Related
Has anybody had any luck finding either of these? Samsung's website has the dock, but only for back order. I am dying for a good dock, makes me miss my blackberry's.
I haven't been able to find it. I'd really like the car dock so I can use it as a decent GPS.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Haha GPS? I'm talking about the captivate x)
SeenNotScene said:
Haha GPS? I'm talking about the captivate x)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny. My GPS has always worked fine. But I too would like a car dock. Cup holders are for cups, not phones.
SeenNotScene said:
Has anybody had any luck finding either of these? Samsung's website has the dock, but only for back order. I am dying for a good dock, makes me miss my blackberry's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
trekie86 said:
I haven't been able to find it. I'd really like the car dock so I can use it as a decent GPS.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know this doesn't help for a Desktop Dock but another post here had a great idea for a car dock (mount). It is very functional for the car and I am glad I did it. I used Tasker to set some variables so the phone "Docks" when it is in this mount. I am attaching some pictures of how it looks. The original thread is HERE.
Decent Desktop Dock
http://amzn.to/bgXg57
Good "dock" with an extra battery and charger.. granted with the usb on top, there will be no true desktop dock.
Check out Samsung's website. They have a perfect one that sits on it's side. Its forever on back order however...
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
douglastheduke said:
http://amzn.to/bgXg57
Good "dock" with an extra battery and charger.. granted with the usb on top, there will be no true desktop dock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The desktop home app is in landscape. The intended docking position is on its side as demoed by the Galaxy S advert. I even made a dock with internal amp and speakers that holds the phone on it's left side.
Note: Just making an informative statement. Read with a positively reinforcing internal voice for better results.
I just received a "Backorder Update" from Samsung regarding that charger/dock/cradle. It's available when I go to the page now.
http://originus.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ECR-D981BEGSTA
Shovelhead84 said:
The desktop home app is in landscape. The intended docking position is on its side as demoed by the Galaxy S advert. I even made a dock with internal amp and speakers that holds the phone on it's left side.
Note: Just making an informative statement. Read with a positively reinforcing internal voice for better results.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Picture pretty please
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
lasimo0 said:
I just received a "Backorder Update" from Samsung regarding that charger/dock/cradle. It's available when I go to the page now.
http://originus.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ECR-D981BEGSTA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am awaiting that same email.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Its actually quite easy to use any dock - just fit it by melting with a lighter.
I know that sounds weird but it really works. I used my old Garmin.
Don't recommend the universal docks. They fit weird.
Interested if you guys find anything that uses the USB port
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
SeenNotScene said:
Picture pretty please
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a link to the original post with pics of the original build. I have since made some improvements but will have to update the pics later.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=7470243&postcount=14
miztaken1312 said:
Funny. My GPS has always worked fine. But I too would like a car dock. Cup holders are for cups, not phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly. My GPS has worked fine since I've had the phone and I really like the Google maps navigator. Funny thing is that my phone sits in the cup holder right now when I need to use it as a GPS or for Trapster.
Do the car home and desk home apps not work in froyo? I'm not seeing them in the market.
exparrot said:
Do the car home and desk home apps not work in froyo? I'm not seeing them in the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's cause they aren't for Froyo. 2.1 only. You'll have to find an alternative that you like.
Sent from my Captivate
exparrot said:
Do the car home and desk home apps not work in froyo? I'm not seeing them in the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Google Car Home is infinity better than the Samsung one. It is also specifically a 2.2 app.
I'm just using 2 thick rubber bands to hold my phone on the sun visor. Vlingo works much better at that distance and I can clearly see the map.
exparrot said:
Do the car home and desk home apps not work in froyo? I'm not seeing them in the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have them on froyo, I installed through app brain not market.. but they work great
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
This desk dock SUCKS!
After many months of waiting on the back order, the desk top cradle arrived today, and...
It's simply awful.
While docked, you're stuck with five icons (Alarm, Daily Briefing, Gallery, Music and Voice Search). They are not customizable and I rarely use any of them. Samsung thought it sufficient to only allow customization with the clock (you can turn it off or get an analog or digital version--- WOW!) You can also change the city and the Celsius/Fahrenheit in Accuweather. My experience has been that Accuweather is wildly inaccurate. Totally useless...
As if that wasn't bad enough, Samsung, in their infinite wisdom, designed the dock so the volume controls and the headphone jack port are blocked. Finally, you can't access contacts or make calls while docked. That's right, you can't use your phone to make a call. To place a call, you have to first exit the landscape mode by pressing the home button and you're then in your home screen. But of course, at this point, everything is sideways if the phone is still docked. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me. I contemplated returning the dock for a refund, but the return policy included in the packaging states that full refunds will only be given for unopened items. Samsung states they will make partial refunds (at their sole discretion) based on the condition of the dock, accompanying literature and the packaging.
Learn from my mistake-- This dock is a huge waste of money. I've had it with Samsung. The delays and poor quality of the dock, the delays with FROYO and overall poor customer service means I'll be looking to purchase my next phone from another manufacturer.
Hey I have not seen it posted yet but the official samsung car dock is out for $50....
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
xpeppyx said:
Hey I have not seen it posted yet but the official samsung car dock is out for $50....
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LINK ? ? ?
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ECS-M981BEGSTA
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Still overpriced.
Newegg has it for $34.99. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16875998664
I have the BodyGlove case from ATT, does anyone know if I'd have to take the phone out of the case to put it into this dock?
badabam1 said:
I have the BodyGlove case from ATT, does anyone know if I'd have to take the phone out of the case to put it into this dock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Judging from the pictures, it looks like you probably do have to take it out of the case. It seems to be a pretty snug fit. I haven't been able to find any reviews/feedback about the car dock, tho. So I can't confirm.
Finally available, I'll probably get it from the egg. Does anyone know if the phone detects that it is in a dock as apposed to just being plugged in?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Now you can watch your non-functioning GPS with ease while on the go!
trekie86 said:
Finally available, I'll probably get it from the egg. Does anyone know if the phone detects that it is in a dock as apposed to just being plugged in?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The desk dock does trigger the phone to pull up either desk home or other things like some dock clock apps. I'd imagine the car dock will either will do the same thing, or know that's it is the car dock and do something specific to that.
One annoying thing on the desk dock is it has an audio out port, which would be great as the speaker is hard to hear considering the dock fits nice and snug. But they also give a nice announcement paper with the dock saying the audio out feature will work when Froyo is released for the phone.
With all the background noise in a car, audio out would be even more important. Since they seem to have cut a hole out in the mount where the speaker is, I'm guessing they're going the practical route with it and not counting on Froyo.
Voicebox said:
...
With all the background noise in a car, audio out would be even more important. Since they seem to have cut a hole out in the mount where the speaker is, I'm guessing they're going the practical route with it and not counting on Froyo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's where the bluetooth comes in handy.
TexUs said:
Now you can watch your non-functioning GPS with ease while on the go!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not if you get one of these.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000HZI2YY/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new
Got mine on sale for $15.
Reefermattness said:
Not if you get one of these.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000HZI2YY/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new
Got mine on sale for $15.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's interesting so this pretty much proves the GPS issue is because of the hardware in the phone, right?
TexUs said:
That's interesting so this pretty much proves the GPS issue is because of the hardware in the phone, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats what I thought at first too, but Im not entirely sure. The TomTom has its own GPS software in it as well, so you're bypassing the i987 entirely, both software and hardware. There is an app called "Bluetooth GPS Provider" that just reads what the TomTom is transmitting and uses it instead.
I received the Samsung Captivate Vehicle Mount and I'm very impressed with the quality of the piece. I had been using one of the generic mounts (mGrip) and although it did it's job, I wasn't satisfied. Most generic mounts use a flexible gooseneck stalk to hold the phone. This flexibility allows the phone to bounce and vibrate - it's just not steady.
There is no flexibility in the Samsung mount. No bobbing and weaving . . . none!! The phone is positioned in the mount securely and accurately, and once the phone is installed the piece with the power usb connector slides into the phone to secure the connection. There is also an external speaker jack that will become functional once we receive froyo 2.2.
When the phone is put into the mount and the mount connector piece is slid into position to mate with the phone, the phone automatically goes into the navigation desktop providing 5 large icons for the navigation functions.
The mount comes with a car charger cord included, no need to purchase one separately. Price is kind of high at $50, but it will be cheaper on eBay or discount sides if you're willing to wait awhile longer.
If you're looking for a high quality mount that provides an exact fit for your phone, proper automatic insertion and alignment (via the sliding power bracket) of the mini-usb connector and rock solid stability, this unit is the one to get.
Be aware that this mount will ONLY work with the Captivate - the other Galaxy S phones will not fit. AND Samsung mounts for the other Galaxy S phones will not work with the Captivate because of the case shape differences and the differing positions of the usb connector.
Hope this helps those looking for a vehicle mount for their Captivate.
Reefermattness said:
Thats what I thought at first too, but Im not entirely sure. The TomTom has its own GPS software in it as well, so you're bypassing the i987 entirely, both software and hardware. There is an app called "Bluetooth GPS Provider" that just reads what the TomTom is transmitting and uses it instead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm...
I guess the question is... Where does it do the GPS calculations at- the software that runs on top of the OS or the driver that runs below it? I don't know enough about it to know for sure- but if we knew it should help narrow it down.
gary1949 said:
I received the Samsung Captivate Vehicle Mount and I'm very impressed with the quality of the piece. I had been using one of the generic mounts (mGrip) and although it did it's job, I wasn't satisfied. Most generic mounts use a flexible gooseneck stalk to hold the phone. This flexibility allows the phone to bounce and vibrate - it's just not steady.
There is no flexibility in the Samsung mount. No bobbing and weaving . . . none!! The phone is positioned in the mount securely and accurately, and once the phone is installed the piece with the power usb connector slides into the phone to secure the connection. There is also an external speaker jack that will become functional once we receive froyo 2.2.
When the phone is put into the mount and the mount connector piece is slid into position to mate with the phone, the phone automatically goes into the navigation desktop providing 5 large icons for the navigation functions.
The mount comes with a car charger cord included, no need to purchase one separately. Price is kind of high at $50, but it will be cheaper on eBay or discount sides if you're willing to wait awhile longer.
If you're looking for a high quality mount that provides an exact fit for your phone, proper automatic insertion and alignment (via the sliding power bracket) of the mini-usb connector and rock solid stability, this unit is the one to get.
Be aware that this mount will ONLY work with the Captivate - the other Galaxy S phones will not fit. AND Samsung mounts for the other Galaxy S phones will not work with the Captivate because of the case shape differences and the differing positions of the usb connector.
Hope this helps those looking for a vehicle mount for their Captivate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the review bud, I ordered one myself from the Egg. Taking my Rocketfish (temp solution, it worked ok) one back ASAP.
I prefer the style from the samsung website. But its just to expensive.
This is my captivate. There are many like it but this one is mine.
Voicebox said:
The desk dock does trigger the phone to pull up either desk home or other things like some dock clock apps. I'd imagine the car dock will either will do the same thing, or know that's it is the car dock and do something specific to that.
One annoying thing on the desk dock is it has an audio out port, which would be great as the speaker is hard to hear considering the dock fits nice and snug. But they also give a nice announcement paper with the dock saying the audio out feature will work when Froyo is released for the phone.
With all the background noise in a car, audio out would be even more important. Since they seem to have cut a hole out in the mount where the speaker is, I'm guessing they're going the practical route with it and not counting on Froyo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you look at the pictures on newegg (they let you zoom), you will see that it has an audio out. I did order mine yesterday, should have it soon, it ships from their NJ warehouse.
gary1949 said:
There is also an external speaker jack that will become functional once we receive froyo 2.2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I assume you're reading that from the included instructions. If so, that would make two places (home dock) where Samsung has mentioned in writing their intent to provide the update of Froyo to Captivate owners. They need to get it out already.
I'm designing a dock for the N7v2 for use in a car. It will have Qi wireless charging and Bluetooth audio receiver, with a standard 3.5mm audio output. It should be compatible with most cases.
I am also currently designing a mounting method that should be close to universal between different cars, and should not fall off like most other docks in the market.
I designed one for the N7v1 using the Pogo pins, and I can never go back to not having a dock for my tablet in my car. It's amazing the difference it made for me.
I want to know a couple things.Please reply with the following template:
1. Would you want a dock like this?
2. How much do you expect to pay for it?
Thank you everyone, in advance!
lorddralnu said:
I'm designing a dock for the N7v2 for use in a car. It will have Qi wireless charging and Bluetooth audio receiver. It should be compatible with most cases.
I am also currently designing a mounting method that should be close to universal between different cars, and should not fall off like most other docks in the market.
I designed one for the N7v1 using the Pogo pins, and I can never go back to not having a dock for my tablet in my car. It's amazing the difference it made for me.
I want to know a couple things.Please reply with the following template:
1. Would you want a dock like this?
2. How much do you expect to pay for it?
Thank you everyone, in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like a great idea. Do you have any links showing your work with N7v1? Heck, I may be interested in that version since the v1 tablet can be had for cheap these days and is more than capable for the limited functions needed in a car. At any rate:
1. yes, would be interested
2. no idea what a fair price would be, but $50-$100 seems like a fair ballpark
I would think very carefully why you need a wireless charger in a car.
Heat kills batteries; tablets in cars get hot. Why add heat to your woes?
The tablet is likely to be busy playing music and navigating, often in full sunlight. Why add to the heating problems by using a wireless charger when a 5v cord charger attached to the car supply will do the trick?
The wireless car mount/charger iterations for the Nexus 4 were a failure, I recall.
rant said:
Sounds like a great idea. Do you have any links showing your work with N7v1? Heck, I may be interested in that version since the v1 tablet can be had for cheap these days and is more than capable for the limited functions needed in a car. At any rate:
1. yes, would be interested
2. no idea what a fair price would be, but $50-$100 seems like a fair ballpark
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've attached 4 pictures of the dock I made for the first Nexus 7. You'll notice that it inst exactly a dock you can put in just any car. I realized I made a little too rugged... and big!
croques said:
I would think very carefully why you need a wireless charger in a car.
Heat kills batteries; tablets in cars get hot. Why add heat to your woes?
The tablet is likely to be busy playing music and navigating, often in full sunlight. Why add to the heating problems by using a wireless charger when a 5v cord charger attached to the car supply will do the trick?
The wireless car mount/charger iterations for the Nexus 4 were a failure, I recall.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, that's why I don't leave the tablet in the car, I keep it with me. While I'm in the car, if it's hot out I will have the A/C on anyways, so heat has not been an issue.
Most of my broken devices are dead because the USB port broke because of wear and tear. One of the points of this dock is to reduce that. Plugging in a device everytime I get in the car is partly to blame for such failures. I would have used Pogo Pins, like with the first Nexus 7, but they don't exist on the second.
Shared app developing ideas
Hey everyone,
my name is joseph and i am new to this website. I am also new to the whole rooting phones as well as i am learning the basics of computer science-- os, rom, ram, eprom, android, custom roms.....etc.
I honestly have no idea what i am looking to read and study up on so if you have any ideas than please let me know so i can educate myself. I end goal is to be a program developer.
Also i have an amazing ideas of a great new app. I have the layouts for the app but don't have the knowledge to build the app myself. If you are interested in learning more about my idea and possibly collaberate pleae let me know and we can possibly exchange numbers.
Another thing, i am an inventor and creator.
-----trickyspartan
lorddralnu said:
Most of my broken devices are dead because the USB port broke because of wear and tear. One of the points of this dock is to reduce that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look at active Brodit car mounts - say for a Nexus 4. There the device is supported and aligned as it glides onto or off the USB. There is no possibility of twisting or yawing.
I think your proposal maybe over-kill - simplest solutions are always best IMHO. A guy in the Nexus 4 forum came to no good end and had a lot of unhappy 'subscribers'. Just saying.
croques said:
Look at active Brodit car mounts - say for a Nexus 4. There the device is supported and aligned as it glides onto or off the USB. There is no possibility of twisting or yawing.
I think your proposal maybe over-kill - simplest solutions are always best IMHO. A guy in the Nexus 4 forum came to no good end and had a lot of unhappy 'subscribers'. Just saying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would normally agree. I was hoping to make one that doesnt require a case to be removed to use. I designed my previous dock the way you describe (except it used the Pogo pins on the side), but I always had to remove the case and eventually the first case was showing signs of damage from being removed so often.
My hope is that the base platform of the dock I want to build will be compatible with multiple models of smartphones and tablets that are Qi capable. That'll require a lot more planning, but may be worth it.
lorddralnu said:
.
My hope is that the base platform of the dock I want to build will be compatible with multiple models of smartphones and tablets that are Qi capable. That'll require a lot more planning, but may be worth it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well if you're set on the route you've described; ... I see you've picked up on the Peltier pump in another thread. Credit me somewhere if you make it!
But I might consider an approach made by Philips in an Android Bluetooth Speaker and dock. The adjustment for USB and its placement on an edge, plus 180 degree rotation needed for some models, was catered for physically. A much cheaper approach which copes with tablets and phones!
croques said:
Well if you're set on the route you've described; ... I see you've picked up on the Peltier pump in another thread. Credit me somewhere if you make it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I will use a Peltier pump. And yes, I'll make sure you get credit for that idea I'll mount the transmitting coil onto the cold side (probably with a layer of copper in between, we'll try several things) and have the hot side of the pump mounted to the aluminum/sheet metal of the back plate (probably with thermal paste as well). I'll have the pump on a simple thermostat. Good thing I have an EE helping me with this project
Hopefully the final product won't need a Peltier pump, but I will definitely have it in the prototype.
croques said:
But I might consider an approach made by Philips in an Android Bluetooth Speaker and dock. The adjustment for USB and its placement on an edge, plus 180 degree rotation needed for some models, was catered for physically. A much cheaper approach which copes with tablets and phones!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't had very good experiences with using that type of dock The results of daily use tend to be USB ports that are stretched and loose. At least that's how it has been in my experience.
lorddralnu said:
I'll mount the transmitting coil onto the cold side (probably with a layer of copper in between, we'll try several things) and have the hot side of the pump mounted to the aluminum/sheet metal of the back plate (probably with thermal paste as well). I'll have the pump on a simple thermostat. Good thing I have an EE helping me with this project
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't forget to talk to your EE about eddy current loses in any conductors (copper, aluminium) you have nearby to your induction coil.
Interesting read, but with the cooler this is going to be a very expensive dock. Without it, look to Canada for your market.
I rigged up one for my Nexus 4 last Winter. Based on some testing, I used the most efficient charger I could find for that phone (the LG wcp-700). It worked very well... until late spring when the mercury broke 70. To make a long story short, I pulled it last month as the phone was getting too hot. This in a suv with a 4 liter v6 with plenty of air conditioning, front and rear.
Without the cooler, the tablet needs to be located directly in front of a vent, or even in moderate climates the unit will get hot enough to significantly reduce charging current.
One more thing to consider... the Nexus 7 is polarized vertically. This means that it is invisible in landscape orientation for anyone wearing polarized driving glasses, which I am willing to bet is a large percentage of your prospective market (tech savvy, auto enthusiasts). Most displays designed for vehicles are polarized at 45°, making this not such an issue.
While the tinkerer, software developer, and electronic geek in me wanted a fully integrated tablet in my truck, I soon came to the conclusion that it was simply not practical. What is really needed is a properly done appRadio, where a head unit can mirror the display of a mobile device (ideally wirelessly - miracast, etc.) with a control link set up to pass touches on the head unit back to the mobile device. We're about 30% there now, but a lack of standards, and major players wanting proprietary solutions is a problem.
I wish you much success with your endeavor, but just wanted to share my experience and feelings that this will not be all that marketable a product.
The problems you had with the nexus 4 does not necessarily effect the nexus 7. The nexus 4 was pretty terrible at wireless charging. I had a car setup with a qi charger with the lumia 920 and it worked great even in hot weather. I am not saying the nexus 7 will work, but it might.
Sent from my HTC One using xda app-developers app
txaggies07 said:
The nexus 4 was pretty terrible at wireless charging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What makes you say that? I ask as I have seen relatively similar performance with both the N7 and N4. The tricky thing about the N4 is that the coil is not centered in the vertical dimension, so for folks making the assumption that it is, there will be quite a bit of offset.
Solutions Etcetera said:
What makes you say that? I ask as I have seen relatively similar performance with both the N7 and N4. The tricky thing about the N4 is that the coil is not centered in the vertical dimension, so for folks making the assumption that it is, there will be quite a bit of offset.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I say that because of all the issues people had with car docks. It also had issues with the dt-900 qi chargers when it shouldn't have. It heated up excessively with most chargers.
I wonder if there will be an Official dock that lets you:
1. Charge
2. Expand TV HDMI out
3. USB port for Hard drive access
I really want the Nexus & FHD to be a Home entertainment player...may be a remote/ Or Kinect like gesture control app built in with the dock
Hope this comes true...it will be the best Combo for a home unit!
Hey guys,
Not sure if i'm the first on this forum to receive my joying 8inch head unit but i got it last friday and installed it the same day. This thing is awesome.
I've never had an android head unit but i've been hovering around these forums for about 2 months waiting for a 2gb unit to come out. I got on the new joying unit right when it came out and purchased it on amazon right away. Their customer service was awesome, they made sure i had the tools needed to install it before they shipped it out (which i did). and it still only took 4 days to get to me (central USA).
Coming from a $600 pioneer head unit i could not be happier. This is awesome. If you guys would like some more pics, or information feel free to post here or email me at [email protected]. Also i am the only one to have a review on amazon so far
Won't let me put images cause i'm still new to posting.. so here is the URL broken up
imgur .com /a/7vSZX
Installed steering wheel controls. It was not to bad, would of only taken a few minutes if i would of known what to do. I own a Subaru WRX 2010. I had to wire Key 2 to Pin #4 and Pin #14 to ground.
You will have a car crash soon...
When you keep driving and taking/posting fotos (of your android radio) and fidling arround.
But thanks for the first impression. Looks like they changed the equalizer software from the fake 9 to a honest 3-Band EQ.
Anything about the Audio Quality?
Greetings
Grungi said:
You will have a car crash soon...
When you keep driving and taking/posting fotos (of your android radio) and fidling arround.
But thanks for the first impression. Looks like they changed the equalizer software from the fake 9 to a honest 3-Band EQ.
Anything about the Audio Quality?
Greetings
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems good. better then the previous aftermarket radio i had in the car.
Also I did not make the post while driving.
Will you be rooting the device anytime soon? Any bluetooth issues with regards to connecting multiple devices/call quality? any problems with the mic?
vincel892 said:
Will you be rooting the device anytime soon? Any bluetooth issues with regards to connecting multiple devices/call quality? any problems with the mic?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure if i need to root it as everything i want i think i can get without. i'm open to hearing arguements about why i should root it though.
I have not tested out multiple devices on the bluetooth, i can do that later today. I have not tested the Mic as i do not make phone calls often. The microphone it came with seems to be almost identical to the one that came with my pioneer, just like a $6 mic you can get on amazon.
AeonSaber said:
Not sure if i need to root it as everything i want i think i can get without. i'm open to hearing arguements about why i should root it though.
I have not tested out multiple devices on the bluetooth, i can do that later today. I have not tested the Mic as i do not make phone calls often. The microphone it came with seems to be almost identical to the one that came with my pioneer, just like a $6 mic you can get on amazon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. If you do end up testing the mic, please let us know!
@ AeonSaber:
please can you post a pitcure about your system information with the MCU version and show me the url about your purchase?
Interested in the mic quality also. Will be installing mine in a F150 with the factory sync system and hoping the mic quality is on par.
Question about the subwoofer settings on these units, are there any you can adjust like low-pass filter and/or cutoff frequencies and stuff?
AeonSaber said:
Hey guys,
Not sure if i'm the first on this forum to receive my joying 8inch head unit but i got it last friday and installed it the same day. This thing is awesome.
I've never had an android head unit but i've been hovering around these forums for about 2 months waiting for a 2gb unit to come out. I got on the new joying unit right when it came out and purchased it on amazon right away. Their customer service was awesome, they made sure i had the tools needed to install it before they shipped it out (which i did). and it still only took 4 days to get to me (central USA).
Coming from a $600 pioneer head unit i could not be happier. This is awesome. If you guys would like some more pics, or information feel free to post here or email me at [email protected]. Also i am the only one to have a review on amazon so far
Won't let me put images cause i'm still new to posting.. so here is the URL broken up
imgur .com /a/7vSZX
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Click to collapse
I just installed an 8" in my Prius Plug-in, I couldn't get the steering wheel control and backup camera to work after 2 days of messing with it. So I took it to Best Buy to get that working. Tech support at Joying sucks and it takes 24 hours to get a reply from them.
Bluetooth connects to the phone, but music doesn't play, fm reception sucks, and it won't read my 128gig sdcard. I haven't had a chance to really get into it yet, but I will when I get it back from Best Buy and I'll repost then with a full report.
wanb1i said:
I just installed an 8" in my Prius Plug-in, I couldn't get the steering wheel control and backup camera to work after 2 days of messing with it. So I took it to Best Buy to get that working. Tech support at Joying sucks and it takes 24 hours to get a reply from them.
Bluetooth connects to the phone, but music doesn't play, fm reception sucks, and it won't read my 128gig sdcard. I haven't had a chance to really get into it yet, but I will when I get it back from Best Buy and I'll repost then with a full report.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The FM reception is fine in my car, that is weird that it is not going well for you, maybe you could give the antenna more power. To get the 128gb sd card to work i had to put it in my phone first, my phone formatted it correctly for android, then i threw it into my radio. If you'd like some help with other things i am more than happy if you email me.
Also their customer support has been good to me so far, yes it takes a while for them to reply because their business hours are when we are sleeping. lol
I'm not crazy about the 8"+ units because they look like a tablet duct taped to the dashboard. The DDIN 7" all-glass units are supposed to be available soon. It would be nice if they'd increase the screen size on the DDIN units, there is enough bezel to increase to at LEAST 7.5, maybe even 8". You certainly don't need the row of capacitive buttons on Android, since they're just duplicated from on-screen buttons anyway!
AeonSaber said:
Not sure if i need to root it as everything i want i think i can get without. i'm open to hearing arguements about why i should root it though.
I have not tested out multiple devices on the bluetooth, i can do that later today. I have not tested the Mic as i do not make phone calls often. The microphone it came with seems to be almost identical to the one that came with my pioneer, just like a $6 mic you can get on amazon.
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Did you end up testing the multiple bt connection ? Like with a phone and an obd2?
Is the microphone 'visible' to Android on these? Ie, can you use voice commands ('Ok google'), etc?
I can't believe I'm considering going back down this road, but my Newsmy Android box bit the dust (head unit part is OK), and I don't have the time or energy to really push my DIY project.
vincel892 said:
Did you end up testing the multiple bt connection ? Like with a phone and an obd2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not get around to trying this out. i did try to pair my ODB adapter and gave up after 5 secconds, was going to google it as this is my first android radio. Did not try out multiple phones. I will try to remember to do the ODB after work today but no promises.
Zaphod-Beeblebrox said:
Is the microphone 'visible' to Android on these? Ie, can you use voice commands ('Ok google'), etc?
I can't believe I'm considering going back down this road, but my Newsmy Android box bit the dust (head unit part is OK), and I don't have the time or energy to really push my DIY project.
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Click to collapse
I have not tried it. i'm new to android head units so i do not know where i would start that functionality.
AeonSaber said:
I have not tried it. i'm new to android head units so i do not know where i would start that functionality.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quickest thing to do would probably bring up some app (sound recorder?) that can use the MIC and see if it works. Google Maps, Google Search, etc.
I'm not familiar with the MTC series, but almost all of the android head units utilize an 'MCU' (in this case made my microntek) to control the analog audio sources, and mixes in the digital (Android) audio. That analog audio is typically not 'visible' to android (ie, you cannot record FM radio as the Android board only controls the operation of the radio through the MCU. It doesn't actually run that audio through an ADC back to Android.).
In most of the devices I've seen, the MIC port is wired to the Bluetooth HFP module, which is not actually part of the Android board. It's one of those 'analog sources' that the Android box can control through MCU commands, but the underlying I/O is invisible to the system.
How sturdy is it? I have a double din opening that is a little to small and would need to be trimmed to fit. I was thinking since the single din would be completely covered by the larger screen, I wouldn't need to modify the opening. Does it move when using it? I won't be able to stand it if it moves around or makes any rattle sounds. Thanks in advance for your input.
ravits said:
How sturdy is it? I have a double din opening that is a little to small and would need to be trimmed to fit. I was thinking since the single din would be completely covered by the larger screen, I wouldn't need to modify the opening. Does it move when using it? I won't be able to stand it if it moves around or makes any rattle sounds. Thanks in advance for your input.
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Click to collapse
Seems sturdy. the screen mounts on 4 points to the single din, they are fully adjustable. It does not move at all when i touch it.
Where did you order your unit from? Amazon or directly from Joying? I would rather order through amazon for the better customer service but if they aren't shipping until the end of nov/beginning of dec I would order through Joying to receive it sooner.
I was not sure where to post this because I kindof hijacked the Honda Connect Android thread with alternative solutions so I decided to create a new thread here as it seems more apropriate. I hope this will help others decide on an aftermarket unit that suit their needs.
The unit I bought and pictures with comments.
01.11.2018
I forgot to mention, there are no issues with porlarized sunglasses (vision impaired like I have, or regular). Usually LCD screens are polarized so if you have polarized glasses you only see the full display colors and brightness at a fixed angle 0 or 90 degrees (head straight or tilted to one side). This unit does not suffer from this issue like older phones did. (after posting I noticed I did mention this in my previous note )
28.10.2018
I'm really happy with the unit:
- response time is as fast as you expect it to be (as in touch - do stuff vs. click - you got it, hold on it's comming, almost there, just keep spinning windows/macos stuff)
- display is bright/direct sunlight, polarized sunglasses not an issue
- you can disable most of the inputs that source (steerwheel button) cycles through, except of A/V in (which I think is the LaneWatch camera)
- switching between radio, music, Waze and other apps is instant
- Waze only crashed once during a 450km ride, in the same area it crashes on my phone as well ... really Google ?
In the end I guess it's all about personal prefference about the preinstalled software which you can replace with apps from play store (or other sources) to your liking, so I'm not gonna comment on that as most of the defaults are fine for me it's fine. There are however a vew caveats to consider:
- Since I don't use my google account and created a new one for the unit I don't have access to my contacts. Altho the unit syncs your contacts via bluetooth to the phone app, 'OK Google' cannot use that.
- The default phone app does not have any favourites options, so your best bet is to use the last recent calls. But that list is not synced with your phone, it's only the list from when your phone was connected with the car (tried MTCDTelephonyBridge, did not work).
- There are some volume issues which I could not figure out (yet ). Navigation volume is set on MIXIN and has a range from -10 to + 10. At first I had it on -5, it was very low, then I moved to +7, fine for a while until it became too loud, lowerd to +5 and it was very low, bumped it again to +7 and it was the same low. I wish they would do the 'smart' thing like the original HU and just output navigation to front left speaker (that's the only clever thing I noticed in the decade old default Honda unit)
- Only one screw can be used to fix the unit, the original ones don't fit as they have huge integrated washers. You don't really need to fix it as it won't go anywhere but still, worth mentioning. Also I wanted to insulate all the cables with the same kind of foam that you find around air conditioning pipes, so that the cables don't touch the back plate of the unit. After taking the dashboard off again, I realized there is a ton of space there so the cables will not touch the back of the unit holding the radiator, which anyway is just for the TDA amp, so there was no reason to. If you go for a 2din unit, extra space will be smaller but still plenty of room on the bottom part.
24.10.2018
A few notes of my initial experience after installing the new unit:
1. First and most important for me, the 2 USB ports of the car have different connectors (mindblown). They look the same, but one of them has a different gap (or slit, not sure of the exact word) in one of the corners as you can see in this picture. The adapter provided only fits the gray connector. I'm not sure if the 2nd adapter that I ordered will fit the green one or not (maybe with some tunning it will fit). Now, it's not that important for everyone as you can still very easy pull the 2 other USB ports in the glove compartment (which I did), but now I have 2 unused slots: USB and HDMI.
2. For OCD types, the unit I got has a 9" screen (instead of 8" as described) so the frame that holds the part of the dashboard that you need to remove in order to install the HU stands on top of the screen covering the right part of the screen bezel and the 2nd mic instead of being around the screen (I hope that makes sense). The front pannel itself (bezels included) is a bit larger than the hole in the dashboard. This results in the actual screen being buried about 1cm below the dashboard line (about 5mm more than the original one). This interfeers a bit with the access to the 'hardware' buttons on the left side, but as a driver you don't need them as you can do all that from the steering wheel controlls. One side benefit could be that there is less sunlight hitting the screen. I will update with daytime pictures.
3. There are only 2 screws that can fix the new unit, but the original ones don't fit because of the embeded washers (which can not be removed from the screws ... why ????). The unit will not go anyware thanks to the fitting holes and the dashboard being linked with frame I mentioned before. I will still go look for some replacement screws, just in case.
4. Time for the good part. The difference between the original unit and this one ... day and night. Everithing is so fast and works as it's supposed to. Even the cold boot seems faster (20s or so) than the hot start of the original unit. I still have to test the ergonomics while driving and the long term stability of the whole system, but the first impressions are very positive. You would still have to configure a few things here and there to match you preferences or missing features (like proportion between navigation and music and sound level for different sources - like music and bluetooth, missing lane watch camera - which defaults to on and when you signal right unit will show a warning because of missing camera signal, direction lines when using the reverse camera - which are off by default etc.). There are a ton of options to configure. Plus you get some extra stuff like status of open doors, status of parking sensors, AC feedback (it also has an app for control but does not seem to do anything, I will dig deeper at some point but I don't find it that usefull, still cool tho), automatic door locking when you pass a set speed limit (I have not tested this yet), and probably some others which I am eager to discover.
I will update this post to share my experience with the new unit.
kind3r said:
I was not sure where to post this because I kindof hijacked the Honda Connect Android thread with alternative solutions so I decided to create a new thread here as it seems more apropriate. I hope this will help others decide on an aftermarket unit that suit their needs.
The unit I bought and pictures with comments.
24.10.2018
A few notes of my initial experience after installing the new unit:
1. First and most important for me, the 2 USB ports of the car have different connectors (mindblown). They look the same, but one of them has a different gap (or slit, not sure of the exact word) in one of the corners as you can see in this picture. The adapter provided only fits the gray connector. I'm not sure if the 2nd adapter that I ordered will fit the green one or not (maybe with some tunning it will fit). Now, it's not that important for everyone as you can still very easy pull the 2 other USB ports in the glove compartment (which I did), but now I have 2 unused slots: USB and HDMI.
2. For OCD types, the unit I got has a 9" screen (instead of 8" as described) so the frame that holds the part of the dashboard that you need to remove in order to install the HU stands on top of the screen covering the right part of the screen bezel and the 2nd mic instead of being around the screen (I hope that makes sense). The front pannel itself (bezels included) is a bit larger than the hole in the dashboard. This results in the actual screen being buried about 1cm below the dashboard line (about 5mm more than the original one). This interfeers a bit with the access to the 'hardware' buttons on the left side, but as a driver you don't need them as you can do all that from the steering wheel controlls. One side benefit could be that there is less sunlight hitting the screen. I will update with daytime pictures.
3. There are only 2 screws that can fix the new unit, but the original ones don't fit because of the embeded washers (which can not be removed from the screws ... why ????). The unit will not go anyware thanks to the fitting holes and the dashboard being linked with frame I mentioned before. I will still go look for some replacement screws, just in case.
4. Time for the good part. The difference between the original unit and this one ... day and night. Everithing is so fast and works as it's supposed to. Even the cold boot seems faster (20s or so) than the hot start of the original unit. I still have to test the ergonomics while driving and the long term stability of the whole system, but the first impressions are very positive. You would still have to configure a few things here and there to match you preferences or missing features (like proportion between navigation and music and sound level for different sources - like music and bluetooth, missing lane watch camera - which defaults to on and when you signal right unit will show a warning because of missing camera signal, direction lines when using the reverse camera - which are off by default etc.). There are a ton of options to configure. Plus you get some extra stuff like status of open doors, status of parking sensors, AC feedback (it also has an app for control but does not seem to do anything, I will dig deeper at some point but I don't find it that usefull, still cool tho), automatic door locking when you pass a set speed limit (I have not tested this yet), and probably some others which I am eager to discover.
I will update this post to share my experience with the new unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you sure you asked for the correct unit or dasaita sent to you the correct unit?
Enviado desde mi SM-G950F mediante Tapatalk
ikerg said:
Are you sure you asked for the correct unit or dasaita sent to you the correct unit?
Enviado desde mi SM-G950F mediante Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you be more specific ? There is a link to the unit I bought and pictures in the first post. I asked the seller about compatibility and other stuff before purchasing and he assured me that all is ok. I'm not saing I'm not happy with the unit, the small differences don't bother me, but others might be bugged by those details. Overall I'm just sharing my experience while highlighting differences between expectations (aka product description) and reality
@ kind3r: bought one for my CRV also.. got the same issue with those 3 connections I think its the 2 usb & 1 hdmi connection in the console box of our car. I'm currently looking for a solution for the AC control, and IMID display setting for the steering wheel. I haven't really tinkered with the setting so maybe its just setting or connection issue. Could you pls. update me if you discover the AC thing or other features that you have unlock with your unit.
Is the wheel button works good??
hafidelbazdari said:
Is the weel button works good??
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Click to collapse
What's a weel button?
Gesendet von meinem Redmi Note 5 mit Tapatalk
Wifi and Bluetooth..how to they going for you..
Internal speaker for hands free or using external?
What phone are you connecting to it..apple or Android?
kind3r said:
....the 2 USB ports of the car have different connectors...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe that's because one is for charging? So they separated them via different connectors.
kind3r said:
2. For OCD types, the unit I got has a 9" screen (instead of 8" as described)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At the Dasaita Official Store they sell it as a 9" unit.
At the MTKNAVI Store they sell the "same" units.
Main advantage of MTKNAVI store: they ship from EU/Germany. Means no trouble about custom and taxes.
Thanks a lot for creating this thread. I am looking forward to hearing and seeing more from your Dasaita/HR-V experience.
HNDXCRV said:
@ kind3r: bought one for my CRV also.. got the same issue with those 3 connections I think its the 2 usb & 1 hdmi connection in the console box of our car. I'm currently looking for a solution for the AC control, and IMID display setting for the steering wheel. I haven't really tinkered with the setting so maybe its just setting or connection issue. Could you pls. update me if you discover the AC thing or other features that you have unlock with your unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it's just so that they only fit one way so service people don't reverse them. Both did the same charging and connection, mirrorlink etc. so I can't really tell if there is actually a difference between them.
The only way I see a connection with the IMID display (mine is next to the speedometer) is via the canbus. I think that traffic is encrypted tho because I saw no mention about it anywhere so far. I'm not even sure if you can set the clock. I will do some more research on the subject.
My unit has an AC app, but it does not control anything. I will dig into that as well, tho I don't find it useful.
hafidelbazdari said:
Is the wheel button works good??
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Click to collapse
Yes, all wheel buttons work but some with different functions. Hangup button also works as back, source switches between a lot of (some useless for me) apps like the ones for AV inputs but the navigation app is not included (I wish you could set a list of apps to cycle through), the task switcher that used to switch between nav, audio and phone now is the home button, the shortcut button acts as the old android menu button and the voice command does mute. There is no long press 2nd function except for left and right in radio app. I guess installing MTCDTools could improve the situation but I'm ok with the standard config.
dgcruzing said:
Wifi and Bluetooth..how to they going for you..
Internal speaker for hands free or using external?
What phone are you connecting to it..apple or Android?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use a phone that sits in the truck for internet via WiFi, no issues so far. For bluetooth/handsfree I use an iPhone, sound quaility is very good both ways, way better than the stock one. Time will tell.
I'm not sure what you mean by internal speaker. It uses the car sound system and speakers and I also connected the external mic that came with the unit and placed it close to the ignition button.
Manfred.62 said:
Maybe that's because one is for charging? So they separated them via different connectors.
At the Dasaita Official Store they sell it as a 9" unit.
At the MTKNAVI Store they sell the "same" units.
Main advantage of MTKNAVI store: they ship from EU/Germany. Means no trouble about custom and taxes.
Thanks a lot for creating this thread. I am looking forward to hearing and seeing more from your Dasaita/HR-V experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the taxes thing was a big advantage for me as they usually ship with DHL so you have to pay custom tax and also DHL tax for handling custom tax for you. My unit was shipped from UK, still EU for the next 6 month or so . Also I initially wrote to Dasaita Official Store and I still have not got a reply. MTKNAVI replied within a few hours.
kind3r said:
I think it's just so that they only fit one way so service people don't reverse them. Both did the same charging and connection, mirrorlink etc. so I can't really tell if there is actually a difference between them.
The only way I see a connection with the IMID display (mine is next to the speedometer) is via the canbus. I think that traffic is encrypted tho because I saw no mention about it anywhere so far. I'm not even sure if you can set the clock. I will do some more research on the subject.
My unit has an AC app, but it does not control anything. I will dig into that as well, tho I don't find it useful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wanted to change the date & time in my IMID display thats why im looking for workaround.. AC app? what's the name of the app? is it built in? i want to see the climate settings for novelty
kind3r said:
I think it's just so that they only fit one way so service people don't reverse them. Both did the same charging and connection, mirrorlink etc. so I can't really tell if there is actually a difference between them.
The only way I see a connection with the IMID display (mine is next to the speedometer) is via the canbus. I think that traffic is encrypted tho because I saw no mention about it anywhere so far. I'm not even sure if you can set the clock. I will do some more research on the subject.
My unit has an AC app, but it does not control anything. I will dig into that as well, tho I don't find it useful.
Yes, all wheel buttons work but some with different functions. Hangup button also works as back, source switches between a lot of (some useless for me) apps like the ones for AV inputs but the navigation app is not included (I wish you could set a list of apps to cycle through), the task switcher that used to switch between nav, audio and phone now is the home button, the shortcut button acts as the old android menu button and the voice command does mute. There is no long press 2nd function except for left and right in radio app. I guess installing MTCDTools could improve the situation but I'm ok with the standard config.
I use a phone that sits in the truck for internet via WiFi, no issues so far. For bluetooth/handsfree I use an iPhone, sound quaility is very good both ways, way better than the stock one. Time will tell.
I'm not sure what you mean by internal speaker. It uses the car sound system and speakers and I also connected the external mic that came with the unit and placed it close to the ignition button.
Yeah, the taxes thing was a big advantage for me as they usually ship with DHL so you have to pay custom tax and also DHL tax for handling custom tax for you. My unit was shipped from UK, still EU for the next 6 month or so . Also I initially wrote to Dasaita Official Store and I still have not got a reply. MTKNAVI replied within a few hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello, For the bluetooth connection, did you use the built-in microphone of the car? if so, Did you add an adapter to operate the integrated microphone of the car?
hafidelbazdari said:
Hello, For the bluetooth connection, did you use the built-in microphone of the car? if so, Did you add an adapter to operate the integrated microphone of the car?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I used the external mic provided with the new unit.
kind3r said:
No, I used the external mic provided with the new unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you send me please a picture of this mic?
hafidelbazdari said:
Can you send me please a picture of this mic?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can see it in this picture on the left side (near the speedometer): https://photos.google.com/share/AF1...?key=cy04WUVYY3RrYTBYSXM0Q1RjSFEzd2RNM1h1ZEd3
Also you can see it in the description of the Dasaita unit at Aliexpress.
Manfred.62 said:
You can see it in this picture on the left side (near the speedometer): https://photos.google.com/share/AF1...?key=cy04WUVYY3RrYTBYSXM0Q1RjSFEzd2RNM1h1ZEd3
Also you can see it in the description of the Dasaita unit at Aliexpress.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thank you, if we have any idea to hide it .it will be better . What the you think?
hafidelbazdari said:
Ok thank you, if we have any idea to hide it .it will be better . What the you think?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Using adapter cables. So one can use the inbuilt microphone and GPS module. We just have to find the correct cables via ebay, Aliexpress...
@kind3r
did you found a connector at the Dasaita harness with 12pin (instead of 14pin at EU version of Connect unit)? That must be connector D in the attached file. Found this info in a german HRV forum. He didn't use this connector (no problems so far).
hafidelbazdari said:
Can you send me please a picture of this mic?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sligthly better bicture of the mic in the final position.
Manfred.62 said:
Using adapter cables. So one can use the inbuilt microphone and GPS module. We just have to find the correct cables via ebay, Aliexpress...
@kind3r
did you found a connector at the Dasaita harness with 12pin (instead of 14pin at EU version of Connect unit)? That must be connector D in the attached file. Found this info in a german HRV forum. He didn't use this connector (no problems so far).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, nice find. I was actually looking for that before buying a unit but could not find any schematics.
The back pannel arrangement of the connectors is not similar to my original unit see a picture of the back of mine here, but connectors seem to be more or less the same. Now, not all the connectors on the car have a corespondend on the harness and viceversa. The connector you are reffering to must be the Sirius XM receiver (? satelite radio) which as far as I know is not available in EU. Also, the USB connectors look the same in your document but in my case they are a bit different by just a small notch. What is the functionality you are interested in so I can tell you if it works for me or not.
On a side note, I have tested the unit during the last few days using the auto sleep feature, witch does not do a shutdown + cold boot so the unit starts in 1-2 seconds after you start the car. There is still a small delay after that when you get notifications about the SD card and USB stick that are being mounted so that's another 2-3 seconds until playback resumes, so it's still faster than the cold boot which takes around 25 seconds. But as android tends to be like windows on the long term, I will stick with the cold boot 'mode'.
As @HNDXCRV and others mentioned, I could not find a way to set the clock on the factory display. But as DST changed in my country, with a big bang I might add (earthquake during the night, could not sleep after that :/) to my surprise the car's clock changed as well. So I guess there is some communication from the HU, at least for time. My guess is playing in Factory Settings could result in AC being controlled from the unit as well. But I don't really see the point in doing that since dedicated hardware buttons are better than touching a display.
Some were concerned about the performance of the display in direct sunlight. Today was a sunny day, I took a trip to the seaside and I can tell you I had no issues looking at the display with my polarised sunglases on. Also the angle of the polarisation did not seem to matter as tilting my head did not do anything to the brightness level or colors, so kudos for that, it's a really nice display. At some point I was looking through the settings and realized it was only at 75% brightness.
Overall I really love this unit. Of course it's not perfect and there is some room for improvement here and there, but there are no words to describe the difference of (first and foremost for me) performance, sound quality, level of customization, size and quality of the display. Most of the small things that bother me are due to software ergonomics say like the radio app having a dedicated button for stereo lock, instead of something more useful (not that anything comes to mind right now). You have to customize a bit to your liking, I have uninstalled/disabled apps that cycle via the source button on the steering wheel, changed the volumes of navigation, radio, music, a2dp etc. to my personal preference. Also there are a ton of replacement apps for the stock ones, play store is full of choices if you have enough time to try them out, like launchers, dialers, music apps etc.
I still have to update to the latest Android version (unit came with 20180809, latest is 20181011, but with newer MCU 2.98_1) but since there is no reason to, I will hold off for the moment. I am tempted to do a full reset of the unit as there are some leftovers from the seller testing the unit like paierd phones etc. (not that it matters too much).
@kind3r
thanks a lot for your infos. Seems like this device is really worth it. I can not decide yet.
What I like to do if...
connect the original GPS (via adapter, found in ebay)
connect the original microphone (via adapter, not found yet)
Questions:
the radio has RDS fully working (channel names, radio text, traffic TP/TA) ?
is the Dasaita usable without internet connection (only radio or mp3) or does it throw error messages?
does "Ok Google" work? Or do we need the MtcDialer
Because of updates: maybe it's best to do it at the beginning.
For the GPS adaptor it will still take around 2 weeks to get to me so I can post some feedback about it.
I could not find any reference in the connectors for the integrated mic. I'm not sure if an adapter exists. At first I thought this will bother me but it tursn out it's not really that big of a deal. Sound quality is way better than with the original mic/HU combination.
RDS is working but unfortunatelly I cannot test traffic as it is not available in my country. The radio app has switches to enable disable TA and TP but since there is no broadcast for that ... they don't do anything for me.
It should not throw errors without an internet connection but for me the whole point was to use it with Waze for the realtime traffic information. There is a version of iGO preinstalled with Europe maps on an 8G SD card. I will probably buy a bigger card that can fit the iGO maps and music so I have an offline navigation as a backup just in case.
'OK Google' is working but unfortunatelly I think it uses the contacts from the google account and does not use the contacts synced via bluetooth from the paired phone. Since I created a new account for the car I don't have any contacts but I will add some just to test. MTCDialer did not work for me, it always crashes on launch.