This New Adapter Converts Android Auto and CarPlay to Full Android

The benefit is obvious, as users no longer have to rely on cables to run Android Auto and CarPlay, so it's enough to keep the phone in a backpack or in the pocket for the car experience to load on the screen.

Not long ago, I told you about a device called CARLUEX, whose goal was more ambitious. It used a standard CarPlay connection to run full Android on the infotainment screen. I already reviewed the device and discovered that everything works as promised, minus the occasional overheating and slowdowns happening whenever you throw more demanding tasks at it (such as playing 4K videos).

A new similar device made its way to Indiegogo earlier this week with a similar promise.

Ziro DriveSync says it turns Android Auto and CarPlay into full Android, so you can have a full computer on your infotainment screen.

The device looks similar to CARLUEX, and to be honest, I can hardly spot any breaking difference between the two devices. It's a clone that promises the same thing, also packing a SIM card slot to access the Internet without the need for turning your phone into a hotspot. It boasts Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, a card slot for additional storage, and uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon SDM6125 chip.

The device runs Android 10, which isn't the most recent version of Google's operating system but should be enough for the typical driver who wants to launch Google Maps, Spotify, Waze, and a few other apps.

The main selling point of this kind of device is the full Android. Compared to Android Auto and CarPlay, which have several restrictions in place for safety reasons (for example, you can't watch Netflix and YouTube videos unless you unlock them using more complex methods), a full Android device removes any app restriction. You can install anything on the Google Play Store or available as an APK, including video apps, games, and so on.

During my time with CARLUEX, I noticed that these devices also lack safety restrictions when the vehicle starts moving, letting applications like YouTube continue the video playback. It's a major distraction source, as drivers would be tempted to look at the screen – not to mention that playing video on the screen at night could make you temporarily blind, blocking the driver from seeing part of the road in front.

Despite looking like a clone, Ziro looks intriguing, but I still believe you should take its promises with a pinch of salt. The device seeks crowdfunding support on Indiegogo, and anyone can secure the device with a 130 Euro donation. The device should start shipping in January next year.