The Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box dongle provides a wireless connection between the smartphone and the infotainment system via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Testing shows whether it works or not.
With Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you no longer have to worry about connecting your smartphone to the infotainment system using a USB or Lightning cable. Instead, the device automatically pairs with the vehicle via Bluetooth and provides the full range of functions of the wired version. However, not all vehicles support this wireless functionality – often not, especially in older models. The Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box dongle provides a solution for users of iPhone and Android smartphones.
Design and scope of delivery
The compact, rectangular form factor with rounded corners is subtle and blends unobtrusively into most vehicle dashboards. With dimensions of 60 × 60 × 13 mm, the device is still easy to store, even though it is larger than some competitors. The connection is USB-C, but cables with USB-C and USB-A plugs are also included in the scope of delivery.
There is a CarPlay logo at the top. This can be confusing for Android users as the adapter supports both systems. The English language instructions provide all the important information, but are concise and, above all, written in small font.
Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box Dongle – Pictures
Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box Dongle
Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box Dongle
Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box Dongle
setup and operation
Installing the adapter is basically simple: it’s plugged into the vehicle’s corresponding USB port using a cable, then you search for the device name using Bluetooth on your iPhone or Android smartphone. smart BoxConnect it and wait for the connection to be established. Then the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay symbol should appear on the infotainment system.
With Android Auto, setup went smoothly in our testing. However, with the iPhone, establishing a connection was more difficult: CarPlay could not be started even after several attempts. This may be because the vehicle was previously primarily used with Android Auto. We’ll test the setup again with the iPhone in other editorial vehicles soon.
The adapter was tested in an Opel Astra K with a Samsung Galaxy S23, Honor Magic V2, and iPhone 12 Pro.
price
The adapter for Android Auto and Apple Carplay is currently priced only on Aliexpress 12 euros,
conclusion
The Mini CarPlay and Android Auto Box dongle scores with easy installation and a discreet design. This is a very inexpensive way to retrofit older vehicles with a wireless connection to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Android users especially benefit from the reliable connection and easy handling.
However, testing also revealed weaknesses: setting it up with an iPhone proved unsuccessful. Brief, hard-to-read instructions can be especially problematic for less tech-savvy users.
Latest Apple rumors: AirPort successor, doorbell and heart rate AirPods
