Drivers of older vehicles can repurpose an old Android tablet as a DIY Android Auto head unit, providing a glanceable, distraction-free display for navigation and communication without the need for an expensive hardware replacement. According to Yahoo, using an old device is the most affordable method for adding these capabilities to a car, with total costs potentially remaining under $20 when accounting for an affordable app and a device mount.
The Software Solution: Headunit Revived
To transform a tablet into a receiver similar to a modern car’s built-in dashboard display, users can utilize an open-source app called Headunit Revived. As reported by BGR, this app is compatible with both Android phones and tablets, provided the device is updated to at least Android 4.1. Once installed, the app allows the tablet to act as the receiver for an Android phone, granting access to essential tools such as Google Maps, Spotify, Google Calendar, and Facebook Messenger.
The setup process involves several configuration steps within the app:
- Granting permissions for audio recording and location.
- Selecting the tablet’s screen size and orientation.
- Applying optimization settings to the Android Auto layout.
BGR notes that while the app supports different orientations, landscape is the default for regular head units; the developer has indicated that portrait mode may cause issues specifically with Google Maps. Users can further customize the experience through settings that enable right-hand drive, adjust UI scaling, change screen resolution, and configure auto dark mode or automation triggers.
Connecting Phones to the Tablet
Once the tablet is configured, users must pair their current Android phone to the receiver. According to BGR, there are two primary connection methods: wireless and wired. Wired connections are described as generally more reliable and easier to set up.
To establish a wired connection, the phone must be linked to the tablet via a USB cable. Users should open the USB notification on the phone, select “This device” under USB controlled by,
and set the “Use USB for” option to Transferring files/Android Auto.
After these steps, the user launches Headunit Revived on the tablet and taps “USB.” Additionally, the installation of an app called WiFi Helper on the phone is required for the process. Yahoo confirms that this setup allows the phone to remain in the user’s pocket while the tablet serves as the music, call, and text hub.
Comparing DIY Methods to Commercial Alternatives
While the DIY tablet approach is the most budget-friendly, other options exist for updating aging vehicles. Yahoo highlights the use of wireless screens that mount on top of the dashboard, which require no wiring beyond a power source like a cigarette lighter. These 7-inch screens can often be found for under $50.
For those seeking a more permanent integration, full head unit replacements are available. T3 identifies the Sony XAV-AX4050 as a top option, featuring a 6.95-inch screen and wireless Android Auto capabilities. Unlike the DIY tablet method, these commercial units can integrate with existing vehicle technology, such as steering wheel-mounted controls, DAB radio, and rear-view cameras. However, such installations are described by Yahoo as being more involved and expensive than using a repurposed device.
