Repurposing an old Android tablet can be a clever way to enhance your driving experience by transforming it into a DIY Android Auto head unit. This innovative project requires just one app: Headunit Revived. This open-source application serves as the Android Auto receiver, mimicking the functionality of modern car dashboard displays. By connecting your Android phone to the tablet via USB cable or Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, you can seamlessly navigate using Google Maps, along with access to essential apps like Spotify, Facebook Messenger, and Google Calendar. This solution eliminates the need for an expensive head unit, allowing you to utilize an old tablet instead.
Headunit Revived is compatible with both Android tablets and phones, provided the device is updated to at least Android 4.1. The app can be downloaded from the Play Store for a one-time fee of , or you can opt for a free installation using the APK file available on the project’s GitHub page. Additionally, it can also be used on older Amazon Fire tablets, which can be set up through the Amazon Appstore for .70. Below is a step-by-step guide to getting Headunit Revived operational on your old Android or Amazon Fire tablet.
Set up Headunit Revived on your old Android tablet
Before connecting your Android phone, it’s essential to set up Headunit Revived on your tablet. Follow these steps:
- Grant the necessary permissions for location access and audio recording.
- Agree to the Safety & Liability terms by tapping “I Understand and Agree.”
- Begin the Quick Setup Wizard by selecting “Start.”
- Choose your tablet’s screen size; if uncertain, consult your tablet’s specifications online.
- Select the device orientation, preferably Landscape, as it aligns with standard Android Auto head units. Note that portrait mode may cause issues with Google Maps.
- Apply the optimization settings.
Headunit Revived will automatically adjust the Android Auto layout based on your tablet’s specifications and chosen orientation. If the optimized setup isn’t to your liking, you can modify the default settings in the app’s Settings section. Options include enabling right-hand drive, adjusting UI scaling, setting auto dark mode, and changing screen resolution. You can also automate the app’s launch and connection based on specific conditions.
Connect your phone to Android Auto via cable
Once Headunit Revived is operational, your tablet is ready to connect with your phone. The app provides two connection methods: wired and wireless, with the wired option being more straightforward and reliable. To connect your Android phone to the Android Auto receiver, follow these steps:
- Use a suitable USB cable to connect your phone to the tablet.
- Open the USB notification on your phone’s Notification Panel.
- Select “This device” under “USB controlled by,” verifying your identity if necessary.
- Set “Use USB for” to “Transferring files/Android Auto.”
- Launch Headunit Revived on the tablet.
- Tap on USB.
- Allow the app to access your connected phone when prompted.
- Select Headunit Revived as the app.
- On your phone, tap “Continue” to initiate Android Auto.
If you encounter connection issues, such as the tablet not recognizing the phone, consider trying a different cable that supports data transfer.
Pair your phone with Android Auto wirelessly
If you prefer to avoid cables, a wireless connection is also an option. The developer recommends using Wi-Fi Direct, which does not require an external hotspot or Wi-Fi network. To set this up:
- Ensure both devices have Wi-Fi enabled but are disconnected from any network.
- In the Headunit Revived app, navigate to Settings.
- Select “Wireless Helper” under Wireless Mode.
- Set the Helper Connection Strategy to “Wi-Fi Direct (P2P).”
- Hit “Save.”
- Return to the home screen and note the Wi-Fi Direct name displayed at the top. If it doesn’t appear, try relaunching the app.
- Install and open Wi-Fi Helper on your Android phone.
- Set Connection Mode to “Wi-Fi Direct.”
- Input the tablet’s Wi-Fi Direct name in the designated section.
- Press “Start Android Auto.”
- Wait for Wireless Helper to detect your Android tablet.
- Select “Continue” to access Android Auto.
If the devices do not connect automatically, you may need to manually pair them through the Wi-Fi Direct settings on each device.
Use Android Auto on your old Android tablet
After successfully connecting your phone to the tablet, Android Auto should load automatically on the screen. The interface resembles that of a standard Android Auto head unit, featuring Google Maps and Spotify readily available on the home screen. Depending on your tablet’s display size and the optimized layout, you might also see a weather widget.
You can interact with Google Maps to input destinations and navigate, or enjoy your favorite music on Spotify. If you have alternative navigation apps installed, such as Maps.me, you can easily switch between them using the dock at the bottom. To access other Android Auto-supported apps, simply click on the app drawer icon located in the bottom-left corner.
When you’re finished using Android Auto, you can exit the app by unplugging your phone for a wired connection or pressing the “Connected” button on the Wireless Helper app for a wireless connection. Alternatively, you can exit Headunit Revived via the tablet’s Notification Panel.
If you choose to mount your tablet-turned-Android Auto receiver in your vehicle, various mounting options are available. Consider a cup holder mount like the eSamcore Tablet Holder, or a dashboard-mounted option for easy access. Some mounts, such as the Apps2Car Tablet Car Mount, can even be affixed to your windshield for optimal visibility.
Found this useful? Join our free weekly newsletter for smart tech buys and products to avoid.
Subscribe Now
