Guys. I have a really good contact to a manufacturer
And he asked me how he can make units better.
I told him the new units are good hardware but bad software. He asked me how he can make the software better... He really don't know the problems and want a end of the problems.
So i make a list. And need u to complete it.
0. The simplest, and most effective answer Release the source code! Make it public. Let the developer community fix the software problems for you. You'll get better solutions AND you'll get them sooner. You will also sell many, many more head units
We need a ROM with ability to root, we need access to recovery so our developers can make the ROM flash, the problem with your software still the same...
1. We want Ok Google without bush button
2. Making Call someone with ok Google
3. We want Google maps but today there are problems with voice output
4. After reboot some apps don't work properly
5. Your Equalizer is not enough. We need more options like car headunits...
Crossover that's seperate per channel HPF, LPF and possible BandPass (Front, Rear, Sub)
We are power users, and audiophile.
6. Chinch output for subwoofer is without function... All China devices still have this problem..
7. Ok Google from any screen
8. Full band equalizers
9. Proper internal amp
10. A real RDS for radio! I really don't know what is exactly the issue with Chinese head units and RDS support, which they claim they have it, but they usually don't. Now we search radio stations on frequency numbers... c'mon! A real and working RDS support is a MUST feature. We want to see radio station names and other RDS data.
11. Software is really the pain of these head units. Now they are just Android tablets in a 2din form-factor. What we need is a car dedicated launcher with 10-foot UI approach that works good with HU dedicated apps like Radio.app.
12.Proper Bluetooth implementation for connection to other devices (keyboards,Joypad,TPMS etc).
13. Color changeable buttons
14. Buttons and sterling wheel custom remap (hold, press, dubble press)
15.FM frequency range are from 76 to 95 Mhz since 2014.But most of Chinese HU are still 76 to 90 Mhz.
16.ability to control which apps gets killed on power off and which app will auto start on ignition.
I know there are much more problems... But he asked me, because I'm from Germany and i can speak 4 different languages (English,German,Turkish,arabic) all of them not god enough haha.
I'm the wrong person and i don't want forget something important.
I really don't know why he chooses me... My English ist bad. But he did. And that's it. now it's in our hands. To make it right. now he wants a list. A buketlist
How can we make u happy explicitly the developers!
To carry on supporting the older units like mtcb/c
Android units that can control iPods such as the normal head units with the "Made for iPod" logo.
Reading external hard drives of large capacity
Single din head units that don't look like something out of the movie Tron.
Full band equalizers
Proper internal amp
Voice commands such as those in Parrot Asteroid Smart.
Quality microphone. I have a somewhat noisy car (louder exhaust) and call quality is sub-par to what I was getting with a prior JVC unit.
What do i want?
A brand cpu like a Snapdragon 821 (it contains wifi AC 2.5/5.0 GHZ, LTE 4G+ modem, Spectra Camera ISP for car dashcam and so on...) 4gb mem, 32 or 64 gb SLC Nand, Burr Brown or Wolfson or Cirrus audio dac, high sensitive FM and DAB+ receiver from NXP, in sun readable OLED screen, voice control, and a pure Android shell like the pixel and root so people with Android skills can make this device better.
I know, this unit will be expensive and maybe overkill, but the advantage is that these are very good brand parts with driver support from factory, and that you can have this device for years instead to upgrade it after 2 year, if the producer follow the Android OS updates (for example, from Android 6 to 7 or 8) this device is strong enough to make such upgrade for some years.
Wich company have the nerve to make such device?
Flemischguy said:
What do i want?
A brand cpu like a Snapdragon 821 (it contains wifi AC 2.5/5.0 GHZ, LTE 4G+ modem, Spectra Camera ISP for car dashcam and so on...) 4gb mem, 32 or 64 gb SLC Nand, Burr Brown or Wolfson or Cirrus audio dac, high sensitive FM and DAB+ receiver from NXP, in sun readable OLED screen, voice control, and a pure Android shell like the pixel and root so people with Android skills can make this device better.
I know, this unit will be expensive and maybe overkill, but the advantage is that these are very good brand parts with driver support from factory, and that you can have this device for years instead to upgrade it after 2 year, if the producer follow the Android OS updates (for example, from Android 6 to 7 or 8) this device is strong enough to make such upgrade for some years.
Wich company have the nerve to make such device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would be epic, but 99% of china stuff won't ever get that. Cost would be too high and they wouldn't move units in masses like they do now
Would it be possible to use an external battery to keep the hu in sleep mode instead of car battery? Like those 10 000mah cheap ones.
Good quality radio chip.
Rear camera on start.
Old snapdragon models, probably better than the cpu they use and cheap.
At least 64gb for app storage.
3gb of ram would be nice.
Real dvd player not like the mercedes special Joying HU...
Thats about it and it's a perfect unit for 2017 I guess^^
And yes I'd rather pay a few more and get a good headunit. I dont plan to change my hu evey two years like I do with smartphones.
Android auto. And Apple CarPlay. Let our phones do all the hard work.
kaderekusen said:
Guys. I have a really good contact to a manufacturer
And he asked me how he can make units better....
...How can we make u happy explicitly the developers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The simplest, and most effective answer to your question is this: release the source code! Make it public. Let the developer community fix the software problems for you. You'll get better solutions AND you'll get them sooner. You will also sell many, many more head units.
I may sound cynical, but I don't think you will find a Chinese supplier who understands what is needed to deliver the quality we are looking for, even if you tell them 10 times. I honestly think they don't understand any of the complaints on this forum. These guys are very creative in producing large numbers against very low cost, at the cost of serious quality assurance. They never look beyond their next sale, brand loyalty is a concept unknown to them.
Are they incapable of delivering what we would like? No, of course not. 90% of the equipment we use in everyday life was produced in China. It's just that companies like Sony, Kenwood, etc take the entire design process in their own hands, define their own QA-protocols and have their own people on site checking before batches leave the factory. In the end they have the purchasing power to kick out any supplier that doesn't perform. For this to change will take at least another generation, maybe even more. So unless somebody in another part of the world takes matters in his own hands and has units produced to his specs, I don't think much will change in the near future.
That being said, the software is the worst part of the system. As dhmsjs said, release that to the public and they will make it much better.
Apart from that:
- Carkit on Parrot-level;
- Quality DAC for the pre-out and amplifier section;
- Proper aftersales and parts-supply (if something breaks down now, with most suppliers you can throw away the entire unit, although issues can often easily be solved by simply providing a new button or board)
But then again, they mostly compete on pricing. The items mentioned above have the BOM rise and they think we are not willing to pay for that.
Ok he is here and read all your wishes
A real RDS for radio! I really don't know what is exactly the issue with Chinese head units and RDS support, which they claim they have it, but they usually don't. Now we search radio stations on frequency numbers... c'mon! A real and working RDS support is a MUST feature. We want to see radio station names and other RDS data.
Software is really the pain of these head units. Now they are just Android tablets in a 2din form-factor. What we need is a car dedicated launcher with 10-foot UI approach that works good with HU dedicated apps like Radio.app.
Agree with more focus on Audio quality/DAC and control - EQ, time alignment etc or at least full support for USB DAC including the ability to route radio and Bluetooth through it. Proper Bluetooth implementation for connection to other devices (keyboards,Joypad,TPMS etc).
Community engagement on XDA, there are effectively free software developers sat here waiting to help.
Always on OK Google with voice feedback.
Better Radio app with full RDS support, a lot of these units don't even display the station name. RDS is very prevalent in Europe and not having it feels like using a radio form the 70's
Ability to change the function of hardware buttons on the unit.
In my country(Japan) FM frequency range are from 76 to 95 Mhz since 2014.But most of Chinese HU are still 76 to 90 Mhz.I think this problem are easy to fix with the MCU update.Make it public the source code please!
ability to control which apps gets killed on power off and which app will auto start on ignition.
full bluetooth function
better dash fit
better steering wheel button control/remapping ability
Better EQ, Crossover that's seperate per channel HPF, LPF and possible BandPass (Front, Rear, Sub) 2GB or better ram. Open Source Support for custom rom/recovery. Strong RCA Voltage Outputs, Possibly 4V. Better Cases/Buttons etc. thats all I can think of for now.
Open Source as previously mentioned, best way to get devs like me to help you for free.
Super simple rooting
Android Auto installed by default (not the mirror link).
OK Google always on (as mentioned previously)
Actually just having Android Auto would be fantastic, I have several cars most with factory navs, so when I get into those I immediately use android auto. I want the same for my car except on long road trips then I'll setup a mobile hotspot and use the much more full featured system. But for daily driving, I get into my car set google maps (with traffic alerts) and take the quickest path to work.
the ultimate would be if it is possible to have a HUD screen output for Navigation and Speedometer utilising OBD data for speedometer. Or even to the extend of Navdy style HUD.
mishoboss said:
A real RDS for radio! I really don't know what is exactly the issue with Chinese head units and RDS support, which they claim they have it, but they usually don't. Now we search radio stations on frequency numbers... c'mon! A real and working RDS support is a MUST feature. We want to see radio station names and other RDS data.
as i know ,many Chinese head unit can display the station name ,the radio chip NXP TEF6686 can support display the name . maybe you did not click the PTY ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
peterchan2003 said:
as i know ,many Chinese head unit can display the station name ,the radio chip NXP TEF6686 can support display the name . maybe you did not click the PTY ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are many fields of Rds data. Should be able to display: PS, Pty, & RT at minimum. Pty should adjust to region.
Related
I'm (hopefully tomorrow) replacing my dying Jeep. Likely candidates are a 2014 Rav4 or a 2012 Town and Country. Both seem to have good double-din slots without having a lot of vehicle subsystems tied to the factory HU. So ... I am beginning to investigate putting in an Android HU.
I'd like a recommendation on the best HU -for me- ... I know it isn't going to be the same for everyone. What I'm looking for, in no particular order, and not all of these are must-haves:
* community-supported ROMs
* 2GB RAM is highly desired.
* video input for the factory-equipped backup camera
* steering wheel controls (I'm assuming I need an adapter specific for whichever car I buy, probably not included with the HU but I want the HU to be able to accept them if possible)
* Decent sound quality output
* Good radio reception (does the US have an equivalent to DAB?) ... I'm willing to use an external FM module if that ends up being the highest quality option. App support is included in the word "good" here. And as likely figured out, I'm in the U.S.
* Some SIMPLE form of external storage (SD card is fine, USB HD is fine, I even have a spare 60GB SSD with built-in USB port since I just rebuilt my PC)
* Ability to tether to my WiFi hotspot (currently it would be a Nexus 5 phone) OR Bluetooth data connection (but I've found BT data sharing to be less well supported).
* Lollipop? I realize from searching there aren't any out there yet (pfft @ Parrot for nixing the aftermarket version of the RNB6) ... I'm not in a big rush to do the upgrade RIGHT NOW, if I can wait a few months to get a 5.x HU I will do that. Just need to know if such a model is known to be in the works?
I might go with a tablet-in-dash alternative, but would rather have a full HU. I've looked at various applink/mirrorlink solutions and found them all wanting.
>community-supported ROMs
Yes, most of us are using the custom ROMs made by Malaysk.
>2GB RAM is highly desired.
They are all 1GB devices and use nearly the same integrated CPU/RAM chipsets right now. I am pretty sure that we will see 2GB devices eventually but all of them right now are 1GB. But frankly for everything you need to do on these units 1GB is fine, just like it is for most android tablets. And the quad core devices are very responsive and snappy, going from dual core to quad core makes more of a performance difference in experience.
>* video input for the factory-equipped backup camera
Pretty much every unit has a standard composite input dedicated for backup cameras which are activated with 12v on the backup signal line. They are all also able to show the backup camera before the system is fully booted, so you turn the car on, put it in reverse and you can see the backup camera while the android continues to boot in the background (15-30secs).
>* steering wheel controls (I'm assuming I need an adapter specific for whichever car I buy, probably not included with the HU but I want the HU to be able to accept them if possible)
A standard feature, and most cars are based on the same standard.
>* Decent sound quality output
I have found they have good sound output. Especially for playing MP3's. They also extensive audio controls and EQ capabilities so you can really tune the sound compared to most factory units of "Bass/Treble".
>* Good radio reception (does the US have an equivalent to DAB?) ... I'm willing to use an external FM module if that ends up being the highest quality option. App support is included in the word "good" here. And as likely figured out, I'm in the U.S.
Some say the AM/FM is more sensitive than their factory radio was. I find it to be about equal in my case.
>* Some SIMPLE form of external storage (SD card is fine, USB HD is fine, I even have a spare 60GB SSD with built-in USB port since I just rebuilt my PC)
Most units have a couple of SD card slots that can use whatever SD card size you want. I have a 32GB and a 64GB in mine. They also support whatever USB sticks you want to use on their USB ports. They maybe do not work with USB hard drives from what I have read, you would beed to research further.
>* Ability to tether to my WiFi hotspot (currently it would be a Nexus 5 phone) OR Bluetooth data connection (but I've found BT data sharing to be less well supported).
Most all support wifi tethering, but they do not support bluetooth tethering because the bluetooth is actually handled by a dedicated bluetooth card designed for audio/phone control.
>* Lollipop? I realize from searching there aren't any out there yet (pfft @ Parrot for nixing the aftermarket version of the RNB6) ... I'm not in a big rush to do the upgrade RIGHT NOW, if I can wait a few months to get a 5.x HU I will do that. Just need to know if such a model is known to be in the works?
Its a nice to have, but there are more 4.x devices in the world than their are 5.x and it will be supported for quite awhile. I am not sure what all it buys us anyway because 4.x is stable and 5.x new features really only apply to phones.
Basically, most all the current android head units are based on the same internal hardware designs, the and main differences are in the physical front panel layout of what buttons, or knobs, or if you want a dvd slot or not etc.. my recommendation is that you get one with the best options available right now which are a) quad core, b) 1024x600 screen res, c) 16GB internal flash storage. Other than those specs its all down to the physical design of the units front panel for the most part.
I chose the carjoying unit shown in this topic because I thought it was the best choice of front panel design(no dvd slot to waste screen space, at least one knob and not all touch(yuck), etc)... to fit in my standard double din auto.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...oying-rk3188-rk3066-2-din-head-units-t3193170
nixfu said:
{snip}
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the response
nixfu said:
>community-supported ROMs
Yes, most of us are using the custom ROMs made by Malaysk.
>2GB RAM is highly desired.
They are all 1GB devices and use nearly the same integrated CPU/RAM chipsets right now. I am pretty sure that we will see 2GB devices eventually but all of them right now are 1GB. But frankly for everything you need to do on these units 1GB is fine, just like it is for most android tablets. And the quad core devices are very responsive and snappy, going from dual core to quad core makes more of a performance difference in experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Newsmy units (NU3001, NU5002, etc) have 2GB of RAM and we were able to get the source for one of the ROM versions and developed a custom ROM from the source
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...4-4-2-kitkat-head-unit-newsmy-carpad-t2865525
Are there any units that have two camera inputs for rear and front camera?
So I finally found a car ... ended up buying a 2006 Toyota Sienna Limited with less than 50K miules (insert long rant about flying across country to pick up a 2013 Rav4 only to find the dealer mis-advertised and accepted payment for the wrong trim level).
After a lot of contemplation, and realizing I want to be able to do a mirrored set up in my camper-van (a giant E350 diesel) ... I've changed gears and am sifting through how-to's on doing a 7" tablet with a plain amp, joyconn controller for the steering wheel controls, and magnetic mounts so that I can swap my tablet from 1 vehicle to another.
But thanks for all of the input on my newbie questions.
I think I'm actually taking on a significantly harder project if I'm really going to do it right ... but being able to take my tablet with me and put it in 2 different vehicles (maybe 3 if my wife decides to let me do the same rigging to her Rogue) along with keeping up with latest versions of Android will keep me happier in the long run.
HOWEVER, this is the spot I could still be convinced on ... does anyone know of a hot-swappable double din system? If I could yank the whole thing out I might go back to a full headend and just not worry about carrying it around outside of those 2 vehicles. I did some searching but I'm guessing due to the added size required for rail hardware this probably doesn't exist.
Great questions and fantastic answers. Thank you!
Hi,
It is really exciting that we are starting to get some real android car stereos on the market, that have software in them that can be entertained by the developers here on XDA. There are so many headunits that look the same with different hardware, look different with similar hardware, and are just altogether different. I can't find definitive information anywhere, and frankly search just returns too much scattered information to really sift through.
Needs:
Hands free quality is important.
hardware volume control - prefer a knob, but buttons are ok. I just do not want software volume buttons.
Rooted Android
3 sets of 4+ volt preouts, including controllable non-fading subwoofer preout
I don't care about a DVD/CD player - if it has one cool, but I don't need one.
What I'd like it to do:
"OK Google"
Tasker
Google Maps
Pandora
Spotify
Sirius/XM app - or Sirius satellite radio (I don't know if any of them do this natively)
Vevo
Kodi
Netflix
Hulu
Amazon Prime
Torque connected via bluetooth
bluetooth hands-free phone calls
WIFI tethered from Foxfi running on my phone
Am I looking for too much or is there a head unit that looks like it can accommodate this?
Summary Questions:
Other than price, is there any reason to consider the dual core (instead of the quad core) or the smaller resolution (i.e. are there some apps that don't work right with the larger resolution)?
Are some MCUs better than others?
Do all of the better Android head units suffer the problems with the microphone that will require modification to fix, or is there one out that has the fix already implemented? I saw the threads where people are desoldering stuff. Has that been resolved by some of the manufacturers, or am I destined to do that mod also?
Is there a really good aftermarket hands free microphone that is worth buying?
Is there sub pre-out control either on the stock firmware, or on a different ROM?
Is the sub pre-out affected by the fader?
What is the voltage at the pre-outs?
Do any of the units come with an IR sensor and/or a remote control?
Can I connect the bluetooth OBDII module, bluetooth phone, and wireless wifi tethering from the phone at the same time?
When text messages come into my cell phone, does the radio read them to me? Can I voice-to-text respond?
Does anyone see anything wrong with my needs, or the apps I plan to run?
Are any of them running newer iterations of Android? Is there anything stopping a developer from releasing a ROM with a newer android?
Should I be considering another unit? Is there an Android head unit other than one of the Hue Fei clones that would serve my needs better? Is there one Hue Fei clones that stands out as better than the others, or gets better support than the others, or that fits my needs better?
So it looks like the other two to consider other than the Hue Fei clones is the Newsmy which only has 1 RCA Pre-out and the Ownice which doesn't have root.
there is a new generation of AN-21U unbranded units floating around ali express. If you shop around you can get a good deal on one. Quad core R16 A9/1 GB RAM/up to 1080x600 res. There is little info on them so far since they are so new, but since they appear to be an update to a very popular pre-existing model, they should gain more support soon on xda.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...nd-generation-4-4-2-android-21u-ouku-t3230587
I have one coming in today and will update that thread with my impressions. I previously owned a carjoying UQ-124 so I will have a good unit to compare it to.
The carjoying unit was pretty solid but had one major issue - BT audio quality. The audio also was controlled by the MCU (poorly) which required a complex hardware mod to rectify. I also for some reason had stability issues w/ google now voice control (ok google)... worked sometimes but would crash >50% of the time.
I am hoping my new unit will not have these issues.
gijosh28 said:
So it looks like the other two to consider other than the Hue Fei clones is the Newsmy which only has 1 RCA Pre-out and the Ownice which doesn't have root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Newsmy CarPad III (NRXXXX) has 5.1 pre-out available and uses the same MCU and ROM as the CarPad II (NUXXXX)
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/indashnet-world-s-first-open-source-infotainment/x/5292434#/story
This guy has been pretty responsive with his first 2 designs and now he's putting out an octa-core unit. Probably overkill but the indiegogo price is right. I don't know what his projected delivery dates are for this unit. You can check out his google+ page as well. That is his primary avenue for support and it seems to mostly work pretty well.
Hope i could provide some information. Please check the comments in quote.
gijosh28 said:
Hi,
It is really exciting that we are starting to get some real android car stereos on the market, that have software in them that can be entertained by the developers here on XDA. There are so many headunits that look the same with different hardware, look different with similar hardware, and are just altogether different. I can't find definitive information anywhere, and frankly search just returns too much scattered information to really sift through.
Needs:
Hands free quality is important.
hardware volume control - prefer a knob, but buttons are ok. I just do not want software volume buttons.
Rooted Android
3 sets of 4+ volt preouts, including controllable non-fading subwoofer preout
I don't care about a DVD/CD player - if it has one cool, but I don't need one.
What I'd like it to do:
"OK Google"
Tasker
Google Maps
Pandora
Spotify
Sirius/XM app - or Sirius satellite radio (I don't know if any of them do this natively)
Vevo
Kodi
Netflix
Hulu
Amazon Prime
Torque connected via bluetooth
bluetooth hands-free phone calls
WIFI tethered from Foxfi running on my phone
Am I looking for too much or is there a head unit that looks like it can accommodate this?
Summary Questions:
Other than price, is there any reason to consider the dual core (instead of the quad core) or the smaller resolution (i.e. are there some apps that don't work right with the larger resolution)?
Think mobile phone. it is similar.
Are some MCUs better than others?
What MCU done is about more low level works like power management. really depends on design. No base for comparing.
Do all of the better Android head units suffer the problems with the microphone that will require modification to fix, or is there one out that has the fix already implemented? I saw the threads where people are desoldering stuff. Has that been resolved by some of the manufacturers, or am I destined to do that mod also?
Most have mic built-in(in the panel), some have external connector which provide a chance to apply a good mic.
Is there a really good aftermarket hands free microphone that is worth buying?
No idea.
Is there sub pre-out control either on the stock firmware, or on a different ROM?
It is not about software/ROM/firmeware. this is by hardware design.
Is the sub pre-out affected by the fader?
Normally.
What is the voltage at the pre-outs?
depends on hardware design.
Do any of the units come with an IR sensor and/or a remote control?
Many.
Can I connect the bluetooth OBDII module, bluetooth phone, and wireless wifi tethering from the phone at the same time?
Wifi/BT same time for all head unit. BT OBD and BT Phone call together, it depends.
When text messages come into my cell phone, does the radio read them to me? Can I voice-to-text respond?
This could be done by one App which is not related to Head unit. don't know whether it exists already.
Does anyone see anything wrong with my needs, or the apps I plan to run?
could say no barrier. Need to check hardware related items.
Are any of them running newer iterations of Android? Is there anything stopping a developer from releasing a ROM with a newer android?
Lots of work is needed to port system to a newer version android. Similar as mobile phone.
Should I be considering another unit? Is there an Android head unit other than one of the Hue Fei clones that would serve my needs better? Is there one Hue Fei clones that stands out as better than the others, or gets better support than the others, or that fits my needs better?
no answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I posted my thoughts on the 2nd gen AN-21U vs joying UQ-124 here -
http://forum.xda-developers.com/and...eration-4-4-2-android-21u-ouku-t3230587/page3
summary - new unit is better than joying in every way except for customization and xda support. I have not applied an external amp or sub to my system yet, but I will soon. I am already using custom speakers (focal 8"). BT audio quality is night and day difference over joying. Bad BT audio quality is not universal, joying just did a poor job b/c they wired internal & external mic in parallel & used low quality bt module. I highly recommend it, though I have only had a short time with it (less than a day). My thoughts may change as I get more time to find issues.
@nonstop2050, I like how active you are here, I would have loved to buy one of your units had you supported my vehicle. If someone were to buy how long would you take to ship? I had to wait 3 weeks for my unit... I think they manufacture units as the orders come in, they don't keep stock on hand.
The joying units with a single volume knob allow you to adjust the pre out voltage. I have mine feeding into a 4 channel amp, powering front hertz components and a single JBL sub. I use the crossover on the amplifier - more scope for adjustability & probably performs more consistently than the one in the headunit feeding the sub pre out.
Pyle has recently released a few head units running 4.4.4 Kitkat. From the Amazon description:
Android OS Computer:
Touchscreen 'Tablet-Style' Functionality
Smart Device MirrorLink/AirPlay Support
Processor: Quad Core 1.6 Ghz Cortex A9
OS Version: Android 4.4.4 (KitKat)
It also indicates "Unlock Tablet-Style functionality." I'm assuming this means it comes rooted.
While Pyle is not known as the paragon of quality, they appear to be the first brand with a US presence offering an Android HU. Since their other HUs appear to follow the US DIN standard these could have the advantage of fitting in one of the readily available dash kits.
Here are the two I found on Amazon:
[amazon dot com]/dp/B01BECUOTE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=S75ZYKYU5U3C&coliid=I25LAEC05MZLFW
[amazon dot com]/Pyle-PLDNAND621-Touchscreen-Navigation-Bluetooth/dp/B01BECUKD4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_422_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51uMnRpESgL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=1A4EM6W90HKY19XFNMQA_
how much RAM? I wonder where/how it was engineered? The biggest issue w/ these chinese HUs is the poor engineering standards. One of the biggest examples being the internal/external mic wired in parallel on joying/pumpkin HUs. This issue has been around for well over a year now, and despite pumping out new models they still haven't fixed this glaring issue.
To add to that, the whole MCU concept, and the fact that the BT is effectively de-coupled from the core system.
What I'd gladly pay $500 or so for (possibly more) -
- high quality DAC/pre-outs
- no MCU
- parrot BT FULLY INTEGRATED into the OS
- proper internal/external mic interaction
- octacore
- 2GB RAM
- android 5.0. Honestly not that big of a deal if the OS is stable and runs all the standard apps
- fully mappable/customizeable hotkeys for launching custom apps from SWC/physical buttons
That would be nice. I'd sacrifice my car custom plug & play HU with a standard double din w/ those features in a heartbeat. The glaring engineering flaws in all of these current android HUs is frustrating. But I live w/ it b/c it's still a nice upgrade over stock.
Hisma said:
how much RAM? I wonder where/how it was engineered? The biggest issue w/ these chinese HUs is the poor engineering standards. One of the biggest examples being the internal/external mic wired in parallel on joying/pumpkin HUs. This issue has been around for well over a year now, and despite pumping out new models they still haven't fixed this glaring issue.
To add to that, the whole MCU concept, and the fact that the BT is effectively de-coupled from the core system.
What I'd gladly pay $500 or so for (possibly more) -
- high quality DAC/pre-outs
- no MCU
- parrot BT FULLY INTEGRATED into the OS
- proper internal/external mic interaction
- octacore
- 2GB RAM
- android 5.0. Honestly not that big of a deal if the OS is stable and runs all the standard apps
- fully mappable/customizeable hotkeys for launching custom apps from SWC/physical buttons
That would be nice. I'd sacrifice my car custom plug & play HU with a standard double din w/ those features in a heartbeat. The glaring engineering flaws in all of these current android HUs is frustrating. But I live w/ it b/c it's still a nice upgrade over stock.
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Click to collapse
Closest I've seen is the in-dash.net unit which is octacore with android 5.1 coming sometime this year, (allegedly). The MCU issue is unfortunately unavoidable at least until Google adds native bluetooth HFP into AOSP, which isn't likely to happen. And even then you still need something to be the go-between control of the amplifiers, LCD brightness control, etc.
I have the octacore in-dash.net unit and it's pretty good. My biggest beef is with the bluetooth handling. The interface is fairly basic. I think one thing that these units need is their own 'contacts' and 'dialer' apps that can dial via the bluetooth service but that also interacts with my google contacts, google maps, phone links, etc so that I don't have to do the contacts sharing, or copy and paste phone numbers from web searches or maps searches. I've got the feeling that that is easier said than done but it is key in my mind.
This is my first android HU so I'm not super familiar with the mic issues that seem to plague them. My external mic seems to just be really quiet pickup. I was thinking of getting a little pre-amp for it to put in between the plug and the HU. Perhaps I should do some more research first?
I have just been using the built in amp so far. Was thinking about testing the pre-outs on this unit. I suppose I could just break it down and take a look at the components to see if I can determine what DAC is being used.
Oh, also I don't have SWC in my car but this unit is setup for them. Not sure the physical interface specifically as I didn't purchase that option but the mapping is all in the "vehicle interface settings" app on the unit.
Not all of these head units have the mic problem. But joying & pumpkin, which are two of the most popular models, do have this problem. I used to have a joying, now I have a 2nd gen AN-21U, and it doesn't have the mic problem.
Yes the ability to fully integrate our phones with google now via the HU would be perfect. Google now has all my contacts as I have an android phone and save my contacts to google. But trying to call a number this way goes nowhere. Really a way to make the whole experience as hands free as possible would be great. Ford has sync, mazda has gracenote, and there are others I'm sure that attempt to implement a fully hands free system.
Other users have already examined the DAC in these units. One made an audio mod that integrates the DAC directly with the unit instead of passing it through the MCU, which significantly improves the unit's audio capabilities. It's just another example of the head sctatching engineering decisions on these things.
more info here - http://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/mtcb-hardware-development/mtc-sound-controlling-bd37xxx-sound-t3234660
Btw I am not sure if there is a universal pre-out configuration for these, but my AN-21U has 1V unshielded pre-outs. Pretty frustrating. I get some "white noise" in the background when I up the volume thanks to the high noise floor. Considering putting in some high quality RCA cables to see if that helps, but obviously if the pre-out voltage was higher this would be less of an issue.
Pyle PLDNAND621
I 've bought and been using one of these for about a week now and had a couple questions for you guys. This radio seems to have an app for controlling the Bluetooth function and is not controlled within the settings menus. Do you think think the app could be changed as a Bluetooth obd2 module I use with other Android device works fine with the same car. I have the same question for the radio tuner app, I don't like the layout and it won't tell me the song titles . I search but can't find a "local station" radio tuner app.
Thanks for any ideas, Doug
I've got it and rooted it on 4.4.4 su etc ...flash fire enabled.....anyone point me to someone that could walk me thru dumping the rom on this unit and someone that can then make a custom recovery we would be in the game for this unit ..it has a recovery ..all I can say for right now .....v4a apk will not work on this unit due to some busy box error I cant stop ..I have it correct in the system ....so we need custom.rom.for it .....any one still wanna rip this thing?
lokisyn said:
I've got it and rooted it on 4.4.4 su etc ...flash fire enabled.....anyone point me to someone that could walk me thru dumping the rom on this unit and someone that can then make a custom recovery we would be in the game for this unit ..it has a recovery ..all I can say for right now .....v4a apk will not work on this unit due to some busy box error I cant stop ..I have it correct in the system ....so we need custom.rom.for it .....any one still wanna rip this thing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please help. I upgraded my PYLE PLDNANDVR 695 and lost bluetooth. Pyle wants me to send it in for repair. I much rather fixing this myself.
GrowlAudio have a model specific version for my car (growlaudio.com/nissan-navara) but finding real specs on it seems to be next to impossible.
All the suppliers have been able to tell me:
The units are not upgradable as in OS updates. OS 4.4 is the most stable of the OS available. Yes you can see other units with OS 5 and 6 available from china at a cheaper price but there is a known fault with them that they are unstable and crash a lot.
Price includes Growl unit with built in fascia, all cables and adapters needed for install, GPS antenna and free reverse camera.
Android Head Unit:
OS: Android 4.4
CPU: Quad Core Processor
RAM: DDR3 1Gb
ROM: 8G EMMC
SD: Built - In 16GB
Capable of reading 1TB external Drive
Mobile Connectivity : iOS and Android Devices
VIDEO: RMVB,MKV,MOV,WMV,AVI,MPG
AUDIO: MP3,WMA,WAV,OGG,FLAC
GPS MODULE: Support
GPS Navigation software: Sygic, Waze and other android compatible maps. Capable on connecting to WiFi via Mobile Hotspot or wifi connectivity
Bluetooth Audio and Handsfree Calls: Supported
Steering Wheel controls: Supported
Rear view video: Automatic Backup Camera turn on when reversing
Other users that have purchased and installed the unit seem to think it's the best thing ever, but every video I can find of it is slow to startup (30-40 sec), reverse camera not coming on till full boot. And no one I talk to is able to provide any details on audio quality.
What I am looking for in a HeadUnit:
Required:
* Reverse camera capable of being used within a few seconds of ignition
* Bluetooth hands free with iPhone compatibility
* Music streaming from either iPhone or USB / Flash storage
* Google Maps / GPS compatible
* 3G/4G sim/USB Dongle compatible
* Steering Wheel Control support (CANBUS)
* Audio quality at least equal to or better than stock
* Responsive screen / controls
Optional / Extras
* Multiple camera support
* Side-by-side picture
* Able to connect to iPhone Bluetooth, Internet, OBD Reader/Torque, TPMS at the same time, or at least without having to go into settings and change connected device
Does anyone have any suggestions of a suitable HU?
I've been digging for info on these, reading Amazon reviews, reading threads here, reading marketing on the mfr/reseller websites and was contemplating starting a thread for this. In lieu of starting another thread I figure to just contribute on yours. It all started not long ago when I finally installed a 2-year-sitting-in-closet Pioneer Appradio 3... what a piece of junk!!! (but it does sound good)
Is anyone comparing the pros/cons of these things? It's pretty difficult to compile information on them when there are a ton of brands nobody has heard of combined with new hardware/software coming out all the time. From what I've read there are a few major dealbreakers that make me want to wait, after all who wants to swap their head unit out on any regular basis?
I head not heard about sticking to 4.4, why are 5.1 and 6.0 not good? I read somewhere they aren't as snappy but in any video I've seen they look fine.
I'll put my lists here and maybe others can chime in with what they want/like/dislike so we can paint a bigger picture for these head units.
Here are all the things that make me hesitant to buy one of these right now:
Dealbreakers for me:
No hands-free voice control for things like Android Auto, Google Now, Google Maps, Calling... "OK Google"
Boot times any more than 5 seconds.
Lack of external microphone - I know I can add one but geez is it too much to ask for a jack?
(some may have) independent volume for media/nav/phone/etc
Cons:
No ability to USB tether to use phone's internet connection (someone's probably done this here)
Seemingly weak future update support
Problems that can be handled with apps and mods:
No light sensor for auto dimming
speed dependent master volume change
Here's what I would put on a wishlist:
Must haves:
fast boot time (<5-10 seconds)
voice control
external microphone (or jack so can add)
option resume playing last thing on startup (car start)
Independant volume for Media/nav/phone/etc
Good audio quality
Like to have:
permanent button for Nav app
headlight or auto dimming
speed dependent volume
DVR support for dashcam AND reverse camera input
USB tethering option for data connection
ability to work with aftermarket bluetooth steering wheel remote
full Android Auto support with voice commands
ability to update in the future
Bluetooth 5 with internet connection sharing would be nice (IPSP)
The Newsmy Carpad 4 has some things I love: 4G SIM card capable, 2 camera DVR with ability to act as a car security system and send alerts to your phone, but it costs way too much and will surely come down like every tech does in the near future.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71220653&postcount=24
https://de.aliexpress.com/store/pro...32789646411.html?spm=2114.12010608.0.0.Qi1q42
Also looks like the Onwice C500 has 4G SIM card slot
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/android-head-units/ownice-c500-released-t3478747
http://www.gearbest.com/car-dvd-player/pp_597322.html
Joying has nice stuff and I've seen reviews that describe their low-power "dormant" mode that keeps the unit ready for a zero-delay startup even after the car is parked for a day (some units seem to only have a short dormant period before they shut down)... dormant time would of course be all dependent on how much power they draw whilst dormant.
ATOTO claim they can handle voice commands: http://www.myatoto.com/index.php?m=content&c=index&a=show&catid=15&id=5
This is just the tip of the iceberg, I know. I can never seem to find one that does everything I/we all want, and that means time to wait. Anyone compiled up-to-date info so we can make an informed decision?
RedbeardPete said:
Dealbreakers for me:
Boot times any more than 5 seconds.
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Click to collapse
From what I've been able to read, you will not get this in any pure Android head unit. Its simply not possible. Do you know Android phone/tablet that is capable of powering on in less than 5 sec?
Sure they can all 'wake' in that time frame, but that's because they are running from a battery. Yes the car has a battery, but the constant drain from the head unit being in sleep mode will likely flatten the battery if the car is not started in 3-5 days.
Your demands list is something more inline with an Alpine/Kenwood/Non-PureAndroid head unit.
The fairly new Joying Intel Sofia Head Units do go into a deep sleep and only draw about 10 mAh once the vehicle has been shut off for five minutes or so. To clarify, my JY-UL134N2 unit only takes a second or two to start up after being off for days, and it begins playing music from the Sandisk 200GB micro sdxc card in a few seconds. It will also display the reverse camera instantly like the older rk3066 and rk3188 units. Please note that this HU is in a spare vehicle that only gets used every few days or on weekends, and the battery drain has not been an issue at all. Please also note that if the system is shut down completely (not in dormancy mode), the boot time is 15 seconds to a minute depending on how loaded up the system is with apps etc...
Anyway, regardless of the start up time, I doubt you will find any Chinese Android Head Units that will check all or even most of the boxes on your wish list out of the box. To date, they all appear to need software and or hardware mods in order to work half way decent and even then they are far from perfect. For sound quality, Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, or Sony would be far better out of box. The bottom line is that for the cost, the Chinese Android Head Units can be fun to tinker with and decent with work, but you get what you pay for when it comes to sound quality (IMHO).
Best of luck,
R
rhacy said:
The fairly new Joying Intel Sofia Head Units do go into a deep sleep and only draw about 10 mAh once the vehicle has been shut off for five minutes or so. To clarify, my JY-UL134N2 unit only takes a second or two to start up after being off for days, and it begins playing music from the Sandisk 200GB micro sdxc card in a few seconds. It will also display the reverse camera instantly like the older rk3066 and rk3188 units. Please note that this HU is in a spare vehicle that only gets used every few days or on weekends, and the battery drain has not been an issue at all. Please also note that if the system is shut down completely (not in dormancy mode), the boot time is 15 seconds to a minute depending on how loaded up the system is with apps etc...
Anyway, regardless of the start up time, I doubt you will find any Chinese Android Head Units that will check all or even most of the boxes on your wish list out of the box. To date, they all appear to need software and or hardware mods in order to work half way decent and even then they are far from perfect. For sound quality, Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, or Sony would be far better out of box. The bottom line is that for the cost, the Chinese Android Head Units can be fun to tinker with and decent with work, but you get what you pay for when it comes to sound quality (IMHO).
Best of luck,
R
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I'm looking for! How do you find the HU? Would you recommend it to aynone?
Google for Joying, they have a fairly decent website. I definitely noticed that feature mentioned and demonstrated in some YouTube videos of newer Joying units and seems like a winner... Boot time is my biggest gripe (without having ever owned one of these). I'm not sure of the downsides for Joying units although I think they don't have external mic jack, will look into that and report back.
I should have been more specific, a usable dormant fast-boot mode that can do 24 hours before shutdown/draining top much battery would be totally usable... That way the daily driver fires up the head unit right away.
So what head unit do you guys think checks off the most boxes for you?
I found this site from a comment on a youtube video where I was researching options for getting a head unit that is better than Toyota included for my Toyota Highlander Limited Hybrid. I'm sorry for the length of this post but I spent hours reading and watching youtube and I think I'm on right path, but I feel like I just need a little validation...
For reference, I'm an Apple mobile and tablet user but I owned a Samsung phone for about 3 months so I know what an Android launcher and the marketplace is. I know there are stores for hacked products, but I ended up with ads all over that phone so I prefer not to go that route. I'm not a big tinkerer - once I get something set where I want it, I won't usually change the settings unless I find a need.
I think my post will give you a good idea about what level of knowledge I have - at least you know I tried. If there is highlander or hybrid specific feedback I'm overlooking somewhere, please let me know. If I'm missing something key to decide between systems let me know.
1. When I look at the forum categories, they are broken up into terms I'm not familiar with. I believe FYT Android is where I need to focus because I see references to the units I'm researching there. But I don't understand why they are considered FYT.
2. I'm trying to stay in the $500 range and get something that works well enough that I'll use it for more than just the radio - without breaking functionality but the canbus thing is new to me. I get the concept - my car's personal IoT/LAN. But does the dash operate independently of the headunit? I sort of feel like somethings will be independent and others will not. For example, I suspect the dash display will know my speed, trip miles, direction (compass), when I need an oil change. But I feel like the option for the radio is fed from the head unit. I feel like anything that appears on my dash when I'm using the GPS (like turn next left) is fed from the head unit. Is that correct? If yes, do those functions usually stop displaying on the dash with a replacement head unit?
3. I have buttons on the dash for different features on the car. I suspect most of those work independently of head unit - like the mirror heaters. But what about accident avoidance features? Those tend to display on my dash - are those possibly affected by a different head unit? And I have a button so I can turn on 360 video - I mainly use it to see how close I am to the car in front of me when parking in a tight space. I suspect that button will work with any head unit that has front camera and/or 360 degree integration.
4. From my research, I have been focusing on units that are 4 GB/64 GB although it sounds like 2 GB/32 GB would work just fine as long as I don't store over 32 GB of apps and data.
5. Items that don't differentiate: I expect these options to be the same result across all units. Please let me know if you know differently.
-Apple car play - All have it & should function exactly the same. (I don't need android phone integration but I know this does differ on units)
-Phone call integration - looks like all use same default android app. I am very interested in how clarity of calls might differ, but I think all are using same default android function and all are able to use an included external microphone.
-Toyota OEM microphone integration - it's unclear if any will integrate with existing Toyota mic but I suspect this won't yield a result I'm happy with in either case.
- Toyota speaker button on wheel control - I think this button fails to work on every integration. I would like this to work but even the Toyota system is so unreliable I don't use it.
- Marketplace apps - All should integrate with marketplace apps exactly the same.
6. So here is my list of options I came up with in order of most likely to least. Is there another brand I should research...
- Teyes CC3 (for highlander 2015-18) - It looks like it matches integration with the best out there. I don't care about the "Porsche simulator", but it still looks like the easiest to use launcher on the market & they are actively updating it. I cannot find the same level of highlander specific details I find on the SYGAV, but reviews seem overwhelmingly positive so I suspect it'll work just as well. My concern is that I have to order directly from alibaba and wait a month to receive and they seem to send wrong parts. I haven't used alibaba but it looks like the customs costs are included in the price of $435 (364+70.76). Does anyone know if this is accurate or if there are other fees? The main complaint I hear with this unit is that it is locked down, but I think that means for adding launchers and the like that I am not interested in.
- SYGAV (for highlander 2015-18) - I don't really love the user interface on this one. But this one is the one I have found most highlander related data on and it gives me some comfort I might have less issues getting it to work. I can find nothing close to this level of detail on the other brands about highlander installs.. I have read user responses that Carplay & android auto require no additional parts to install, 360 degree camera works as well as front camera view, Hybrid info displays. For the camera inputs, it sounds like I can use my OEM cameras but I may need a camera cable adapter (unclear if included in package). One user stated that to get it to work in a highlander, I need to get the Motorola 1 M 2 F & GM adapter to Motorola (for reception). One user states that they have TPMS working, but it's unclear if they connected to the TPMS already in tires or if they had to buy separate TPMS tire plugs. The main complaint is the GPS mapping if basic IGO.
- Dasaita (for highlander 2015-18) - This brand seems like the next most popular after Joying. It looks like they have 3 launchers they develop and you can install whichever you like best. In regard to the UI, I feel like this brand comes in 2nd after Teyes. But I can't find as detailed user experiences with highlander and which functions work and which do not.
- Joying - I am not actively researching this one but everyone seems to be using this one. I was considering this one but I couldn't locate any highlander option anywhere - not even from their website (joyingauto.eu). That sounds like I'd have to figure out the canbus thing on my own and find the plastic frame to put it in my dash & I don't feel like I'm knowledgeable enough to go that route. I really don't understand why this one is so popular above competition - it is one of the highest priced if I buy from the US markets. Everyone that uses it seems to add a separate launcher which makes me question whether Joying's UI development isn't all that great. I know some others lock down their products so you can't tinker as much. Is that why it's popular - because it isn't locked down? If so, I see similar hardware on cheaper units. It sounds like the UI development/support/upgrades is quite a bit of what one is paying for when buying these.
7. Maps - this is one of my major complaints from my Toyota unit . I do not see anything that makes me feel that the maps included with ANY of the units are any better. Most seem to use IGO GPS which seems to get the same complaints I have when using my GPS. I believe the only solution is a unit that includes apple car play. Or am I overlooking any with better mapping functions?
8. JBL audio - I know I have the JBL system in my car and on regular car head units this seems to make a difference with integration, but from my list above, I can't find anything to indicate that any will not work with the JBL system. I'm assuming it is because the car based units have hardware incompatibilities that android based do not, but it's really unclear to me. Can someone provide clarification? On the SYGAV unit, I read a review that it needs an amp to sound as good as an OEM unit, but I think that would apply to all of these units equally. In either case the Toyota JBL system has an AMP under my center console. I can't find this level of integration information but I think all units will connect to the amp.
9. 12 speakers - I feel like this will determine which system is best if I can figure it out... The JBL audio has 12 speakers (one of which is a subwoofer) in 10 locations in the highlander. I can't locate specific details on any of these if anyone gets all the speakers to connect successfully. I did see that one of these brands have 5.1 outputs but I don't really know what I need to be looking for in descriptions to figure this out on each unit. Any suggestions how to figure this out.
10. Video playback - All of these support video playback but it sounds like auto carplay may block mirroring while the car is actively moving. Is the behavior going to be the same across all units? I sort of feel like this is something that works differently across different brands, but I can't find details to figure out which allow video playback when car is moving.
11. Hybrid integration - SYGAV is the only unit I've seen where someone has hybrid info working on a highlander, but I feel like all the systems may work very similarly. I believe the dash display will work independent of the head unit so I can always switch the dash display when I want to see what the hybrid system is doing. I think another brand states it has hybrid integration but I couldn't find any responses where someone had it working successfully.
12. Daytime/Night time modes - I need to validate across all, but I know multiple have tried to integrate this. I do not think any have integrated without a bug. I feel like the ones that are likely to get this right first are Teyes and Dasaita since they are actively developing their UIs. Since these are all android based, I feel like all will have an android setting to dim the display even though the color scheme may not change.
I'm really leaning toward the Teyes because if I imagine myself driving, it looks like the easiest interface to use and they are actively developing. When looking at default display, it looks like the most 'modern' design also.
In case someone else reads this thread trying to figure all this stuff out, XM and HD radio integration may differentiate these units also. I know it doesn't work on some but I don't use either of those so it isn't important to me.
I'm mainly responding to my own post in case someone else is considering a T'eyes unit. I purchased one and I highly under estimated what is involved with getting these units to work. The T'eyes cc3 in my car may go up for auction - just too much of it is unusable.
Note that if you do not like tweeking your cell phone, you might not like these units to begin with - don't expect they'll just work out of the box. Consider hours if not days to configure these things. Also, look at the back of the units - this one came with a 'Toyota" harness which is a bunch of wires to convert all the cables in the back. And it isn't a single harness of wires - it's multiple bags of cables that you have to pick and choose from. You have extra cables and I'm pretty sure the set is missing cables. My car has 2 cables where I only have one adapter that matches them in all harness wiring. So one is unplugged. I have no idea what each cable from my car is used for. But most of the wires only have a single place they can connect in the primary harness. It's all a confusing mess even though I think I have 90% connected to the correct spots.
Not all units are made this way. There is going to be something converting the cables, but some units have some sort of box on the back that has all the cabling converting done for you - so it looks like the cables from the car attach into the unit directly. After my harness was attached, I did not have cables that match everything coming from the car. I feel like that is why things like my my surround cameras do not work. I also have no back up camera working now. That is a pretty big deal.
Also, car play isn't all I thought it would be. It seems to only mirror Apple written apps to the device. I can install apps onto the unit and connect to my phones hotspot, but the connection is very flaky. Unless you are willing to connect the unit with its own sim card, you may be severely limited. I wanted to be able to stream youtube and such while making a weekly 90 minute drive I make. Well, this just doesn't happen because half the time the unit will not connect to my hotspot. It usually connects within 30 minutes of me driving, but I haven't found a reliable way to get it to connect to the hotspot. Usually I'm driving with my phone playing through my phone speakers because audio streaming won't work with wifi/hotspot.
All in all, I wouldn't purchase this again. If I were going to attempt again, I'd go with one of the models that removes the 'harness' from the equation.