OttoCast CarPlayClip in the test: Adapter for wireless CarPlay with aroma tree

Wireless CarPlay connects the iPhone to the car’s infotainment system wirelessly. This eliminates the hassle of plugging and unplugging the phone every time you get in, which is especially practical on short trips.

Not all cars support Apple CarPlay Wireless, even if they have CarPlay integrated. Especially for older vehicle models before 2020 or cheaper vehicle equipment, often only a wired version of CarPlay is available. Adapters are a cheaper option for retrofitting.

We tested the Ottocast CarPlayClip model with an unusual design. The adapter is attached to the ventilation grille and also provides a small display. This test shows how it performs.

The Ottocast CarPlay Clip is visually different from a traditional CarPlay adapter. Instead of a simple USB plug or an inconspicuous box, the CarPlayClip uses a small display that can be clipped onto the ventilation grill in the car with a holder.

The display itself can also display images or act as a clock, adding an additional visual component to the cockpit. Optionally, a scent ring can also be attached, upgrading the massive CarPlay clip into a small “scent tree”. This combination of design and functionality is really attractive and will especially appeal to users who want to bring a little more individuality – and more scent – to their vehicle.

Attaching the clip to the ventilation grill is simple and safe. An included clamp ensures that the clip sits firmly and does not slip off. However, the unusual design also has its disadvantages: The cable for the USB port is relatively short, which can be a problem depending on the vehicle structure. Especially if the USB port is located in the center console or away from the dashboard, the cable will be under tension and may limit the location of the adapter.

The OttoCast CarPlayClip is specifically compatible with Apple CarPlay Wireless and is aimed at iPhone users who want to connect their phone to the infotainment system wirelessly. Setup goes largely smoothly: after plugging it into the car’s USB port, the adapter must be paired with the iPhone via Bluetooth, then data transfer is carried out via WLAN.

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A plus point is the stable connection: in testing, the CarPlay integration ran smoothly, with no noticeable delays when using apps, phone calls or navigation. The CarPlayClip’s small display doesn’t offer any in-depth interaction options, but it does show useful information such as the time and can visually enhance the car by displaying images.

What was negative in the test was the position of the clip in cars whose USB ports are not in the immediate vicinity of the ventilation grilles. The short cable can become a tripping hazard and make handling difficult. This was the case with our test car, a 2017 Opel Astra K. The CarPlay clip is not very suitable for this model. Alternatively, you have to stick the clip on the center console. In cars with USB ports in the front of the cockpit, for example on the car radio, you can use the CarPlay clip.

The Clip display is also a bit of a gimmick and doesn’t add any real extra value to using CarPlay. You can also use an app to set what type of picture should be displayed on the CarPlayClip screen and make further settings.

Ottocast’s CarPlayClip only works with Apple CarPlay wireless and is currently available cheap from the manufacturer. With code ts20 it costs 55 Euros,

The Ottocast CarPlayClip is a stylish and functional solution for Apple CarPlay wireless, which particularly scores points with its unusual design. The small display and optional scent function make the adapter an eye-catcher in the vehicle, even if these features are purely aesthetic in nature. The wireless CarPlay integration works reliably, but the short USB cable can be a hindrance in some vehicles.

For users looking for a visual upgrade for their cockpit and willing to pay a little more for an unusual design, the Ottocast CarPlayClip is an interesting option. However, if you are looking for a simple and functional solution with no frills, you will find comparable options in the top 5: best wireless CarPlay adapters for iPhone in the test.