CarlinKit R2 Tbox Wireless CarPlay Android Auto TV Box User Manual

1. Product Overview

The CarlinKit R2 Tbox is an advanced 3-in-1 Android 13 system upgrade box designed to enhance your in-car entertainment and connectivity. It converts your car's existing wired CarPlay or wired Android Auto system into a wireless experience, while also providing a full Android 13 operating system directly on your car's display. This allows for the installation of various applications, navigation, video playback, and more.

Key Features:

• Built-in 4G full Netcom module for independent networking, or use mobile phone hotspot WiFi.
• Supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.
• Access to a wide range of applications from the application store.
• Integrated GPS+Glonass+Beidou satellite positioning for accurate navigation.
• Powered by a Qualcomm SM6225 Octa-core CPU for stable and fast performance.

2. Compatibility and Requirements

The CarlinKit R2 Tbox is compatible with cars that have factory-installed wired Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto. It does not support vehicles without these existing wired functionalities.

Important Reminders:

• If your car does not have wired CarPlay/Android Auto, this product will not work.
• BMW and Changan car models are generally not supported. (Changan models may require an additional power supply line).

3. Setup Instructions

Follow these simple steps to connect and set up your CarlinKit R2 Tbox:

1. Plug and Play Connection: Connect the CarlinKit R2 Tbox to your car's USB port (typically the one used for wired CarPlay/Android Auto). The device will power on and display an Android logo.
2. Access the Interface: On your car's screen, click the “AutoKit” icon to enter the connection interface of the Tbox.
3. Enable Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto:
   
   • Ensure Bluetooth and WiFi are turned on on your mobile phone (Apple or Android).
   • Search for the Bluetooth name displayed on your car's screen (from the Tbox interface) in your phone's Bluetooth settings.
   • Select the Tbox Bluetooth device and click 'Pair'.
   • Once paired, the wireless CarPlay or wireless Android Auto function will be activated automatically after a few seconds.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Dual-Channel Switching

The Tbox R2 supports converting wired CarPlay to wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, and also converting a car screen with only wired Android Auto functionality to wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. This is useful if your car only supports one of the wired protocols.

Switching Method: Insert a clip (e.g., a SIM ejector tool) into the small hole on the device and hold the button for approximately 2-3 seconds. This will switch between CarPlay mode (green indicator light) and Android Auto mode (blue indicator light). CarPlay is the default mode.

4.2 Network Connectivity

The Tbox R2 features a built-in 4G full Netcom module, allowing it to connect to mobile networks independently. It also supports connecting via your mobile phone's hotspot WiFi.

4.3 App Installation and Usage

With the Android 13 system, you can download and use a wide variety of applications directly on your car's screen. Popular apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Waze are supported for entertainment and navigation.

4.4 Navigation and GPS

The Tbox R2 includes built-in GPS, Glonass, and Beidou satellite positioning for accurate and reliable navigation. You can use pre-installed navigation apps or download your preferred ones from the app store.

4.5 Split Screen Functionality

The device supports split-screen mode, allowing you to run two applications simultaneously on your car's display. It also adapts to different car screen resolutions for optimal viewing.

4.6 Voice Assistant

The CarlinKit R2 Tbox supports intelligent voice assistant features, allowing for hands-free control and interaction with the system.

4.7 Product Demonstration Video

5. Maintenance

5.1 FOTA Online Upgrade

The CarlinKit R2 Tbox supports Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA) updates, ensuring your device always has the latest features and performance improvements. Regular updates help maintain optimal driving experience.

To perform an FOTA upgrade:

1. Navigate to 'Settings' on the Tbox interface.
2. Look for 'System Update' or a similar option.
3. Click 'Check Version' and follow the on-screen prompts to download and install any available updates.

5.2 Online Feedback

If you encounter any issues or have suggestions, you can provide online feedback directly through the device.

To submit feedback:

1. Go to 'Settings' on the Tbox interface.
2. Find the 'Feedback' option.
3. Fill in the required information, such as car brand/model/year, product model, and current firmware version.
4. Upload any relevant logs or take a picture of the Case ID and send it to customer service for assistance.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 Connectivity Issues

• Device not powering on: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the Tbox and the car's USB port. Try a different USB port if available.
• No signal/display on car screen: Verify your car has factory wired CarPlay or Android Auto. Ensure the Tbox is correctly plugged in and your car's system is set to the CarPlay/Android Auto input.
• Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto not connecting: Double-check that Bluetooth and WiFi are enabled on your phone. Forget the device from your phone's Bluetooth settings and re-pair. Ensure the Tbox is in the correct operating mode (CarPlay or Android Auto) using the dual-channel switch.

6.2 App Performance Issues

• Apps crashing or freezing: Ensure the Tbox has a stable internet connection (either via 4G module or hotspot). Try clearing the app's cache or reinstalling the app.
• Slow performance: Close unused background applications. Ensure the device firmware is up to date via FOTA upgrade.

6.3 Audio/Video Problems

• No sound: Check the volume levels on both the Tbox and your car's audio system. Ensure the correct audio source is selected on your car's head unit.
• Video playback issues: Verify a strong internet connection for streaming services. Ensure video files are in a supported format if playing local media.

7. User Tips

• Optimize for long trips: Download offline maps and your favorite media content to the Tbox's internal storage or a Micro SD card to save on data usage and ensure entertainment even without network coverage.
• Regularly check for updates: Keep your Tbox firmware updated to benefit from the latest features, bug fixes, and performance enhancements.
• Manage apps: Periodically review installed apps and uninstall those you no longer use to free up memory and improve system responsiveness.
• Secure your network: If using the 4G module, ensure you have a data plan suitable for your usage. If using a mobile hotspot, secure it with a strong password.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

CarlinKit is committed to providing quality products and comprehensive after-sales service. The product comes with a one-year guarantee.

For technical support, inquiries, or feedback, please contact CarlinKit customer service:

• Email: aesupport@carlinkit.com
• WhatsApp: +86 181 2973 7153