cables

AppWizard
September 5, 2026
Audio ducking is a feature in Android Auto that temporarily lowers the volume of the primary app to allow important notifications to be heard clearly. This feature has been part of Android since version 8.0 and is triggered by notifications and navigation prompts. Audio ducking can vary in duration and intensity between different applications. Users can disable notifications for specific apps to prevent audio ducking, but this may result in missing alerts. Additionally, Android 14 introduced hearing safety features that monitor audio levels and lower the volume if prolonged exposure to loud sounds is detected. Users can activate do not disturb mode to silence message notifications, but this won't affect navigation alerts. Audio behavior can also be influenced by settings within the car's audio system. Restarting the device, re-pairing it with the car, or switching cables can resolve connectivity issues.
AppWizard
August 29, 2026
Android Auto allows users to integrate their smartphones with their vehicle's dashboard, enabling functionalities like messaging, calling, music playback, and navigation. Most modern Android smartphones released in the last decade are compatible with Android Auto if they run Android 9 or later. Android 10 comes with the app pre-installed, while users of Android 9 can download it from the Google Play Store. Over 500 vehicle models support Android Auto, but compatibility can vary based on the vehicle's age and specifications. Wireless functionality is available for devices running Android 11 or later. Compatibility issues may arise with older phones, devices without Google services, or those using custom ROMs. Connection quality can also affect performance, with recommendations for using a data-transfer-capable cable shorter than six feet. Users may need to reset connections or disable VPNs to resolve issues. For those with compatibility problems, updating software or using a wireless adapter may be necessary.
AppWizard
August 4, 2026
Repurposing an old Android tablet can enhance your driving experience by turning it into a DIY Android Auto head unit using the app Headunit Revived. This open-source application acts as an Android Auto receiver, allowing navigation with Google Maps and access to apps like Spotify, Facebook Messenger, and Google Calendar. Headunit Revived is compatible with Android devices updated to at least Android 4.1 and can be downloaded for a fee from the Play Store or for free via an APK from GitHub. It can also be used on older Amazon Fire tablets. To set up Headunit Revived on your tablet, grant necessary permissions, agree to terms, and follow the Quick Setup Wizard to select screen size and orientation. The app will optimize the Android Auto layout based on your tablet's specifications. You can modify settings for UI scaling, dark mode, and screen resolution. To connect your phone to the tablet, you can use a USB cable or a wireless connection. For a wired connection, connect the phone via USB, select the appropriate USB settings, and launch Headunit Revived. For a wireless connection, enable Wi-Fi Direct on both devices, set the connection strategy in the app, and use the Wi-Fi Helper app on your phone to connect. Once connected, Android Auto will load on the tablet, allowing access to navigation and music apps. You can switch between navigation apps and exit Android Auto by unplugging the phone or using the Wireless Helper app. Various mounting options are available for securing the tablet in your vehicle.
AppWizard
July 21, 2026
A Galaxy phone running Android Auto showcases the evolution of mobile technology in vehicles. Android Auto, launched in 2014, has changed over time, transitioning from phone screens and vehicle dashboards to being primarily directed to Android Auto after the introduction of Google Assistant Driving Mode and Gemini. The Headunit Reloaded Emulator app allows users to restore Android Auto functionality on their phones for a fee of .99, enabling projection of the Android Auto interface onto another Android device. The app has mixed reviews regarding performance and compatibility. Users should be cautious when using their phones while driving, as the emulator is intended for use on devices other than the vehicle's built-in unit. To set up the Headunit Reloaded Emulator, users need to download it from the Play Store and grant permissions for Bluetooth and location access. The app offers three modes: Phone Mode, Wi-Fi, and USB. In Phone Mode, users can enable Android Auto on their phone's screen, which can be optimized by rotating the device to landscape orientation. Users can navigate the interface and adjust settings related to pixel density, screen margins, key press configurations, and audio routing. To connect to another device, install the Headunit Reloaded Emulator on that device, which will act as the head unit. Users can connect their primary phone via USB or Wi-Fi. The USB method requires a cable and selecting the appropriate connection mode on both devices. The Wi-Fi method involves ensuring both devices are on the same network and using the Wi-Fi Launcher app on the primary phone to establish a connection.
AppWizard
June 17, 2026
Issues with Android Auto related to device connections have been prevalent, particularly for Samsung Galaxy S26 series and Google Pixel devices, due to software glitches. Google released Play Services version v26.15 in April to address these problems, but it did not fully resolve them. The latest update, Google Play Services v26.22, began rolling out on June 8 and includes bug fixes for device connection issues. The changelog notes '[Auto] Bug fixes for Device Connections related services.' Users can check for this version in the Settings app under Google > All services > System Services. Version 26.23, which is also rolling out, includes performance enhancements and bug fixes for system management and diagnostics. Additionally, Android Auto has undergone a significant update in 2026, introducing support for Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader and four new features, including expanded widget support.
AppWizard
May 20, 2026
Herman Miller has launched the Coyl gaming desk, marking its entry into the gaming desk market. The desk features a distinctive coiled red power cable that powers its electronic sit-stand adjustable-height legs and an integrated multi-socket extension cord. It includes a cable tray with a flip-down fabric cover for easy access, a pegboard/accessory mount section for various holders, and a dedicated headset hook. The height control system uses a large knurled knob instead of conventional buttons. The desk is available in multiple finishes and comes with a 12-year warranty. The starting price is ,475, and it is currently available for purchase in North America.
Winsage
May 20, 2026
Windows has a bug that affects HDR calibration for multi-monitor setups, causing incorrect peak brightness data to be applied across different displays. This results in distorted colors and highlights, particularly impacting gaming experiences where games draw settings from Windows. The issue is suspected to be triggered by the device entering standby mode, waking from sleep, or physically swapping display cables. Microsoft has not officially recognized or fixed this problem, leaving users to manually check their display profiles or restart their systems as a workaround.
TrendTechie
May 3, 2026
Fractal Design has launched the Torrent series of cases, including the Torrent Compact, designed for maximum efficiency and airflow. The Torrent Compact supports various motherboard sizes (E-ATX, ATX, mATX, Mini-ITX) and features a top-mounted power supply, seven expansion slots, and multiple fan and radiator mounting options. It includes two 180 mm Dynamic X2 fans, capable of moving 153 CFM of air, and has a net weight of 7.7 kg with dimensions of 450 x 222 x 467 mm. The case offers three 2.5" drive bays and one 3.5" drive bay, along with front panel ports including USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C and USB 3.0. The design emphasizes unobstructed airflow and includes a removable dust filter. The case is equipped with a PWM-controlled hub for up to nine fans and features a dedicated mounting hole for custom cooling loops. The assembly process is standard, though the top-mounted power supply and limited cable management space may pose challenges. The case's performance was tested with high-end components, demonstrating effective cooling capabilities, although the fans can produce noticeable noise at maximum speeds.
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