1. Introduction
The EKIY EC05 Mini Car Play Box is a compact and intelligent adapter designed to convert your car's existing wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto system into a wireless one. This device allows for seamless integration of your smartphone's functions with your car's infotainment display, offering convenience and an enhanced driving experience.
Key features include Bluetooth 5.0 and 5GHz WiFi connectivity for stable and fast transmission, automatic connection upon entering the vehicle, and support for Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates to ensure optimal performance.
2. Product Features
- Wired to Wireless Conversion: Transforms wired CarPlay and Android Auto into wireless functionality.
- Plug and Play: Easy installation without complex setup.
- Automatic Connection: Connects automatically to your smartphone after initial pairing.
- Dual Compatibility: Supports both Apple CarPlay (for iOS 8 or above) and Android Auto.
- High-Speed Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 and 5GHz WiFi for stable and fast data transmission.
- Retains Original Car Functions: Supports voice assistant, steering wheel controls, OEM knob/joystick controls, and touchscreen controls.
- OTA Updates: Allows for online software updates to improve performance and add new features.
- Compact Design: Mini size for easy portability and discreet placement.
- Wide App Support: Compatible with various navigation, music, and communication apps.
3. Compatibility
The EKIY EC05 is designed for cars that already have a factory-installed wired CarPlay or Android Auto system accessible via a USB cable. It is compatible with approximately 98% of cars equipped with these systems.
Important Compatibility Notes:
- Your car MUST have wired CarPlay or Android Auto functionality that uses a USB cable.
- The device is NOT compatible with BMW, Tesla, or Skoda cars.
- For iPhone users, iOS 8 or above is required.
4. Setup Instructions
4.1. Package Contents
Before you begin, ensure all items are present in the package:
- EKIY EC05 Mini Car Play Box
- USB to Type-C Cable
- Type-C to Type-C Cable
4.2. Initial Connection
- Connect the EKIY EC05 box to your car's original USB or Type-C data interface using one of the provided cables. The box will power on and read car data.
- Wait for the box to establish a connection with your car.
4.3. Wireless CarPlay Setup (iOS Phone User)
- Ensure your iPhone's Wi-Fi is turned ON.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your iPhone.
- Search for a Bluetooth device named "smartBox-****".
- Pair with the device and allow synchronization.
- Finally, click "Use CarPlay" on your iPhone.
- After a few seconds, the CarPlay interface will appear on your car's screen.
4.4. Wireless Android Auto Setup (Android Phone User)
- Ensure your Android phone's Wi-Fi is turned ON.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your Android phone.
- Search for a Bluetooth device named "smartBox-****".
- Pair with the device. The device name will change to "Your Car MyLink" after successful linking.
- After a few seconds, the Android Auto interface will appear on your car's screen.
4.5. Converting Wired CarPlay/Android Auto to Wireless
If your car supports both wired CarPlay and wired Android Auto, both can be converted to wireless connectivity. You may need to open the corresponding options through your car's original settings (some car systems may not require this step). For iPhone, open CarPlay for Bluetooth connection. For Android phone, open Android Auto for Bluetooth connection.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Automatic Connection
Once the initial setup is complete, the EKIY EC05 will automatically connect to your paired smartphone every time you start your car, providing a seamless experience.
5.2. Using CarPlay and Android Auto
After connecting, your car's display will show the CarPlay or Android Auto interface. You can interact with your phone's functions directly from the car's screen.
- Supported Applications: Access navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, iGO, Sygic, music streaming services (e.g., Spotify), audiobooks, phone calls, messages, and more.
- Retained Car Controls: Continue to use your car's original controls, including voice assistant (Siri/Google Assistant), steering wheel buttons, OEM knobs/joysticks, and the touchscreen.
6. Maintenance
6.1. OTA Updates
The EKIY EC05 supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates. This allows you to easily update the device's software to receive the latest content, bug fixes, and optimized user experience without needing to connect to a computer.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1. Connection Failure
If the connection between the EC05 and your phone fails:
- On your phone, navigate to Settings > General > CarPlay (for iPhone) or Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences > Android Auto (for Android).
- Find "My Car" or "Your Car MyLink" and select "Ignore Historical Devices" or "Forget This Car".
- Restart your smartphone.
- Attempt to reconnect the device following the initial setup instructions.
7.2. General Issues
If you encounter other issues, ensure:
- Your car's USB/Type-C port is functioning correctly.
- The cables are securely connected.
- Your phone's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled.
- Your phone's operating system is up to date.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | EC05 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 60mm x 60mm x 13mm |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, 5GHz WiFi |
| Interface | USB & Type-C |
| Power Input | 5V === 1A |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +70°C |
| Supported OS | iOS 8 or above (for CarPlay), Android (for Android Auto) |
| Origin | Mainland China |
9. User Tips
- Pre-purchase Check: Always verify that your car supports wired CarPlay or Android Auto via a USB cable before purchasing the EC05.
- Plug and Play: The device is designed for ease of use; simply plug it in and follow the pairing steps.
- Automatic Reconnection: After the initial setup, the device should automatically connect to your phone when you enter the car.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for OTA updates to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.
10. FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference, and
- This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement
The equipment complies with FCC Radiation exposure limits set forth for uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.
11. Support
For further assistance or if you encounter any issues not covered in this manual, please refer to the official user manual PDF available at: EKIY EC05 User Manual (PDF). You may also contact the seller directly for support.