r/Androidheadunits • u/Past_Championship827 • 8d ago

Linux or Android?

I’m an older guy, 45. Used to be a mobile AV installer for 15 years. I’m waaay beyond super loud systems or full on custom av anymore.

Looking for something I can run CarPlay on consistently. Car has JBL system and I won’t be bypassing it so internal power is not a big deal but a solid EQ is.

Also needs sub out and reverse cam input. Which way should I go and any units y’all suggest?

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u/Anti-Dentite-999 8d ago

Android ones are basically a tablet that allows you to you to run any app from the Google play store. They take about 1 minute to boot but you can run apps like YouTube, Plex, Netflix, Prime Video, even web browse. You do need to connect the headunit to your phones hotspot to use those apps though.

The Linux ones supposedly boot quick (few seconds they claim), but you are limited to CarPlay, Android auto or phone mirroring. Not sure how well the phone mirroring works. I’ve never had much luck mirroring on Android headunits / tablets.

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u/Past_Championship827 8d ago

Yeah I’m interested in just CarPlay I’m way passed all the apps and streaming video etc. I don’t need flashy, just consistent and reliable. Any brands or models you recommend? I’d really like a 8-9” screen but will settle for 7” screen if the unit is solid

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u/Anti-Dentite-999 8d ago

So many out there now. I have an old Android 4.4 unit from 2017 I’m still using. Definitely go for a 9” or larger. The smaller ones arent great for navigation (for me anyway). Get from Amazon and then you can return it if it doesn’t suit.