Best Android-based Headunit?

[nickw14]

Hey guys.

I am really interested in getting my head unit to run Android. I considered a Nexus 7 dash install, but decided against it for the sake of functionality (volume controls specifically). I have been searching around for an actual android-based headunit and have found a couple that I like:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Android-4-2-...item2c860b5e70

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ca-FI-Dashli...item3ce652cea6

The only thing I am on the fence about with these units is the plug-and-play compatibility with the stock wiring harnesses. Ca-Fi does make a Toyota version of their unit, but it costs an extra $180 or so...

I have never been too knowledgeable about audio or head units, so what do you guys think I would need to do to get either of these to work in my vehicle? Would I need new harnesses, adapters, etc?

Thanks for your help!

[Foobar]

If you go with the non-Toyota double-DIN head unit, you're going to need the side adapters to fill the gap (Toyota double-DIN is 22mm wider), you'll also need harnesses for the toyota 10-pin harness, the 28-pin SWC harness, the antenna harness, and if you want to retain your console USB port, a toyota USB harness.

Then, since your head unit would be a universal kit, you'll need to do some wire splicing to connect the harnesses you bought to the head unit's wires, following whatever instructions they provide (should be fairly straightforward, and if you've soldered anything in the past, you're already ahead of the game). Then it's a matter of plugging everything in to the stock harnesses, attaching the side adapters/brackets to the head unit, shoving it into the console, bolting it back up with the 4 10mm bolts, and snapping the dash fascia back into place.

Whatever you get, make sure it really is Android 4.x and a capacitive screen. There's been reports of people getting a head unit shipped from Hong Kong that was advertised as capacitive or Jelly Bean and then they arrive as resistive and/or Gingerbread.

[raptor87]

The first one you listed says it has a mali 400mp gpu which means its probably paired with an ARM Cortex A9 CPU. It should be decently fast I would like to see one in person.

[agentdr8]

None of the Android headunits are particularly great, but there are a few with lots of community support. I have a Huifei/KGL unit that I'll be migrating to my BRZ. Lots of good info on this over at XDA. I've contributed a few apps to the group of users there, and where there's dev support, there's a better chance of having it work out the way you want.

The Huifei is a JB 4.2.2 unit with a 6.5" 800x480 capacitive multi-touch screen. Built in am/fm/rds tuner, dvd player, rear cam input, etc. It's replacing my Pioneer AppRadio 2, which worked well, but not nearly as integrated as a unit designed to be run in a vehicle only.

The first obstacle to overcome is the difference in DIN dimensions. Apparently in the US, double-DIN sizes are a bit smaller than overseas. And the mounting hole pattern on the Huifei is too far back for the stock brackets, so I'll have to fabricate something since I have the universal unit. Like the CAFi, if you get the Toyota-specific faceplate version, that has a 200mm x 100mm dimension, it should fit just fine.

[Shady195]

the CA-Fi seems to be one of the best non "big name brand" I've seen, and they aparently have really good customer support as well. Chances are you won't get that with many of the ebay random android units.

[agentdr8]

Originally Posted by Shady195

the CA-Fi seems to be one of the best non "big name brand" I've seen, and they aparently have really good customer support as well. Chances are you won't get that with many of the ebay random android units.

I don't believe CA-Fi has upgraded any of their units to 4.2+ though, which might matter to some. If I'm not mistaken, the CA-Fi is built on the same platform as the AN-21 U. All of these non-big name brand headunits are made in China by a handful (or less) of mfgs with different faceplates. As long as you find a reseller that's willing to provide updates to resolve issues (which some of the AliExpress/eBay sellers do), they should all more or less do the same thing.

[Bg8780]

I'm interested as well. Mostly looking for a unit to run Waze and Micro SD support to download my music via Google Music. Also, Wifi so I can tether my phone when I need to. I was planning on waiting for Google to release Android Auto units that I can install.