Open Headunit, previously known as Headunit Revived or Headunit Reloaded, is available for .99 and .99 respectively. To transform an old tablet into a functional head unit, simply purchase your preferred app and install it on the device you wish to use as a display. Connecting the two devices is straightforward: utilize a USB OTG cable and grant the necessary permissions on your phone or transmitting device. Once connected, navigate to the app on your display, select the USB connection, and ensure your phone is chosen. Android Auto should initiate seamlessly.
You can also connect your devices wirelessly
For those who prefer a tidier setup without the clutter of cables, both Open Headunit and Headunit Reloaded offer wireless connectivity options for select compatible devices. According to the Open Headunit GitHub, users can connect their devices wirelessly through various methods. Options include using a wireless Android Auto dongle, establishing a native Wi-Fi P2P connection, or utilizing a third-party application known as Wireless Helper. Similarly, Wi-Fi Launcher can be paired with Headunit Reloaded for a comparable experience.
If you find yourself without two devices, consider leveraging the Android Auto developer server, which allows you to broadcast a self-hosted server to run Android Auto directly on a single device. This setup enables your display to operate Android Auto independently, without any external connections. While this method has not been personally tested, it presents an intriguing opportunity for those with older tablets or phones, although performance may vary based on hardware capabilities. If you have an unused device, experimenting with this approach could yield interesting results, as repurposing old Android gadgets can lead to innovative uses, such as creating a remote control or an additional display.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box
Utilizing Android Auto at your desktop or workspace opens up a realm of possibilities that extend beyond the conventional. Common applications include reading and responding to text messages, checking notifications, monitoring local weather updates, and enjoying music, podcasts, or audiobooks—all while minimizing distractions. The same features that enhance long drives can also streamline your workday. Imagine having messages read aloud, conducting quick web searches for research, or accessing smart home controls like Google Home, all while keeping your hands free for cooking, cleaning, or DIY projects.
Setting up an old phone, tablet, or compatible device in creative ways can enhance your workspace. Consider propping it up with a stand, mounting it on a wall, or attaching it to the edge of a desk. While there are numerous essential apps designed to combat procrastination that don’t require multiple devices, nothing quite compares to having a dedicated touchscreen dashboard. The primary advantage of using two screens lies in their hardware agnosticism; virtually any device can serve as a display. As long as your old device supports the head unit apps, its processing power or RAM limitations become irrelevant, as it functions merely as a remote display. This approach breathes new life into neglected Android gadgets, transforming them from dust collectors into valuable tools for everyday use.
