CarlinKit Tbox-Ultra Android 15 TV Box User Manual

1. Introduction

The CarlinKit Tbox-Ultra is an advanced in-car multimedia system that upgrades your vehicle's infotainment with a full Android 15 operating system. It enables wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, provides access to a wide range of applications, and offers enhanced navigation and entertainment features. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Tbox-Ultra.

2. Package Contents

Before you begin, please ensure all items are present in your package:

• Tbox-Ultra Product: 1 unit
• Packing Box: 1 unit
• Data Cable: 2 units (USB-A to USB-C, USB-C to USB-C, L=300mm)
• Dual USB Power Cord: 1 unit
• Product Manual: 1 unit
• Ejection Pin: 1 unit

Image: CarlinKit Tbox-Ultra package contents and product overview.

3. Setup and Installation

3.1 Compatibility Requirements

• Your car must have factory-wired CarPlay or wired Android Auto. The Tbox-Ultra will not work if your car does not have these features.
• The device does not support BMW car models.
• For wireless CarPlay: Compatible with iPhone 6 and above, running iOS 10.0 and above.
• For wireless Android Auto: Compatible with Android phones running Android 11.0 and above. Please confirm your phone supports wireless Android Auto.

3.2 Connecting the Device

The Tbox-Ultra is designed for plug-and-play operation. It can be connected to your vehicle's USB-A or USB-C data port.

Image: CarlinKit Tbox-Ultra showing USB-A and USB-C ports for connection.

For certain vehicles, if the primary data port does not provide sufficient power, you may need to use the auxiliary dual USB power cable (Cable B) along with the data cable (Cable A) and a power supply (e.g., car charger) as shown in the diagram below:

Image: Connection instructions for CarlinKit Tbox-Ultra using a dual-head USB power cable for auxiliary power.

3.3 Network Connection

The Tbox-Ultra supports two ways to connect to the internet:

1. **Via Hotspot:** Turn on your mobile phone's hotspot and connect the Tbox-Ultra to it via Wi-Fi.
2. **Via 4G SIM Card:** Insert a 4G SIM card into the designated slot on the device. The Tbox-Ultra has a built-in 4G all-network module.

Image: Two ways to connect the Tbox-Ultra to the network.

3.4 Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto Connection

Follow these steps to activate wireless CarPlay or Android Auto:

1. Connect the Tbox-Ultra to your car's USB port.
2. On your car's screen, click on the "Autokit" application.
3. Turn on Wi-Fi on your mobile phone.
4. Use your phone to connect to the Bluetooth name displayed by the Autokit application (usually "Autokit Tbox Ultra").
5. Once connected, the wireless CarPlay/Android Auto system will be successfully activated.

Image: Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto connection instructions.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 User Interface and Navigation

The Tbox-Ultra runs on a brand-new Android 15 system with an intuitive user interface. It automatically adapts to the central control screen size of mainstream vehicles, allowing for seamless switching between applications.

Image: Tbox-Ultra automatically adapting to different car screen sizes.

Image: Multifunctional box with multiple scenes and split-screen capabilities.

4.2 App Store and Applications

The device comes with a built-in Google Play Store, allowing you to download and install a wide variety of global applications and games. This includes audiovisual entertainment, communication tools, and navigation apps.

Image: Built-in Google Play Store for massive global applications.

4.3 Media Playback and Entertainment

Enjoy seamless playback of high-definition videos and clear navigation. The Tbox-Ultra supports video playback resolutions up to 4K 60fps (adaptive to car screen resolution). You can also play media (videos, music, photos) from an inserted Micro SD card (up to 512GB).

Image: Tbox-Ultra supporting video playback up to 4K 60fps.

4.4 Global Positioning (GPS)

The device features built-in GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou for stable signal reception, high ground coverage, and accurate navigation, even in complex road conditions.

Image: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou for accurate navigation.

4.5 Switching CarPlay/Android Auto Modes

The Tbox-Ultra supports dual-channel operation, allowing you to switch between CarPlay and Android Auto modes at will. An LED indicator on the bottom of the device will show a green light for CarPlay mode (default) and a blue light for Android Auto mode.

Image: Dual channel work for CarPlay and Android Auto with LED indicators.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA) Updates

Regular system upgrades are crucial for maintaining performance and resolving underlying issues. The Tbox-Ultra supports FOTA updates to keep your system updated.

1. Click on the "FOTA App" on the device interface.
2. Click "CHECK VERSION" to enter the upgrade interface.
3. Click "OK" to upgrade the version.

Important System Upgrade Guidelines:

• **Stable Network Connection:** Ensure a stable network connection before starting the upgrade. A poor connection may lead to upgrade failure or security issues.
• **Stable Power Supply:** Ensure the device is connected to a stable power supply. Unstable power during an upgrade can cause system errors or boot failure.
• **Do Not Interrupt:** Do not power off, unplug, or restart the device during the upgrade process. Do not perform any actions or operations on the device during the upgrade. Interrupting the upgrade may result in incomplete installation/system errors or the device failing to boot properly.
• **After Upgrade:** The device may automatically restart. It is normal for the system to take longer than usual during the first boot after an upgrade.
• **Persistent Issues:** If any issues persist after the upgrade, contact technical support or refer to the recovery instructions.

Image: FOTA Upgrade and Online Feedback instructions.

5.2 General Care

The Tbox-Ultra is made of ABS material. To ensure its longevity, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight for prolonged periods, or harsh chemicals. Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth.

6. Troubleshooting

• **Device Not Powering On:**
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to your car's data port.
  • If necessary, use the auxiliary dual USB power cable (Cable B) and a separate power supply to ensure adequate power.
  • Verify your car's USB port is functional.
• **No CarPlay/Android Auto Connection:**
  • Confirm your car has factory-wired CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Ensure your phone's Wi-Fi is on and Bluetooth is paired with "Autokit Tbox Ultra".
  • Check if the "Autokit" app is running on your car's screen.
  • Verify your phone's compatibility (iPhone 6+/iOS 10+ for CarPlay, Android 11+ for Android Auto).
• **Slow Performance or App Crashes:**
  • Check your internet connection stability.
  • Ensure the device firmware is up to date (refer to Section 5.1 FOTA Updates).
  • Clear cache for problematic applications.
  • Restart the device.
• **Navigation Inaccuracy:**
  • Ensure the device has a clear view of the sky for optimal GPS signal reception.
  • Update navigation apps to their latest versions.
• **Upgrade Failure:**
  • Ensure a stable network connection and power supply during the entire upgrade process.
  • Do not interrupt the device during an upgrade.
  • If issues persist, contact technical support.

7. Specifications

8. User Tips

• **Optimize Video Playback:** While the device supports up to 4K 60fps, the actual resolution will adapt to your car's screen. For the best experience, ensure your car's display supports higher resolutions.
• **Network Flexibility:** Utilize both hotspot and SIM card options for internet connectivity based on convenience and signal availability.
• **Regular Updates:** Perform FOTA updates regularly to benefit from performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features. Always ensure stable power and network during updates.
• **Check Phone Compatibility:** Before attempting wireless Android Auto, confirm your Android phone explicitly supports this feature in its settings.
• **LED Indicators:** Pay attention to the LED light on the device to quickly identify whether it's operating in CarPlay (green) or Android Auto (blue) mode.

9. Warranty and Support

CarlinKit products come with professional certification and quality assurance. For technical support, warranty claims, or any inquiries, please use the following contact information:

• **Official Website:** https://www.carlinkit.com
• **Email:** aesupport@carlinkit.com
• **WhatsApp:** +86 181 2973 7153

Image: CarlinKit Official Store contact and support information.

The product has received various authoritative certifications, including CE, Bluetooth Membership, FCC, SRRC, TELEC, ROHS, BSMI, and Certified HDMI Adapter, ensuring reliability and compliance with international standards.

Image: Authoritative certifications for CarlinKit Tbox-Ultra.