Android aftermarket headunit question

[p359]

       
Hi all.  I've seen a few threads where people fit the usual 9" generic headunit from Aliexpress into their van.  The original in van seems to be have the non touchscreen factory type with the clock and lcd  on top of the dash so fair enough makes sense.

Has anyone fitted same aftermarket to a van with the touchscreen as factory?  Mine has menu/vol up and vol down buttons above the screen.  While the screen is ok, no android auto.  I've tried a dongle to convert AA to carplay but it was buggy, no way to use for daily driver.

My hu has mirror link but that's kaput for years.  Just curious as searches haven't thrown anything up.  Most people buy an old iphone and go that route. 

Just curious for any thoughts, cheers!

[ae3]

i have just been looking into this myself. i hate the standard unit with a passion, worst HU i have ever used.

there is a unit that seems to retain computer functions, mpg etc.. but only in km/h. and the top buttons (volume) are done away with relying on the stalk controls.

really tempted to try an el cheapo unit myself

[ae3]

i took the plunge and bought a cheap android unit.. didn't spend too much, just an experimental purchase. as it turns out, it's replacing the original. no DAB (it was a cheap unit) but everything works perfectly. even the reverse sensors which i wasn't expecting! will be adding a reverse camera because, why not? almost plug and play.

the only thing that's missing is the trip mileage / distance to empty which isn't a big deal, still have a fuel gauge