AUTOSHARK RK3326

RK3326 Car Upgrade Box Instruction Manual

Model: RK3326

Brand: AUTOSHARK

1. Introduction

The RK3326 Car Upgrade Box is designed to enhance your in-car entertainment and connectivity by converting your vehicle's existing wired CarPlay/Android Auto system into a wireless one. This device allows for seamless integration of smartphone features, including navigation, music playback, messaging, and voice assistant control, directly onto your car's multimedia screen. It also supports local media playback via TF (Micro SD) cards and offers built-in access to popular streaming services like Netflix and YouTube.

2. Compatibility Requirements

Before using the RK3326 Car Upgrade Box, please ensure your vehicle meets the following criteria:

  • Your car must be a model year 2016 or newer.
  • Your car's factory multimedia radio screen must have built-in wired CarPlay functionality.
  • The multimedia radio screen must be a touch screen.

If your vehicle does not meet these requirements, the device may not function correctly. If you are unsure about your car's compatibility, please consult your vehicle's manual or contact the manufacturer.

3. Key Features

  • Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto: Converts wired CarPlay/Android Auto to wireless, enabling hands-free operation for calls, music, messages, and navigation via voice assistant.
  • Integrated Entertainment: Built-in Netflix and YouTube for video playback directly on your car's screen.
  • Local Media Playback: Supports TF (Micro SD) card for playing videos, music, and viewing pictures (supports 1GB - 256GB cards).
  • Seamless Connectivity: Utilizes WiFi (2.4G band) and Bluetooth 5.0 for stable and fast connections without requiring dashboard disassembly.
  • Retains Car Controls: Compatible with your car's existing control methods, including buttons, touchscreen, and voice control (Siri).
  • Android 8.1 System: Powered by a Rockchip RK0208 platform with Android 8.1 for high-speed, lag-free operation.

4. Technical Specifications

FeatureSpecification
ModelSS-CARPLAY-RK0208
Operating SystemAndroid 8.1
CPUQuad-core Cortex-A35 up to 1.5GHz
GPUMali-G31MP2 GPU
Memory2GB LPDDR4X + 8GB eMMC
Video Encoding1080P H.264/VP8 video encoder
Video Decoding1080P H.265/H.264/VC-1/MPEG/VP8 video decoder
Wi-Fi802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4G band support)
Bluetooth5.0
InterfacesTF-CARD slot, Type-C port
Dimensions (approx.)8cm (3.15inch) x 5cm (1.97inch)

Note: Dimensions are approximate based on product images. Please allow 1-2cm measuring deviation due to manual measurement.

5. Package Contents

The package includes the following items:

  • Carplay Box (Main Unit)
  • Instructions Manual
  • USB Cable
  • Interface Conversion Adapter (Type-C)
Package contents including the Carplay box, color box, interface conversion, USB cable, and instruction manual.
Figure 1: RK3326 Car Upgrade Box package contents.

6. Setup Instructions

  1. Connect the USB Cable: Connect one end of the provided USB cable to the RK3326 Car Upgrade Box and the other end to your car's USB port that supports wired CarPlay.
  2. Power On and Initialize: After connecting, the car's multimedia screen should display the "HI-BOX" system startup. This process may take approximately 10-15 seconds.
  3. Access HI-BOX System: Once initialized, the HI-BOX system interface will appear on your car's screen.
Video 1: Demonstrates the initial connection and startup of the RK3326 Car Upgrade Box.

7. Operating Instructions

7.1. Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto Connection

  1. Enable Bluetooth: On your smartphone (Apple or Android), enable Bluetooth.
  2. Pair with HI-BOX: On your phone, search for available Bluetooth devices and select "HI-BOX".
  3. Enter Password: If prompted, enter the Bluetooth pairing password "0000".
  4. Confirm Connection: A pop-up window may appear on your phone asking to confirm the CarPlay/Android Auto connection. Click to confirm.
  5. Wait for Connection: The connection time varies (approximately 5-20 seconds) depending on your phone and car system. Once connected, the CarPlay/Android Auto interface will appear on your car's screen.

You can now use navigation, listen to music, make calls, and utilize Siri or your car's original buttons for control.

Wireless CarPlay interface displayed on a car's multimedia screen, showing various app icons like Phone, Music, Maps, Messages, Podcasts, and Audiobooks.
Figure 2: Wireless CarPlay interface.
Wireless Android Auto interface displayed on a car's multimedia screen, showing various app icons like Google Maps, YouTube Music, Spotify, Phone, and iHeartRadio.
Figure 3: Wireless Android Auto interface.

7.2. TF (Micro SD) Card Media Playback

  1. Prepare TF Card: Ensure your Micro SD card (1GB - 256GB) contains music, video, or picture files.
  2. Insert TF Card: Insert the Micro SD card directly into the TF-CARD slot on the RK3326 Car Upgrade Box.
  3. Automatic Playback: The system will automatically detect and begin playing media from the card.

Media playback can be controlled using the car's steering wheel controls or the touchscreen interface.

A hand inserting a Micro SD card into the RK3326 Car Upgrade Box, with the car's multimedia screen showing a media player interface.
Figure 4: Inserting a Micro SD card for media playback.

7.3. Using Built-in Apps (Netflix, YouTube)

The RK3326 Car Upgrade Box comes with pre-installed Netflix and YouTube applications for video streaming. To use these apps, the device requires an internet connection.

  1. Establish Internet Connection:
    • Mobile Hotspot: Enable the personal hotspot on your smartphone and connect the RK3326 Car Upgrade Box to this Wi-Fi network.
    • External Network: Connect the device to an external Wi-Fi network (e.g., a portable router) if available.
    • 4G SIM Card (if supported model): If your specific model supports a 4G SIM card, insert it to provide direct internet access.
  2. Launch Apps: Navigate to the main interface of the HI-BOX system and select the Netflix or YouTube icon to launch the application.
Carplay Smart Box interface showing Netflix and YouTube icons for video playback.
Figure 5: Accessing Netflix and YouTube on the Carplay Box.

8. Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  • Storage: When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the device from the car's USB port and store it in a cool, dry place.
  • Software Updates: Periodically check for software updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Contact support for information on available firmware updates.

9. Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Q: What is the connection password for Bluetooth?
A: The factory password is "126". For Bluetooth pairing, the initial password is "0000".
Q: Is the device compatible with Mercedes-Benz cars?
A: Yes, it is compatible with Mercedes-Benz original cars that have a wired CarPlay function.
Q: The Carplay box is not working when my mobile hotspot is off. What should I do?
A: This product requires a network connection to function. You can use your mobile phone's hotspot, an external network (like a portable router), or, if your model supports it, a 4G SIM card.
Q: What type of memory card should I use?
A: Use a Micro SD Card (TF Card).
Q: Does the device support split screen functionality?
A: No, split screen functionality is not supported.
Q: How does screen casting work?
A: To use screen casting, enable your mobile phone's hotspot. Connect the car (via the Carplay Box) to this hotspot network. Then, open the "CarbitLink" application on the car's screen and activate the screen cast feature on your phone.

10. User Tips

  • For the best experience, ensure your smartphone's operating system is up-to-date.
  • If experiencing connection issues, try restarting both your phone's Bluetooth/Wi-Fi and the Carplay Box by unplugging and re-plugging it.
  • When using TF cards for media, organize your files into folders for easier navigation.

11. Warranty and Support

The product comes with a one-year factory warranty (accessories not included). For any issues or inquiries regarding the device, including navigation updates or new firmware, please contact the seller or manufacturer's support channel.

It is recommended to have the device installed by a professional at a car service store to prevent potential damage due to incorrect installation. Most issues can be resolved through proper usage or installation guidance.

© 2023 AUTOSHARK. All rights reserved.

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.