android auto – Retro Tech Drives

“Blending Vintage and Modern: A Comprehensive Review of the Upgraded Westods Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto for Retro Cars”

technotom — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 07:51:37 +0000

Westods Wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto Review

Being firm believers in driving in style without sacrificing the wonders of modern technology, we recently tested the “Westods Wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto”. With its promise of perfectly marrying retro and modern, this piece of tech has proven itself to be a phenomenal companion for the enthusiastic retro car driver.

Features

This all-encompassing, multi-functional device offers both wireless Carplay and Android Auto capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, amongst a plethora of other amenities. Equipped with front 2.5K and rear 1080P cameras, it promises crystal clear visuals of the road for more precise reversing and safer journeys.

One of its defining features is the 7″ HD IPS screen which delivers vivid imagery and accessible touchscreen control. With an impressive 1024×600 resolution, it ensures top-notch quality for video playback and GPS navigation.

It also offers a range of audio output options, a much appreciated nod to flexibility. Furthermore, it comes with a 64GB Micro SD card, replacing the hassle of having to procure one separately. The device is designed to be incredibly user-friendly with its easy installation process, allowing you to avoid any complications with the central control.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The device consistently delivers on its promise of striking visuals and seamless touchscreen control. The crystal-clear quality of the front and rear cameras is unprecedented in a portable unit, providing a clear view for safer reversing and parking. The system is snappy, reliable, and incredibly useful.

When it comes to installation, it doesn’t pose any daunting challenges, with the user-friendly design making it a plug-and-play experience. The added touch of customizable startup logos was appreciated, as was the incredibly responsive support from Westods.

The Wireless Carplay and Android Auto functionalities give users a wire-free experience, reducing the clutter while driving. With both Carplay and Android Auto active, the system loads quickly and operates without any hitches, providing a smooth and convenient utilization. Additionally, the overall quality of the unit, as well as the backup camera, remains consistent, adding a level of reliability highly sought-after in aftermarket tech.

Cons

Despite its many pros, we have noticed a few cons worth mentioning. It takes a little too long for the system to start up with wireless Carplay. Although the backup camera’s cord length was satisfactory for standard cars, it falls drastically short for larger vehicles, which would necessitate acquiring an extension. Furthermore, the system seems to drain the battery quickly when left on overnight, particularly for cars with constantly powered 12v sockets.

We found problems with the screen mirroring function, specifically for Android users. The need to download a questionable program was concerning, to say the least, and the feature seemed operative only for Apple devices. Last but not least, the device’s screen doesn’t switch from Day to Night mode automatically, obstructing the navigation experience, especially for Android users. Although the attentive service from Westods’ tech support tried to solve these issues, there is a need for a more comprehensive in-built resolution.

Final Thoughts

All things considered, the “Upgraded Westods Wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto with 2.5K Dash Cam, 1080P Backup Camera, Portable 7″ HD IPS Screen for Car” exceeds expectations in many fronts, offering a modern yet user-friendly driving experience suitable even for retro car enthusiasts. It’s an excellent investment for those in need of a full-featured, high-quality infotainment system that isn’t tied down by pesky wires. Keep aware of a few downsides, however, such as screen mirroring issues and potential battery drain if left powered overnight. We’d recommend prospective buyers to weigh these factors in their decision-making process.

Before we wrap up, please note that the links provided in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows us to continue to bring you quality content like this.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

“Revamping Retro Rides: A Review of the Podofo Portable Car Stereo Wireless Apple Carplay Android Auto”

Review Team — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 00:02:57 +0000

Product Review: Podofo Portable Car Stereo Wireless Apple Carplay Android Auto

Our team of tech enthusiasts at Retro Tech Drives has had the joy of testing yet another outstanding piece of technology: the Podofo Portable Car Stereo Wireless Apple Carplay Android Auto. This 7-Inch Touch Screen Car Radio transforms your ride into a mobile multimedia station while keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Specifications

Equipped with Bluetooth, the carplay screen wirelessly connects to your phone, flawlessly integrating your phone’s functions into its 7-inch touch screen. It facilitates superior hands-free capabilities including calls and music streaming, thereby enhancing car safety and ensuring an enjoyable ride every time. It’s undoubtedly one of the easiest ways to integrate the latest media technology into almost any car. It also boasts Map Navigation accessed via CarPlay/Android Auto functions.

Setting Up

Installation is breezy and straightforward, compatible with all car models owing to a voltage range of 7-32V. Driving sound through the car’s speakers can be done in one of two ways – via an FM transmitter or utilizing an AUX cable.

Performance

The screen offers vivid and responsive touch controls. However, responsiveness tends to delay sometimes, which is significant but not a deal-breaker. Additionally, we encountered instances of the audio intermittently cutting out while driving.

Pros

The Podofo Portable Car Stereo serves as an economical yet efficient upgrade, estimated to save users upwards of $2000 compared to replacing the entire console. Voice control functionality allows for safer and more efficient driving. With its own built-in speakers, it delivers surprisingly good sound quality. For our drivers with convertibles, the unit’s hood offers excellent sun glare protection for easier viewing. The device’s portability allows it to be moved between cars, providing flexibility and sparing users the cost of multiple expensive stereo systems.

Cons

Despite its merits, this device has a few shortcomings. The mounting stand lacks flexibility, posing a challenge for curved dashboards as the adhesive fails to hold reliably. With many users likely to stash the device above the dashboard, an adaptable stand would enhance its value tremendously. The device can also heat up significantly, especially when the power cord is unplugged. Lastly, the suction cup for the windshield mount is not as effective as one would hope, causing issues for some users.

Conclusion

After a thorough test drive with the Podofo Portable Car Stereo Wireless Apple Carplay Android Auto, we concluded that it offers excellent value for its price and delivers on its promise for a safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable driving experience. Despite a few holes, its versatility, easy installation process, and fantastic sound quality make it a worthwhile purchase for any retro car owner.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

“Balancing Act: Affordable Infotainment with the SANPTENT Double Din Car Stereo – An In-Depth Review”

Review Team — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 00:05:46 +0000

SANPTENT Double Din Car Stereo Review: A Budget-Friendly Infotainment Upgrade with Some Hitches

Here at Retro Tech Drives, we often dream of pairing classic style with modern tech. The SANPTENT Double Din Car Stereo Radio, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, caught our eye promising just that – a marriage of new and old. After in-depth testing and user observations, we took a deep dive into the device’s many features, real-world usage, and found it to be a mixed bag – it’s like an ambitious road trip with a few surprising hiccups.

Features & Specifications

The SANPTENT Double Din radio boasts compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering seamless integration with smartphones. The 7-inch HD capacitive touchscreen is both clear and responsive, adding a modern feel to your classic ride. One of the pull factors of this device is its mirroring function – shown via a USB line, content from your smartphone can be synchronously displayed on the car stereo.

Additionally, this stereo incorporates a backup camera, a feature that enhances driving safety by automatically displaying reverse images on the screen when the car is backing up. With a working voltage at DC 12V and a maximum power output of 4x60W, it accommodates standard sizes and universal power in most vehicles. However, note that it supports external amplifiers but not subwoofers.

Performance: Hits and Misses

On the plus side, the sound quality leaves a decent impression; the FM radio reception, as well as audio playing off USB drives and TF cards, is clear, and the availability of a 13 or 15-band customizable EQ enhances the audio experience.

Effective integration with Carplay and Android Auto makes for a productive connection with map navigation, phone contacts, music, and more. Users have also noted that the steering wheel remote control is a thoughtful addition, promising ease of control while driving.

However, there are noticeable drawbacks. The standard-sized radio isn’t a perfect fit for all vehicles, and we found issues with the screen mirroring function, which disgruntled many users. Despite its advertised feature, you may only watch YouTube or online videos, but not actual movies.

The device doesn’t keep settings if the unit is removed or the car battery is disconnected – an inconvenient and antiquated feature that feels out of place in a modern device. Consistent iPhone users reported technical difficulties related to the main power button and the USB port, which impacted the functionality of Carplay. A few users also experienced poor audio quality on the receiving end when using the device to handle phone calls.

Perhaps the biggest letdown was the lack of AM radio functionality, contrary to its product description. This may be a show-stopper based on your preferences and listening habits.

Conclusion

Considering it barely hovers above the $100 mark, the SANPTENT Double Din Car Stereo is a reasonable bang-for-the-buck option for those who want to upgrade their vehicle’s infotainment system on a budget. While it delivers a good enough audio experience and smartphone integration, it also presents a number of shortcomings.

If you’re installing this in a weekend car or a project vehicle – and you can work around the misses mentioned above – this device could be a feasible selection. However, for frequent drivers and music lovers seeking a flawless, reliable multimedia experience, you might want to consider other options in the market.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

Check it out on Amazon.ca (Canada)

“Redefining Retro Rides: A Deep Dive into the Hotfenlee 7″ Double Din Car Stereo for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto”

Review Team — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 00:07:18 +0000

Introducing the Hotfenlee 7″ Double Din Car Stereo for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Recent tests with this double din car stereo have unveiled some exciting features and significant benefits for retro car enthusiasts wanting to integrate modern tech into their vintage vehicles. This tech masterpiece provides a multifaceted MP5 player, supporting Bluetooth, hands-free calling, AM/FM radio, and connections for USB and AUX.

Compatibility and Functionality

Whether you’re an Apple or Android user, this double din car stereo has got you covered. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, creating the perfect platform to easily access phone contacts, notifications, emails, map navigation, music, videos, or even make hands-free phone calls.

12LED Rear View Camera

Equipped with a 12LED HD camera, another laudable feature is its rear view camera support. Once the reverse gear is engaged, the console displays the rear view on the 7″ screen, which significantly simplifies reversing.

Phone Mirror Link

The car audio kit outdoes itself with its phone mirror link capability. By simply activating this function and connecting your smartphone, you can sync any content directly to the Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) system on the 7″ screen. What’s more, the system provides GPS navigation by synchronizing with the mobile phone rather than an in-built system, stunning us with its smart utilisation of technology.

Installation and Service

When it comes to installation, we did note that this 7.01(L)*2.45(W)*3.94(H) inch stereo could potentially prompt compatibility issues. Some cars may require additional dash kits and wiring harnesses for a perfect fit, but this is a small inconvenience considering the functionalities offered. The comprehensive technical team and excellent customer service, bolstered by a 12-month warranty and lifetime technical support, add value to the purchase.

A User Experience

Test drives revealed an impressive sound quality even when the premium Bose Audio AMP was bypassed. The wireless Apple Carplay linked seamlessly, tuning and saving radio stations proved a breeze, and all features were easy to operate. However, installing might require a bit of a hustle due to the unusual size, but it’s a small trade-off for the enormous benefits that you get.

Overall Impressions

Regarding its pros, this piece of tech boasts an absolute bang for the buck. The flawless functionalities, improved sound quality, instantaneous Bluetooth connectivity, and customisable interface were praise-worthy. On the flip side, users should be prepared for a slightly tricky installation process, and the microphone for hands-free calls could use some improvements.

Convenient and Straightforward

After a thorough examination of this stellar double din car stereo, it is safe to say that this is an exceptional piece of technology that offers stunning features to enhance your driving experience. While it does have its trade-offs, the overall practicality, ease of use, and the added functionalities make it a worthy investment for any retro car enthusiast. The price-performance ratio alone earns this double din car stereo a significant thumbs-up from our end.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

“Revamping Retro Rides: An In-Depth Review of the Podofo Car Stereo 2 Din Car Radio 7 Inch MP5 Player”

Review Team — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 00:08:59 +0000

Podofo Car Stereo 2 Din Car Radio 7 Inch MP5 Player Review | Retro Tech Drives

In-Depth Review: Podofo Car Stereo 2 Din Car Radio 7 Inch MP5 Player with HD Touch Screen

In our quest to test and review tech products designed for retro cars, we set out to test the Podofo Car Stereo 2 Din Car Radio 7 Inch MP5 Player with HD Touch Screen. Boasting a 7-inch HD digital display with touch screen features, this MP5 player runs on Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming and includes a backup camera. At a glance, this equipment promises to bring retro cars the ease of modern technology. Let’s delve deeper into our findings.

Exploring the Features

The Podofo Car Stereo slots into your car’s dual-DIN slot and comes with a wide range of features. Alongside the standard FM radio tuner, this multimedia player also supports USB, SD, AUX-in, and Bluetooth connectivity. Besides, the stereo is equipped with an HD waterproof super night vision rear camera, which kicks into operation as soon as you put the car into reverse gear. It also has a preset max 4*45W amplifier that maintains a higher 4*24w RMS power output.

Installation and User Experience

Integrating the Podofo Car Stereo into our test car was a breeze. Although it doesn’t fit perfectly into every model, simple modifications can solve this minor hiccup. We found that the interface was fairly user-friendly, and its Bluetooth function performed excellently with little to no hassle in connecting mobile devices for handsfree communication. The built-in EQ options provided discernable sound changes, tweaking the audio quality to a favorable point.

Hidden Complexities

While we experienced fair functionality, we did encounter a realm of complexities. First, we were unable to display artist/song information on the HUD when connected to Bluetooth. We also observed some shortcomings with the screen mirroring feature: audio from videos was slow and stuttering, making this feature less enjoyable. In addition, there is no AM radio option, which could be a disadvantage for some users.

Product Drawbacks

Like any other product, the Podofo Car Stereo has its share of drawbacks and issues. To start with, when the phone is charging via the stereo, the Bluetooth function is unavailable. Additionally, the unit lacks mounting hardware – you have to use old mounting brackets or buy a universal mount. And depending on the specifics of your car, there might be gaps on the sides of the unit that have to be filled in.

Conclusion

In the grand scheme, the Podofo Car Stereo 2 Din Car Radio 7 Inch MP5 Player with HD Touch Screen ranks fairly on the scale of affordability and functionality. It offers a range of features that bring a touch of modern convenience to retro cars. While the cons are considerable, if you are looking for a budget-friendly stereo with Bluetooth and FM, this device does the job. Just bear in mind that you might compromise on some advanced features. But for its price and the core features it brings, we think it’s a good bet!

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

“Combining Past and Future: A Deep Dive into the Revolutionary Skisea Wireless Apple CarPlay Car Stereo for Retro Cars”

Review Team — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 00:10:22 +0000

Penetrating Review: Skisea Wireless Apple Carplay Car Stereo, the Future of Retro Cars

The Skisea Wireless Apple CarPlay Car Stereo is clearly taking retro cars a step forward. It offers seamless wireless connectivity between your phone and car which we found to be incredibly convenient. Connecting an iPhone felt like magic, with direct access to apps, maps, and features being a breeze using the car’s touchscreen display and Siri’s voice commands.

The Android Auto compatibility is just icing on the cake. With both wireless and wired connection options available, this Android auto screen caters to all Android users, effortlessly transforming the retro car experience into a futuristic living fantasy.

One thing our team found impressive was the built-in dash cam system. Sporting a clear 2.5K HD front camera and an 1080p rear camera, the ability to view footage from both cameras simultaneously offered unmatched driving experience and security.

In terms of navigation, the 9-inch HD touch screen offers precise real-time tracking and GPS positioning. The voice-guided navigation made sure we never took a wrong turn, providing real-time route suggestions for traffic jams and lane changes.

The sound experience we had was exceptional. Bluetooth, AUX, FM transitions were smooth, and the audio delivered via our car’s speakers was notably clear. This car stereo even connects to an FM transmitter, enabling wireless transmission on the same channel as our car’s FM radio, which was quite handy.

The installation process we went through was simple and straightforward. Best part? It fit all cars in our retro lot. Whether it’s a truck, van, or old classic, this car stereo melds flawlessly creating a mesmerising blend of retro and avant-garde tech.

The Skisea Wireless Apple CarPlay Car Stereo was substantially brighter and quicker than many brandless units our team has tested, and the built-in dash cam was unusually clear.

While the audio output via the aux output/input was not the best we’ve experienced, through the FM transmitter output, the sound was reasonably clear and sufficient for casual driving and listening. The sound felt just a tad compressed and slightly distorted, but not enough to be a dealbreaker.

We were stunned by the sharp and vibrant display, and the speed of this device is unparalleled in comparison to other head units that we’ve installed in the past. The Skisea CarPlay works flawlessly with virtually no lag between applications, making it a perfect solution for those in need of zippy Apple CarPlay functionality.

One minor con of this device is that the backup camera setup can be a little challenging, especially when it comes to hiding the wiring. That said, the payoff will undoubtedly be worth it considering the improvement it provides over standard factory backup cameras.

In summary, if you’re looking to spruce up your retro car with some smart tech or looking for a more interactive and safe driving experience, the Skisea Wireless Apple CarPlay Car Stereo is a worthy investment. With incredible features packed into one single device, you’ll wonder how you ever did without it.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

Check it out on Amazon.ca (Canada)

“Bargain Bonanza: Naifay Double Din Car Stereo Unites Retro Chic with Modern Tech Savvy”

Review Team — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 12:09:22 +0000

Product Review: Naifay Double Din Car Stereo Compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto

In our mission to test and provide you with in-depth reviews of retro tech for your drives, we recently took the plunge on a promising budget-friendly car stereo: the “Naifay Double Din Car Stereo Compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto.” This intriguing console comes with an array of enticing features, such as a 7-inch HD touchscreen, backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, mirror link, and superior sound quality.

Carplay and Android Auto Compatibility

The first striking feature is that this unit is built-in with Apple Carplay and Android Auto – a rare bargain for a budget-friendly stereo. This allows you to focus on your drive while making calls, receiving messages, enjoying your favourite music, and even receive directions through voice assistant.

Bluetooth 5.1

It features an upgraded Bluetooth 5.1 version, providing a more stable connection, capturing your voice clearly for better call experiences, and providing blissful music listening moments.

Mirror link Function

The 7-inch stereo also has a phone mirror link function that works superbly with both iOS and Android devices. You can easily sync your phone’s content to the stereo for a larger screen experience, which comes in handy with apps like Google Maps, Spotify, Youtube, and others.

Rear View Backup Camera

The unit comes with a free rear-view camera that boasts HD night vision and a 170-degree ultra-wide viewing angle. There is also an automatic switch to the video input signal while reversing, which significantly simplifies parking.

Voice Control

Voice control is a big plus here, especially with the user-friendly Google Assistant integration. It does make navigating menus, making calls, and even changing music much safer and convenient while on the road.

Installation & Customer Service

The manufacturer provides clear installation instructions and offers dedicated 7*24 hours of after-sales technical support. However, potential buyers are advised to check if their dashboard opening size fits the stereo to avoid any unnecessary disappointments.

Sound Quality

The console maintains an impressive sound quality, thanks to the built-in and external microphone interface, providing unrivalled audio streaming quality.

But just as with any other product on the market, this console comes with some minor issues. The most notable among customers is the inconsistent connection with Android Auto – the connection sometimes requires unplugging and replugging the device to connect properly. The physical control buttons may also stick once in a while, and viewing the screen from certain angles can be challenging due to lower-than-ideal color contrast.

Furthermore, while the unit comes with a backup camera, it lacks sufficient power to charge phones when used for navigation and music. Some users also mention that the microphone could use better placement as it doesn’t pick up voice commands correctly, creating issues during calls.

Despite these minor setbacks, the Naifay Double Din Car Stereo Compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto is still a phenomenal product that offers a lot at an unbeatable budget price. It’s a decent pick if you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle’s audio system to a touchscreen enabled, Bluetooth, and Carplay/Android Auto compatible model. The overall experience and features, considering the affordable price point, make this double din car stereo a worthwhile investment.

If you’re not bent on branding and can overlook small hiccups for an otherwise stable and feature-packed budget-friendly stereo system, this unit might just be the perfect fit for your car.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

Check it out on Amazon.ca (Canada)

“Blending Classic and Modern: An In-depth Look at the Westods Portable Wireless Carplay Car Stereo with 2.5K Dash Cam”

Review Team — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 01:54:39 +0000

Westods Portable Wireless Carplay Car Stereo with 2.5K Dash Cam – In-depth Review

When it comes to upgrading a classic vehicle with modern functionality, the Westods Portable Wireless Carplay Car Stereo proves to be an impressive option. As we immersed ourselves in the testing phase, a series of impressive features, along with a few not-so-impressive ones, revealed themselves, paving the way for this comprehensive review.

Impressive Specifications

By far the most attractive feature of the Westods Car Stereo is the wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. By exploiting Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, the device allows seamless access to music, navigation, and even messaging services, providing an all-round safer and all-encompassing hands-free experience.

It comes with a 2.5K HD front camera, and an AHD rear camera supported by a split-screen feature, allowing for safer and more effective reversing, and that’s not all. The system also incorporates DVR loop recording. An added bonus is the inclusion of a 64GB TF card for automatic recording storage.

The device displays cutting edge HD IPS touchscreen technology, with a 1600*600 resolution and a 178° viewing angle, markedly improving the viewing experience. The screen size stands at a generous 9.3 inches which is a significant upgrade for a classic car’s dash.

Mounting and Installation

The car stereo is simple to use, and won’t need a mechanic’s expertise for an easy dashboard installation. All models of cars are catered for considering it comes with a 7-32V voltage range, and that includes trucks, vans, campers and RVs as well.

Performance and Usability

In terms of performance, the device turned out to be functional and responsive, with a snappy touch screen that displayed seamless wireless Android Auto functionality. The customer service experience has also been noteworthy for its promptness and eagerness to provide assistance.

The device has a built-in speaker but can also transmit sound to the car’s speakers for a louder output. The Bluetooth connectivity works perfectly well for hands-free calling and music streaming. Furthermore, the device successfully connects to the FM Transmitter for frequency-to-frequency wireless transmission, thereby making it possible to send all sounds to the original car speaker.

Pros and Cons

Like every piece of technology, the Westods Stereo does come with a few catches. In some instances, units were reported as not supporting AA wireless which required a firmware update, and some users had issues with audio output. In certain models, the audio would play only from the device and not the car’s bluetooth speakers. The power-on experience was also inconsistent among various units.

Nonetheless, some of its more commendable features included the size of the screen, and the fact that music, GPS navigation, and Siri & Google Assistant functionalities were perfectly rendered through the device. The boot-up logo customization earned many praises as did customer service responsiveness.

The audio quality, however, when using the FM transmitter, was a bit of an issue, with users reporting scratchy and static-laced sound. The Auxiliary plug-in, on the other hand, proved to be a better alternative. There was also a noticeable difference in sound volume depending on whether you used the in-built speakers or the car’s FM radio.

Conclusion

Summing up, the Westods Portable Wireless Carplay Car Stereo with 2.5K Dash Cam is a pretty solid choice to enhance a classic car with modern amenities. While it does come with a few downsides, it nonetheless offers some impressive functionality at a reasonable cost. The few misses we experienced did not feel significant enough to overshadow the fact that it is a reliable and feature-rich head unit that should be considered when shopping for a car stereo upgrade.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

Check it out on Amazon.ca (Canada)

“Meeting Utility with Affordability: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Leadfan 7inch Car Stereo Double Din Radio with Touchscreen and Backup Camera”

Review Team — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 00:12:04 +0000

Review of the Leadfan 7inch Car Stereo Double Din Radio with Touchscreen and Backup Camera

Equipped with a high-definition 7-inch touchscreen with a density of 1024*600 pixels, this double DIN car stereo ranks high in terms of visual appeal and functionality. It comes in a standard size that fits most cars. The crystal-clear display is a delight, perfect for streaming music and viewing images. However, the display resolution may fall below expectations for some.

The mirror link feature that supports both Android and iPhone intrigues us. One can conveniently sync content from their smartphone, such as music, videos, and GPS information, seamlessly to the car stereo. It should be noted that the navigation function depends primarily on your smartphone, as the unit itself does not possess a GPS system.

Sporting Bluetooth 5.0, this radio allows a hands-free calling experience ensuring safety at its finest. The FM functionality, coupled with a comprehensive range of channel search modes, significantly enhances the driving experience. However, its microphone could do with some improvements. Some users reported needing to shout for others to hear them during calls, which isn’t ideal.

The device supports various input modes, including USB/SD/AUX input, which is a boon for tech aficionados. But, playlist format compatibility seems to be an issue. We struggled to recognize some common playlist formats like m3u, m3u8, pla, and pls. While this unit is versatile, its compatibility issues are a notch against its score on usability.

Sounding out commendation is the RCA interface at the back of the car stereo, making the connection to external power amplifiers, monitors, or subwoofers straightforward. This opens the door for a much-enhanced sound system.

The standard backup camera built into this car stereo is a valuable addition. The camera kicks into action as soon as you switch to reverse gear, enhancing visibility hence boosting safety. However, some users noted the line bars seemed off, erroneously indicating they were closer to objects than they actually were.

Despite these notable features, this double DIN car radio lacks in some areas. The FM tuner’s performance could be improved. Users have reported faint static sounds when tuning in to usually strong stations. The unit also seems to experience software hiccups resulting in unexpected resets of presets and illumination settings. This, as you can imagine, can be quite frustrating.

Value-wise, it’s hard to beat the return this car stereo offers given its affordable price. In spite of minor kinks, it provides solid functionality and performs decently well under most circumstances. It seems to be a reasonably adequate solution for users in need of a budget-friendly, feature-packed car stereo that is easy to install and operate.

Wrapping up, while our overall opinion is positive, the Leadfan 7inch Car Stereo Double Din Radio with Touchscreen and Backup Camera does come with its share of pros and cons. If you’re on the lookout for a budget-friendly, feature-packed solution and willing to overlook minor gripes, this device will not disappoint.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)

Check it out on Amazon.fr (France)

“Revamp Your Retro Ride: The Comprehensive Review of the Hikity Portable Bluetooth Car Stereo with Wireless CarPlay, Android Auto & Dash Cam”

Review Team — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 15:20:55 +0000

Review: Hikity Wireless CarPlay & Wireless Android Auto with a Portable Car Stereo Bluetooth and Dash Cam

At Retro Tech Drives, we are constantly on the lookout for products that revolutionize the driving experience in our beloved retro cars. Recently, we tested the “Hikity Wireless CarPlay & Wireless Android Auto, Portable Car Stereo Bluetooth with Dash Cam, 9.3 Inch HD Touchscreen Display, FM Transmitter Rear View Camera AUX Cable”. This device, with several intriguing features and a 4.1/5 rating on Amazon, caught our attention for a variety of reasons.

Power-packed specifications

The device’s standout specifications include wireless CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, enabling simple access to smartphone features through a Bluetooth connection on a 9.3-inch anti-glare touchscreen. The high-resolution display supports a two-way video split. We found that firmware updates could be a bit tricky, an issue for which customer assistance may be required.

It also includes a dash cam with day and night seamless loop recording for front and rear view perspectives, making driving safer. The reversing guide line is adjustable, catering to various drivers’ preferences. One extraordinary feature is its compatibility with all types of vehicles – cars, campers, RVs, trucks, and vans. All thanks to its 7-32V wide voltage.

Musical features

The device also serves as a music player. It can play music via Bluetooth, FM transmitter, and with an AUX cable. From our testing, while the FM transmitter and Bluetooth functionality can sufficiently handle phone calls and navigation, optimum musical experience is achievable via AUX connectivity. We did, however, notice a buzzing feedback when AUX is selected, which is remedied with a 3.5mm ground loop isolator.

User Experience

The device navigated perfectly on CarPlay, with Waze and Pandora working without hitches. Its voice control functionality is also quite impressive. It took some time for initial setup, mainly in hiding the wires for a cleaner look. It does suffer from occasional disconnections, usually happening around critical navigation moments, requiring multiple restarts to regain proper connection.

Quality of Calls

Quality during phone calls was another aspect we had some concern with. Some of our testing team found that the audio broke up making conversation during driving difficult. Voice commands were also hit-and-miss, working better when the car was stationary. Therefore, for essential calls or accurate voice commands, you might have to pull over or ensure the ambient noise level is low.

Customer Service

One aspect that certainly stood out was the level of customer service. The device’s customer service is very responsive and willing to address any concerns with the device. So, if there are any issues arising during usage, you can expect prompt and helpful replies.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, while the device has minor setbacks in areas such as call and music quality, overall, for its price point, it performs remarkably well. It integrates well with the car’s interface, doesn’t obstruct view, and gives an old car fresh technological appeal. This device, with its extensive smartphone accessibility, clear backup camera, and effective navigation system, indeed fits the bill for a comprehensive car upgrade.

Check it out on Amazon.com (United States)