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Upgrade Android Auto to Full Android with This Small USB Computer

The popularity of Android Auto keeps increasing, and this is no surprise given more carmakers equip their models with support for this system.
CarDroid Android PC 19 photos
Photo: Indiegogo
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But at the same time, it’s not a secret that Android Auto comes with its own set of limitations, many of them created by its actual purpose. The app is supposed to be used in a car, so naturally, you’re not allowed to run a series of apps, such as video players, YouTube, and Netflix.

CarDroid is a small gadget that’s meant to give Android Auto a massive overhaul by simply turning it into a fully-featured Android version.

The first time we wrote about CarDroid was in early September when the project was only in its early days and its makers only announced a fundraising campaign on Indiegogo. But this week, the project went live for crowdfunding support, and this means we can finally have a look at how it’s supposed to upgrade your Android Auto experience.

First and foremost, this is a fully-featured Android PC that runs an octa-core A53 chip clocked at 2.0 GHz. And paired with 4GB RAM. The device runs Android 9 and features 64GB storage, Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi, microSD card support for an extra of 128GB storage, integrated GPS, and plug and play support.

So what it does is transform Android Auto into full Android 9.0 by simply plugging the device into the USB port in your car. Keep in mind that the vehicle needs to be equipped with Android Auto support, otherwise it won’t launch.

The parent company promises frequent firmware updates, which would obviously come in very handy in order to deliver new Android versions that would upgrade the experience behind the wheel even further.

In case you’re wondering why you need full Android in the car, just think that you’re no longer limited to a specific set of apps, as everything that runs on your phone can also be launched on the head unit. A smartphone would no longer be required at all, though you’ll have to find a way to provide CarDroid with Internet access, so turning a mobile device into a hotspot is the easiest way to do it.

The good news is that the project has already been fully funded on Indiegogo, and if you want to be one of the first getting CarDroid, a $69 perk should secure you a slot in the December 2020 shipping batch.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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