Eonon and I'm using HuiFei roms and everything is great.
you just need to know what chip you have and as far as I know there is only two ( RK3188 & RK3066 ) and also know your screen size.
if you want to update the MCU ( communication control like Radio, AVIN, Sound etc) you need to know the MCU type like ( KLD .. etc)
which I don't recommended unless you have communication problems.
by the way your HU specification is very good ( Quad Core + Ram 1).
Thanks again for the help! Got it installed yesterday.
It's a KLD for whatever that matters. Very happy with it so far... Can't wait to play with it some more and start tweaking it to my needs.
How do you guys find wiring harnesses for these to plug into the OEM harness?
Grims said:
How do you guys find wiring harnesses for these to plug into the OEM harness?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine was made only for my vehicle, so the harness came with the unit.
But what you can do with a radio that is universal, is get a harness from ebay/amazon etc. for your specific type car. Metra and Scosche are 2 of the larger brand names, but there are tons.
Here is an example of one for 2008+ Honda
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_120701...50745&awat=pla&awnw=g&awcr=47718301945&awdv=c
Then you just sit down with the 2 harnesses (one adapter for your car and one that came with and plugs into the new radio) and match up the wires
Acc to Acc
Power to Power
LF speaker + to Lf speaker +
LF speaker - to Lf speaker -
and on and on........
After you finish doing that you should be able to plug into your factory harness and straight into the radio.
I'm tempted... but $300 is a hefty price for Chinese hardware. How long could these things likely last in So California heat?
I HAVE looked at years prices of brand name HU...
Telemachus said:
I'm tempted... but $300 is a hefty price for Chinese hardware. How long could these things likely last in So California heat?
I HAVE looked at years prices of brand name HU...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope it can hold up to heat because Im in S. FL!
I spent quite a bit more than 300 too. (500) but so far the hardware is pretty sleek. Its definitly running better than my 300 dollar unit (memory and processor were 400/600 vs this 1G/1.6G) .
If it makes you feel any better, everything freaking comes from China. This just doesnt have a US company paying them to make it and slapping a faceplate on it that says "Clarion", etc.
(There are definitely ones that are subpar... so yes, its a roll of the dice. So far so good. Time will tell)
Is it an RK3066 or RK3188
So does it run the Malaysk and similar roms? I am looking at this one for my colleague: http://www.amazon.com/Universal-Nav...TF8&qid=1442536912&sr=8-2&keywords=yinuo+quad
Mine is RK3188. Other than that, the one you posted loos like its pretty much the same specs.
So far I am very happy with it. The previous Windows CE one i had (which was much much less ram and memory) was laggy and slow. This unit is fast and has had no crashes. Seems to be a nice hardware/software combo
mikereidis said:
IMO Chinese HUs are like most Chinese products directly sold from China. Full of compromises and "gotchas".
But this is fine for MANY people, so don't let me dissuade you (too much).
There are 2 most popular "families" of Chinese HUs, sold by different vendors and with sometimes small changes.
Newsmy is the most recent and what I'd likely get if I was to buy one: http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...4-4-2-kitkat-head-unit-newsmy-carpad-t2865525
HuiFei is the older one: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2660662
Note that they both run Android 4.4 Kitkat at best. I think it's very unlikely either will be updated to Lollipop.
You can get some of these for as little as $300.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You forget Ownice which also produce for Navall.
I like the hardware in the Ownice devices, 1.6 GHz quad core, 2 gb mem, 16 gb eMMC storage , NXP radio tuner and... bluetooth 3 which sounds really great if you make a call.
HuiFei (KGL) that also produces for joying, pumpkin and so on, they have 1bg mem and uses bluetooth 2.
the only thing we don't have is root, but work is in progress to get it (i hope)
My advice and personal experience, DO NOT buy any Chinese radio. A few things to take into consideration:
1. Is it rootable? Why? (read on)
2. What's the memory on it? 4GB? 1GB is not enough, system uses about 400 of those 1024...you do the math.
3. Another way to "work" with this 1GB issue is to move apps to sd, guess what? Not *ALL* apps move, so you need to root the device and with TitaniumBackup or another app2sd solution move the apps you install to sd, and some won't update until you move back to internal memory, update, then move back to sd.
4. If you are using an app like Radio, Pandora, Spotify, whatever, iGO which is what most of these have, on every click it lowers the volume of your music.
5. If you are listening ot Pandora or Spotify (via wifi or 3g) and turn the radio on, you can barely hear the Pandora/Spotify music very low, not sure why, but I am having that issue. Having to stop all apps before switching to normal radio.
The unit I bought was the YINUO, they are telling me I can't root it, it's 1GB and I am stuck with 15 apps MOST. I want 30, 40, 50... What good is 16GB and an SD card with 32GB when you can only install 15 apps? I use NAVIGON, so I use an app called DirectoryBind (great app, btw) and it needs root, so I can put the NAVIGON maps on the GPS sdcard it comes with.
I am going to return my radio if the seller can't talk to the firmware or the person who sells them the radios to partition better that memory and make it where apps get installed in those 16GB because it's making me BOIL, and I spet $329.
---------- Post added at 11:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:55 PM ----------
Flemischguy said:
You forget Ownice which also produce for Navall.
I like the hardware in the Ownice devices, 1.6 GHz quad core, 2 gb mem, 16 gb eMMC storage , NXP radio tuner and... bluetooth 3 which sounds really great if you make a call.
HuiFei (KGL) that also produces for joying, pumpkin and so on, they have 1bg mem and uses bluetooth 2.
the only thing we don't have is root, but work is in progress to get it (i hope)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There you go, 2GB, that's better. At least better than the crappy 1GB almost all of these have. I will take a look at this radio, even if you can't root, because I don't need to root if I have more than 1GB... I don't know why, my Android TV (a CS918 II) I can install all my apps on the "sdcard" which is 16gb. That's the eMMC they use as internal, that's what they should've done with all these crapy radios..
I have a YINUO that I am VERY happy with, however our radios are vastly different from reading your specs. Unfortunately it sounds like you over paid for an old radio or one that was made to be MUCh cheaper than 300+.
I noticed the same radios at some places for sale at 185 and others 350.. SAME unit.
After a lot of research I paid 500 for mine (Amazon) and it fits perfectly into my weird factory spot( with a regular double din I would have needed an aftermarket adapter kit and not looked stock).. and its a Quad Core, android 4.4.4 Kitkat, 4BG memory and 16 GB Ram. For just a little more than you spent look at how different the specs are. I also dont have the issues you have with audio levels. Mine has a lot of setting that can change that (ie in Igo8 I can set it to beep when I push a button and chage the level of the beep.. if i mute the beep i would get a audio pause, but I can also uncheck the option and get no change with touch)
From the Amazon page:
Double din in dash navigation with WSVGA 1024*600 HD touch screen; Pure Android 4.4.4 Kitkat, RK3188 1.6GHz Cortex A9 Quad Core CPU, Samsung DDR3 1GB RAM, 16GB flash memory, Mali 400MP GPU
Car DVD CD Player with AM FM RDS Radio Tuner; Support iPhone 5 5c 5s 6 Airplay and audio input, Android phone Mirror link; Play music or video via SD card or USB; Support 1080P video and 3D game; Support subwoofer and EQ, 4*50W power output
Built-in GPS navigation with dual zone function, Bluetooth for hands-free phone call and music playback; Support Steeing Wheel Control, ELM327 OBD2; Support AV-IN reverse camera, DVR Digital Video Recorder; Support internet surfing via 3G WiFi Hospots
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, if you bought from overseas you are screwed on returns. I did the same thing with a lesser stereo that was a different Chinese vendor. It shipped from Hong Kong and required return to Hong Kong.. (180 bucks at most shippers, 100 through USPS snail freight) The Yinuo I bought was Chinese but they said returns are to their warehouse in the US, so I took the chance and ended up very happy.
But yes, Chinese radios are a gamble and hardware specs are EXTREMELY important.
If you dont buy the latest youre likely going to regret it.
Sorry you had that bad experience.
m4f1050 said:
My advice and personal experience, DO NOT buy any Chinese radio. A few things to take into consideration:
1. Is it rootable? Why? (read on)
2. What's the memory on it? 4GB? 1GB is not enough, system uses about 400 of those 1024...you do the math.
3. Another way to "work" with this 1GB issue is to move apps to sd, guess what? Not *ALL* apps move, so you need to root the device and with TitaniumBackup or another app2sd solution move the apps you install to sd, and some won't update until you move back to internal memory, update, then move back to sd.
4. If you are using an app like Radio, Pandora, Spotify, whatever, iGO which is what most of these have, on every click it lowers the volume of your music.
5. If you are listening ot Pandora or Spotify (via wifi or 3g) and turn the radio on, you can barely hear the Pandora/Spotify music very low, not sure why, but I am having that issue. Having to stop all apps before switching to normal radio.
The unit I bought was the YINUO, they are telling me I can't root it, it's 1GB and I am stuck with 15 apps MOST. I want 30, 40, 50... What good is 16GB and an SD card with 32GB when you can only install 15 apps? I use NAVIGON, so I use an app called DirectoryBind (great app, btw) and it needs root, so I can put the NAVIGON maps on the GPS sdcard it comes with.
I am going to return my radio if the seller can't talk to the firmware or the person who sells them the radios to partition better that memory and make it where apps get installed in those 16GB because it's making me BOIL, and I spet $329.
---------- Post added at 11:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:55 PM ----------
There you go, 2GB, that's better. At least better than the crappy 1GB almost all of these have. I will take a look at this radio, even if you can't root, because I don't need to root if I have more than 1GB... I don't know why, my Android TV (a CS918 II) I can install all my apps on the "sdcard" which is 16gb. That's the eMMC they use as internal, that's what they should've done with all these crapy radios..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bigd2442 said:
I have a YINUO that I am VERY happy with, however our radios are vastly different from reading your specs. Unfortunately it sounds like you over paid for an old radio or one that was made to be MUCh cheaper than 300+.
I noticed the same radios at some places for sale at 185 and others 350.. SAME unit.
After a lot of research I paid 500 for mine (Amazon) and it fits perfectly into my weird factory spot( with a regular double din I would have needed an aftermarket adapter kit and not looked stock).. and its a Quad Core, android 4.4.4 Kitkat, 4BG memory and 16 GB Ram. For just a little more than you spent look at how different the specs are. I also dont have the issues you have with audio levels. Mine has a lot of setting that can change that (ie in Igo8 I can set it to beep when I push a button and chage the level of the beep.. if i mute the beep i would get a audio pause, but I can also uncheck the option and get no change with touch)
From the Amazon page:
Unfortunately, if you bought from overseas you are screwed on returns. I did the same thing with a lesser stereo that was a different Chinese vendor. It shipped from Hong Kong and required return to Hong Kong.. (180 bucks at most shippers, 100 through USPS snail freight) The Yinuo I bought was Chinese but they said returns are to their warehouse in the US, so I took the chance and ended up very happy.
But yes, Chinese radios are a gamble and hardware specs are EXTREMELY important.
If you dont buy the latest youre likely going to regret it.
Sorry you had that bad experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, Amazon. I don't do eBay or non-Amazon anymore. Returns suck overseas...
All I have to do is drop off the radio at a UPS store. I had to buy a cable, they sold me 2 x DHL $25 7-14 day delivery for the cable, that's the only thing I am thinking they can probably scr3w me, but no, because I asked them if they would refund me the $50 if the cable didn't work and they said $45, well, the cable worked, but for a radio I am returning and doesn't work for me, so they will also have to return me the cable and shipping (at least $45 out of $50 and they have to provide the shipping back) since I can't use the radio. When I went to "Factory Reset" it asked me for a password, which they say they can't give me???? C'mon, seriously they are going to make me go through every single app and uninstall it...? Jeez... Not bad experience to learn from....
bigd2442 said:
I have a YINUO that I am VERY happy with, however our radios are vastly different from reading your specs. Unfortunately it sounds like you over paid for an old radio or one that was made to be MUCh cheaper than 300+.
I noticed the same radios at some places for sale at 185 and others 350.. SAME unit.
After a lot of research I paid 500 for mine (Amazon) and it fits perfectly into my weird factory spot( with a regular double din I would have needed an aftermarket adapter kit and not looked stock).. and its a Quad Core, android 4.4.4 Kitkat, 4BG memory and 16 GB Ram. For just a little more than you spent look at how different the specs are. I also dont have the issues you have with audio levels. Mine has a lot of setting that can change that (ie in Igo8 I can set it to beep when I push a button and chage the level of the beep.. if i mute the beep i would get a audio pause, but I can also uncheck the option and get no change with touch)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, where did you find a 4GB RAM 16GB Android radio at? I searched Amazon like crazy but none to be found.
m4f1050 said:
Hi, where did you find a 4GB RAM 16GB Android radio at? I searched Amazon like crazy but none to be found.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Woops, I actually typed part of that wrong, sorry.. it was 1GB of RAM, and 16GB. Still a HUGE improvement over the older ones that had like 400 Ram and 1-4GB.
Mine was specific to my truck but here's some others.....
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=YINUO+QUAD+CORE+16GB
bigd2442 said:
Woops, I actually typed part of that wrong, sorry.. it was 1GB of RAM, and 16GB. Still a HUGE improvement over the older ones that had like 400 Ram and 1-4GB.
Mine was specific to my truck but here's some others.....
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=YINUO+QUAD+CORE+16GB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh..... That's the one I have, not the older one. So I guess I paid ok. $319 for mine. 1GB, 16GB with Malaysk ROM I managed to get 2GB for apps and all my apps got installed and newer launcher, better phone app, lots of goodies! I AM SUPER HAPPY with mine now!!!
Do you happen to know the dimensions?
m4f1050 said:
Oh..... That's the one I have, not the older one. So I guess I paid ok. $319 for mine. 1GB, 16GB with Malaysk ROM I managed to get 2GB for apps and all my apps got installed and newer launcher, better phone app, lots of goodies! I AM SUPER HAPPY with mine now!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How much was the rooted rom?
Dave

How to choose which unit?

I am looking to buy an android head unit. I've found a few with different specs and screen sizes. I am wondering if someone with some experience with these units can help.
I'm trying to choose between these 3 units.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/10-1-Quad-C...For-Toyota-Highlander-2011-2014-/181834823295
This one is 10 inches (good), runs android 4.4.4 (good), all the latest specs...but it says it only works on 2011-2014 toyota highlander models. I have a 2009. It doesnt make sense because all of the other ones are made for Highlanders from 2008-2013, which is the 2nd gen and this looks like it is an exact replacement for my head unit. Not sure I want to gamble on that, otherwise this would be my first option.
http://www.carjoying.com/quad-core-...ouch-screen-1024-600-resolution-double-d.html
This one is only 8 inches, but it gets good reviews from some users on the Toyota Highlander forum. IT has all of the latest specs, like the one above. And it is made for my model year.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pure-Androi...n-/181738329265?ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123
This one is 10 inches, but it has an older dual-core processor and is on android 4.4.2. It is also made for my model year.
There are so many options and they all look a little different. I dont know how to choose!!! I am mostly planning to use this for navigation, bluetooth audio/calling, and FM/AM radio. Of course, all of the android functionality is great, but those core functions are the most important for me. Anyone have any ideas?
I do not have a highlander, but have been doing days and days of research and cannot decide. I am on the market for a generic 7in double din unit. Hopefully some people who have lots of experience with these HUs can chime in to provide guidance/input.
I have been looking at joying, but they seem to only provide HUs with 1GB memory only. Is the 1GB memory enough? Most units these days have 2GB options.
Most units these days have 2GB options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually most of the units ARE 1GB units. Pretty much every single android head unit on the market uses the exact same small CPU/memory integrated sub-board that plugs into the main board on their unit. In fact the same motherboards are used between the dual and quad core, 8gb and 16gb flash models, only that small internal pluggable cpu board is different. It is also possible that these units will be able to be upgraded to faster CPU's with more ram in the future by swapping out the CPU boards.
All of the 2GB units right now appearing on the market, are usually a totally different design of having an entirely separate android pizza box(I am guessing they are repurposed TV boxes or something) which you have to figure out how to install somewhere and also a separate screen unit that you also have to install in the dash. The 1GB RAM head units are all a single integrated unit that installs in the regular double din location. I personally like the traditional single unit designs myself and chose not to use a 2GB unit because of that.
But really the choice comes down to price, specs (quad core, 16gb space, 1024x600 screen is what seems to be the best specs), and the features, button layout, if you want a DVD slot, or one without so you get a bigger screen, etc.. and then of course if you care about who you purchase it from and support etc..
nixfu said:
Actually most of the units ARE 1GB units. Pretty much every single android head unit on the market uses the exact same small CPU/memory integrated sub-board that plugs into the main board on their unit. In fact the same motherboards are used between the dual and quad core, 8gb and 16gb flash models, only that small internal pluggable cpu board is different. It is also possible that these units will be able to be upgraded to faster CPU's with more ram in the future by swapping out the CPU boards.
All of the 2GB units right now appearing on the market, are usually a totally different design of having an entirely separate android pizza box(I am guessing they are repurposed TV boxes or something) which you have to figure out how to install somewhere and also a separate screen unit that you also have to install in the dash. The 1GB RAM head units are all a single integrated unit that installs in the regular double din location. I personally like the traditional single unit designs myself and chose not to use a 2GB unit because of that.
But really the choice comes down to price, specs (quad core, 16gb space, 1024x600 screen is what seems to be the best specs), and the features, button layout, if you want a DVD slot, or one without so you get a bigger screen, etc.. and then of course if you care about who you purchase it from and support etc..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nixfu - thanks for the prompt response...this is very helpful information! What about the screens? Are they also similar across the board? I do not mind paying more money for a reliable/stable unit...I am more concerned about the risk of purchasing a HU plagued with software/hardware issues. One of the things I would like is having the ability to configure the HU to go into suspend when the power is switched off. I have seen several units that can be configured up to 2 hours suspend, but would like to be able to increase that up to potentially 24/48 hours or maybe more. You may have talked me into purchasing a CarJoying HU with your post/review of it Can that unit be configured to go into suspend longer than 2 hours when car ignition is switched off? Thanks again!
skange01 said:
Can that unit be configured to go into suspend longer than 2 hours when car ignition is switched off? Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. I think they all have a min of 30secs and max of 2hours in the settings menu. Maybe that is something that Malaysk could add in his custom firmware.

Longevity

I have been looking at replacing the deck in my car and came across an Android unit that I have been thinking about pulling the trigger on. I have seen mixed reviews on the CHU's on here and was looking for some advice. I do not have a ton of money to spend on a new unit so I cannot afford any of the Pumpkin or Joying units (off of Amazon at least).
I was also wondering what the Longevity of the Android OS car stereos are. I know they are not a phone but they are still essentially a computer and would rather not have to replace the stereo every 3 or so years because it is unbearably slow.
I am not able to post links but I took a screen shot of the Amazon page. I do not see a model number for this unit to post that.
It is EHOTCHPOTCH with listed specs:
Screen Size: 7 inch
Display Ratio: 16:9
OS: Android 7.1 system
Screen Resolution: 800 x 480
CPU: Quad Core 1.6GHZ
Features: SD/USB Support, Touch Screen, Subwoofer Output, Steering Wheel Control, RDS, Built-in WIFI, Built-in Bluetooth RAM Memory: DDR3 1GB
iNand Momery: 16GB
OSD Languages: Italian, Spanish, German, French, English, Greek, Thai, Russian,etc
GPS Antenna: 1 GPS antenna interface on the back
GPS Dual Zone: Yes,you can enjoy music and radio while navigation
Bluetooth: Yes
EQ Mode: pop,jazz,dance,rock,normal,customized mode
Built-in microphone: Yes
Mirror Link: Support
WIFI: Support WIFI(Built-in WIFI)
It really depends on your expectations and what you want out of it. On my previous car I had an android hu for 6 years maybe more but it is NOT the same as a phone or tablet, it never has been in my experience. I always seem to find things I wish it could do but can't. For example bluetooth will only work with phones for music and calls and may work with a specific obd but that's it, nothing else.
Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk
How much?
skezza said:
How much?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is 170 with a 5% off coupon, so 161.50. It also comes with a reverse camera.
Rellik14 said:
It is 170 with a 5% off coupon, so 161.50. It also comes with a reverse camera.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very cheap then. Can't say how long it'll last I'm afraid.
skezza said:
Very cheap then. Can't say how long it'll last I'm afraid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ended up getting one from EinCar for 179. Figured spend a little more and get one with octa core and more RAM.
Planning on installing it tonight, hopefully it isnt too much of a pain to wire and to wire the camera.

Android Head Unit 1GB RAM, 9.0 PIE

Hi recently got a head unit. SPECS ARE AS FOLLOWS
Android 9.0 System
HD Screen 1024*600
1080P HD Video
Amplifier IC: TDA7851
Rado Chip: TEA6856
1GB DDR3 RAM Memory
Built In 16 GB Inand,
It came with Android 9.0. Should I downgrade based on hardware spec of 1GB.
Heres what I dont like:
- no obvious night mode, seems this only works if you have a android phone and mirror it. i use iOS.
- when using iOS device - it says contact vendor, illegal license. it wont mirror iphone even on wifi connection as intended
- have sat radio unit plugged in through 1/8 inch jack. there is no way to control volume.
I know I have pointed out several issues and it may be too much for one topic, but overall i am unhappy with the head unit as is.
Is there some flash or firmware downgrade I can do that will make this system better - and perhaps solve all of the aforementioned points above?
Members would have to guess your unit, so not likely to receive responses. Have a view through the forums, pickup a general understanding and suggest trying again .
marchnz said:
Members would have to guess your unit, so not likely to receive responses. Have a view through the forums, pickup a general understanding and suggest trying again .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i will do my best and try. Just tough i cant post a photo.
I will scroll through my settings and get more device information.
tx
i will do my best and try. Just tough i cant post a photo.
I will scroll through my settings and get more device information.
Oh wait does this help? Its called Navivox.
Navivox 9"
2 din android 9.0 Car
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Beginners guide to Android head units

Hey all, I've been messing around with android for ages, I've built a head unit using a Nexus 7 running Timurs kernel. That's become fairly outdated now and I've discovered that I can buy one of the head units running android which does everything the nexus did but better.
But I am so out of the loop with all the terminology and it seems that there isn't an obvious Go-To brand.
I was hoping this forum could answer some questions that I'm sure a lot of people are asking. So,
What does MTCB, MTCD and FYT stand for, a basic explanation of them and why would you pick one over the other?
What are the most popular / widely accepted / most supported brands / models from each group?
I'm personally after a ~ 9 inch device I can use as a dash for my aftermarket PCM (RealDash is the app I'll use) that also has standard headunit features. I'm looking at a Joying unit but I want to know what my options are.
Thanks heaps for any information
Hopefully this can be made into a thread for new people to get the lowdown and basics of Android based head units.
I have had an ATOTO head unit for over a year now and I have been very pleased with it. I recently got a newer model that I will be swapping it out with soon.
ATOTO has the best value for features and performance on the market today. Their products are primarily sold on Amazon, and they also sell direct at https://store.myatoto.com/ . There are several reviews on Amazon and you can Google ATOTO reviews and read some independent ones as well. Overall, they come highly recommended. They have great customer support, but since they are overseas it is by email only with a 24-48 hour turnaround for a response. You can also search for ATOTO in the forums here and there are several threads.
I hope this helps...
I saw a video for beginners the other day on Youtube
He seems to have lots of other good videos.
I'm also new, even though I've used Joying for a decade.
It seems they all use the same image or build off a common base, like all units use a PX5 or PX6 rom image. I wonder if they build it themselves or where is the origin?
Atoto makes their own Android based custom ROM and UI, the current units are based on Android 10. Unfortunately, there is no resource I have found here to root this latest version. But, you can certainly install another UI like Nova Launcher and such.
BTW, their latest models have a 1024x600 IPS display with 178 degree viewing angle.
Atoto does not use these px5 or px6 images?
Ok, px5 and px6 are actually processors.
Then I guess what my next question is, do they build off a common Android for head units branch?
As in, I dont't think they all are branching the git repo of Android, instead of branching from some head unit branch?
This really ought to be a Wiki article (except XDA axed that) or a sticky. There are many people here who know a ton about Android but aren't conversant with head units. Most of the posts on this subforum have to do with specific problems for specific functions on specific units in specific cars. Not a great way to get an oversight.
Let me flesh out what I mean (from my naive knowledge and subject to correction/expansion):
Head units are composed of:
Chassis
Single DIN
Double DIN
Others?
Motherboard
STM32F microcontroller (usually?)
Speaker amplifier
FM radio tuner
WiFi interface
Bluetooth interface
Resistive steering wheel controls interface (2)
Serial interface to external, optional CAN BUS (OBDII) box
Rear view camera interface
GPS interface
Standardized? rear panel connectors
"Core board" (a pluggable, modular Android system) Often named after the Rockchip processor used, PX4, PX5, PX6. Is this the only format? Are these modules used for anything besides head units?
LCD/OLED Display
Renate said:
This really ought to be a Wiki article (except XDA axed that) or a sticky. There are many people here who know a ton about Android but aren't conversant with head units. Most of the posts on this subforum have to do with specific problems for specific functions on specific units in specific cars. Not a great way to get an oversight.
Let me flesh out what I mean (from my naive knowledge and subject to correction/expansion):
Head units are composed of:
Chassis
Single DIN
Double DIN
Car specific formats
Motherboard
STM32F, MTC*, CSN*, CSM*, FYT, RK7* and a couple of older and outdated boards still sold
Speaker amplifier
FM radio tuner
WiFi interface
Bluetooth interface
Resistive steering wheel controls interface (2)
Serial interface to external, optional CAN BUS (OBDII) box
Rear view camera interface
GPS interface
Standardized? rear panel connectors (no standard, as there are 30-pin, 21-pin, ISO and Quadlock connectors)
"Core board" (a pluggable, modular Android system) Often named after the Rockchip processor used, PX4, PX5, PX6. Is this the only format? (No, also some kind of ALLWINNER boards mainly acting with 8227L chipsets, Intel...) Are these modules used for anything besides head units? (not really, because they are just some sort of "reader" for the main board, the communication between the hardware and Android is completely different from any other Android device.)
LCD/OLED Display (and resistive an capacitive displays)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my comments inline in red..
That is not that easy with these units.
The most important thing here is, that thread starter do not use the search function, which leads to a lot of duplicated threads. There needs to be a clear instruction to use the search and how to figure out which sub-forum to ask in, means the thread starter needs to know the facts of his unit in front....
As we see in the MTC and this forum, we often have to ask about MCU and Chipset and that leads often in asking the mods for moving the threads into the right forum.
If you ask me: I have no real idea how to get that structured in a way that someone who has the knowledge is able to help without check backs for details.
If you have a look at this forum, you might find some dozen of threads regarding the same MCU/Chipset... really not ideal.
famadorian said:
I saw a video for beginners the other day on Youtube
He seems to have lots of other good videos.
I'm also new, even though I've used Joying for a decade.
It seems they all use the same image or build off a common base, like all units use a PX5 or PX6 rom image. I wonder if they build it themselves or where is the origin?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been watching this guy's videos as well, but can't helped getting the feeling he is being heavily sponsored by brands like Joying.
Also: I personally don't believe, that a octacore head-unit is necessarily. There a plenty of Quad-Core ARM A7 headunits out there, which are below €$£ 150 where as the octacore units are way more expensive.
€ 110,61 50%OFF | Ekiy T7 Qled Dsp Android Auto Radio Voor Suzuki Celerio Alto 2014 - 2018 Stereo Auto Multimedia Video Speler 2din carplay Gps Navi
https://a.aliexpress.com/_vE6we4
So personally I opted for a € 150 unit, featuring a 720P IPS screen, 2GB of RAM and 32GB storage and Apple Carplay and Android Auto support. The last one seemly is called AA, although AA is also the road assistance in the United Kingdom....
Anyway most people will tell you not to buy a Quad-Core unit, but I did it nevertheless. These units are in a way quite similar like the Nexus 7, which has a Cortex A9 instead of Cortex A7. The last one being one of the most energy efficient chipsets.... isn't that important as well for a car?
The Nexus 7 had a 800x1280 screen, and 1GB of RAM and worked just fine. Until the storage got screwed up.... I still have mine, but it doesn't seem to do much anymore.
One thing to consider: when using mainly Android Auto or Apple Carplay, than in theory even a 1GB RAM unit would be fine. I believe he tested some of these as well.... they where quite impressive for the money. Also technology is way better, than a few years ago. Even though it seems there hasn't been much going on at the budget side...
But budget head-units below € 150 used to be way worse: a few years ago I couldn't even find a single unit for my car, below € 250. Now it starts at € 110 with a completely integrated frame. Of course I would suggest adding € 40 more and getting atleast the unit with 2GB of RAM.
DexterMorganNL said:
I have been watching this guy's videos as well, but can't helped getting the feeling he is being heavily sponsored by brands like Joying.
Also: I personally don't believe, that a octacore head-unit is necessarily. There a plenty of Quad-Core ARM A7 headunits out there, which are below €$£ 150 where as the octacore units are way more expensive.
€ 110,61 50%OFF | Ekiy T7 Qled Dsp Android Auto Radio Voor Suzuki Celerio Alto 2014 - 2018 Stereo Auto Multimedia Video Speler 2din carplay Gps Navi
https://a.aliexpress.com/_vE6we4
So personally I opted for a € 150 unit, featuring a 720P IPS screen, 2GB of RAM and 32GB storage and Apple Carplay and Android Auto support. The last one seemly is called AA, although AA is also the road assistance in the United Kingdom....
Anyway most people will tell you not to buy a Quad-Core unit, but I did it nevertheless. These units are in a way quite similar like the Nexus 7, which has a Cortex A9 instead of Cortex A7. The last one being one of the most energy efficient chipsets.... isn't that important as well for a car?
The Nexus 7 had a 800x1280 screen, and 1GB of RAM and worked just fine. Until the storage got screwed up.... I still have mine, but it doesn't seem to do much anymore.
One thing to consider: when using mainly Android Auto or Apple Carplay, than in theory even a 1GB RAM unit would be fine. I believe he tested some of these as well.... they where quite impressive for the money. Also technology is way better, than a few years ago. Even though it seems there hasn't been much going on at the budget side...
But budget head-units below € 150 used to be way worse: a few years ago I couldn't even find a single unit for my car, below € 250. Now it starts at € 110 with a completely integrated frame. Of course I would suggest adding € 40 more and getting atleast the unit with 2GB of RAM.
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This is your personal thing.
I don´t recommend to buy such a QuadCore thing, as it is lame as hell, does not support deep sleep, does not provide any support in case there is something wrong with the unit. This, I already wrote to you in another thread.
Please don´t recommend such a nonsense as there are top units available for around 200-250 Euro/USD. It is may be okayish for you, but the majority wants and needs something which does not need these stupid AA or this Carplay.
To use any head unit just as a monitor for Android Auto or Apple Carplay is just a bit hard to understand, as the units with at least a PX5 has more functionality as Android Auto or Carplay would ever be able to provide.
Buy this overpriced unit with a QuadCore and I would really hope that we don´t read that you buyed just BS.
Well it's your personal opinion as well.... it ain't facts.... and it isn't overpriced. The euro is just very weak on the moment, one euro is only $ 0,99 I saw last time.
Ah well have fun with your expensive Chinese Android head-unit, I bet they break as fast as the cheaper ones and there won't be any difference when using Android Auto. And please stop calling it AA, because it's confusing as in British English that's how they call the road assistance. How do you call Apple Carplay then? AC? That's your air conditioner
For € 300 I can buy a JVC: so why the heck spend this kind off money, on a Chinese Android head-unit?
Anyway Saab Unleashed also tested an cheap ARM A7 unit, and it's just fine. This being even a unit with 1GB RAM and only 16GB storage. Also no 720P screen. It really depends on your own usage, how the experience with such a unit is.
Not all Android applications need so much processing. And also I don't believe it's a fact that these units don't support deep sleep. Because there is still a lot of difference between ARM A7 Android head-units. A quick search on Google learns, that deep sleep is supported within the ARM A7 chipset.
And it's not like that Joying or any other brand, is in the league of a Chinese brand like Xiaomi. So yes I rather go for a cheaper Android head-unit, even though it comes with a slower but very energy efficient chipset. Energy efficiency is also very important.
Oh and all Chinese goods bought directly from China, don't provide the warranty you are used to for example in Europe. If I buy a JVC unit, for € 300 than I can be sure to have warranty for atleast 2 years. An Chinese Android head-unit, no matter which price only provides warranty as long as the AlliExpress buyer protection lasts!
DexterMorganNL said:
One thing to consider: when using mainly Android Auto or Apple Carplay...
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This reinforces what I've been saying. This whole subforum is an inbred world only with difficulty accessible to a non-auto Android user (or even developer).
I presume from the above quote that those things are basically equivalent to Roku screen mirroring with some bells and whistles thrown in?
Renate said:
This reinforces what I've been saying. This whole subforum is an inbred world only with difficulty accessible to a non-auto Android user (or even developer).
I presume from the above quote that those things are basically equivalent to Roku screen mirroring with some bells and whistles thrown in?
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Well that's usually the case isn't it? But I just recently heard about Roku, saw those streaming sticks lying in a Germany Saturn. Didn't know what it was, but I guess it's something like Amazon Fire stick?
But actually the cheapest vehicle specific headunits, don't even come with Apple Carplay or Android auto support. I considered getting the cheapest one, as they are all able to use native Android apps.
Only I was concerned, that 1GB RAM would not be enough to atleast run Google Maps and Spotify on the same time. So I looked further, compared multiple sellers. Mostly all offering the same ****....
So I was surprised that Ekiy, was offering a unit that came with a 720P IPS screen. While other resellers, sell these kind of units with a 1024x600 TN Screen.

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