Android Auto, Waze and more: aftermarket screen with Android 8.1 Install & Review

[Maverik259]

So for those that have done this successfully. Do you use Waze or google maps? Do you use it via the Nav function or via CarPlay or android auto instead?

Just curious if the extra $100 for CarPlay is actually needed if all I wanted CarPlay for was to get Waze and google maps on my main screen. Don't care about messaging and Siri etc.

Also does steering wheel controls work to change radio presets while say in Waze is google maps? I listen to radio primarily during commute. Not music from phone etc.

[Fab's]

I use mainly Waze, sometimes maps, either directly or through Android Auto integrated in the unit (not via the phone).
I only use the head unit, not the phone, so no you don't need the connector, except if you have an iPhone and want the Car play experience.

Yes, radio controls will work as you select radio as audio and will still have Waze on your screen. You will just not have the navigation voice at the same time.

[Maverik259]

What launchers are people using now with good success? I think most of the ones I've seen look rather dumb and hoakie. Is the simulated id5/6 they use considered a "launcher"?

[Fab's]

yes it's a launcher
Smart launcher is the one I enjoyed the most, but due to the bug I have with the sound, I use the default launcher and then start Android Auto. Can't wait for the new version BTW, look really great.

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by Fab's

yes it's a launcher
Smart launcher is the one I enjoyed the most, but due to the bug I have with the sound, I use the default launcher and then start Android Auto. Can't wait for the new version BTW, look really great.

Oh nice. The launcher or an update to android? I saw 4x4 was offering 9.0 already but not Avin themselves. thought that was strange.

[SupersixM]

What would be strange about that if you wouldn’t mind me asking? I assume they all are from aliexpress. I think what makes 4x4 different to Avin is they are actually tweaking their units on there own through integrated tech that’s why they’re first to offer ID7 and Android 9. And maybe that’s why theirs cost 1/3 more. Avin is just repackaging and selling for the same price as aliexpress or cheaper. Again , just an assumption.

[sunny_j]

Originally Posted by Maverik259

What launchers are people using now with good success? I think most of the ones I've seen look rather dumb and hoakie. Is the simulated id5/6 they use considered a "launcher"?

I use nova launcher

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by SupersixM

What would be strange about that if you wouldn't mind me asking? I assume they all are from aliexpress. I think what makes 4x4 different to Avin is they are actually tweaking their units on there own through integrated tech that's why they're first to offer ID7 and Android 9. And maybe that's why theirs cost 1/3 more. Avin is just repackaging and selling for the same price as aliexpress or cheaper. Again , just an assumption.

You're comparing apples to oranges here. They don't open the units and change any hardware. They ya be first with software/firmware but that still doesn't warrant an EXACT identical unit being 1/3 more. Their 9.0 version is an extra $180 on top of the 1/3. The more for 9.0 I understand as that's an upgrade. But being more than anyone else just because is dumb. Oh ya and when asked about it twice I've gotten ZERO response which means there is NO reason for them to justify. I have no tolerance for companies like this.

[SupersixM]

Originally Posted by Maverik259

You're comparing apples to oranges here. They don't open the units and change any hardware. They ya be first with software/firmware but that still doesn't warrant an EXACT identical unit being 1/3 more. Their 9.0 version is an extra $180 on top of the 1/3. The more for 9.0 I understand as that's an upgrade. But being more than anyone else just because is dumb. Oh ya and when asked about it twice I've gotten ZERO response which means there is NO reason for them to justify. I have no tolerance for companies like this.

I’m 100% with you on overpricing for no other reason than greed. But they can’t be the only game in town offering 9.0 ID7 on 4G. Unless they’re just advertising w delayed shipment. I wish Avin would say more. I wanna get me a unit but rather not overpay. Don’t wanna buy a unit from Avin now and a new one come out next week either.

[SupersixM]

Originally Posted by sunny_j

I use nova launcher

This looks soo neat. What is theater an Avin or another brand?

[sunny_j]

Originally Posted by SupersixM

This looks soo neat. What is theater an Avin or another brand?

It's the unit 8.1 from 4x4 shop. I'd rather pay extra for peace of mind if I have issues, I can reach out to the tech support and I get a reply within 24 hours. It has the black anti glare screen Avin didn't offer. Also reading the issues ppl have with the Avin units kind scared me away

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by sunny_j

It's the unit 8.1 from 4x4 shop. I'd rather pay extra for peace of mind if I have issues, I can reach out to the tech support and I get a reply within 24 hours. It has the black anti glare screen Avin didn't offer. Also reading the issues ppl have with the Avin units kind scared me away

It's the same unit Avin sells. I promise you. But I get it. Just not worth their inflated prices for someone to respond to an email. Avin has no issues with customer service and has replaced many units when needed from what I've read.

[SupersixM]

Must admit 4x4shop screen looks a lot better.

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by SupersixM

Must admit 4x4shop screen looks a lot better.

Oh ya? Would be nice to know if they use a better screen. But they don't seem to want to answer any questions.

Where did you see to compare screens?

[SupersixM]

Originally Posted by Maverik259

Oh ya? Would be nice to know if they use a better screen. But they don't seem to want to answer any questions.

Where did you see to compare screens?

It’s obvious sunny j screen is different to what’s being offered by Avin. And YouTube.

[sunny_j]

The screen I have has a black frame and there's definitely less glare than the Avin screen

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by SupersixM

It’s obvious sunny j screen is different to what’s being offered by Avin. And YouTube.

Lol what makes it "obvious." But you've never seen them in person. Gotcha. Thanks for the info.

[SupersixM]

Originally Posted by Maverik259

Lol what makes it "obvious." But you've never seen them in person. Gotcha. Thanks for the info.

Well if a black frame doesn't contrast to a silver frame then I don't know the definition of obvious. I don't think I need to have it in my hand physically to see the difference. And, gotcha back!! 😭

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by sunny_j

The screen I have has a black frame and there's definitely less glare than the Avin screen

Anti glare screen is not worth $300 to me and they're frame is same as Avin friend. Check their website. The units are identical. And if you need an anti glare screen Avin sells the screen protectors. This really don't have anything to do with the screen quality...again thanks for the input.

It you by the android 9.0 for another $180 then yes you get an HD 720p screen FYI. But I'm not comparing these two as I've already stated. And that's $900 for that and CarPlay. Lol cmon.

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by SupersixM

Well if a black frame doesn't contrast to a silver frame then I don't know the definition of obvious. I don't think I need to have it in my hand physically to see the difference. And, gotcha back!! 😭

They don't have a black trim....Looks silver to me.

But it doesn't matter. Trim or not. Doesn't warrant the price difference. I would love to see some specs to actually back their price inflation. Not speculation or opinions of people who don't have a android unit to begin with. No offense. But your input on this matter isn't proving useful.

[SupersixM]

Originally Posted by Maverik259

They don't have a black trim....Looks silver to me.

But it doesn't matter. Trim or not. Doesn't warrant the price difference. I would love to see some specs to actually back their price inflation. Not speculation or opinions of people who don't have a android unit to begin with. No offense. But your input on this matter isn't proving useful.

Black trim on Sunny J screen ......black trim on optional anti-reflective screen from 4x4shop.. where he said he got his from.

I know I need glasses, but god damn even I could I see the difference. Im not gonna throw shade or hurl insults cus well, it's the internet. And you don't have to physically have something in your possession to compare online. I got a laugh out of that.

And yes I agree with you. 4x4shop prices are a bit excessive. but then again , isnt everything these days that's for BMWs.

And how did we get to this. I'm just looking for the better unit. Guess I'll wait til July and see if AvinUsa steps up.

[Maverik259]

Originally Posted by SupersixM

Black trim on Sunny J screen ......black trim on optional anti-reflective screen from 4x4shop.. where he said he got his from.

I know I need glasses, but god damn even I could I see the difference. Im not gonna throw shade or hurl insults cus well, it's the internet. And you don't have to physically have something in your possession to compare online. I got a laugh out of that.

And yes I agree with you. 4x4shop prices are a bit excessive. but then again , isnt everything these days that's for BMWs.

And how did we get to this. I'm just looking for the better unit. Guess I'll wait til July and see if AvinUsa steps up.

So despite them not answering I did some more research on their site and dig up some videos they actually did comparing the two. Not sure if ones Avin but they compare non anti glare screen to anti glare screen.

And you are correct the anti glare does come with a larger screen that's actually bezel-less which makes it appear to have a black colored one.

What is nice is if you get their Android 9 pie version it does come with an HD screen as mentioned before. For a $180 cost of course. Also discovered they charge a $20 handling fee when you look to purchase anything. Which obviously I find laughable. Wtf is a handling fee for. It's like selling me a bike and then charging me to get it to the post office. And then charging me again to ship it to me. Haha

Oh well.