OTTOCAST Play2Video Express

OTTOCAST Play2Video Express User Manual

Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto AI Box Adapter

1. Introduction

The OTTOCAST Play2Video Express is an advanced AI Box adapter designed to enhance your in-car entertainment and connectivity. It seamlessly converts your car's factory wired CarPlay into a wireless experience, supporting both Wireless CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto. Additionally, it features a built-in streaming system with popular apps and USB media playback capabilities.

Key Features:

  • Triple Choice Connectivity: Wireless CarPlay, Wireless Android Auto, and Streaming System.
  • Built-in Apps: Spotify, Netflix, YouTube, IPTV, Prime Video.
  • USB Flash Drive Playback for local music and videos (up to 128GB).
  • Supports original vehicle controls: OEM knob, steering wheel buttons, touch screen, voice assistant (Siri/Google).
  • OTA (Over-The-Air) software upgrades.
OTTOCAST Play2Video Express device connected to a car display, showing Netflix, Spotify, YouTube, Prime Video, and IPTV icons.
Figure 1: OTTOCAST Play2Video Express connected to a car display, showcasing streaming apps.

2. Compatibility

This adapter is designed for specific vehicle and phone configurations. Please review the compatibility requirements carefully before use.

2.1 Car Compatibility

Important: The Play2Video Express adapter is ONLY compatible with cars that have factory wired CarPlay.

It is suitable for various car brands with factory wired CarPlay, including but not limited to:

  • Audi
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Chevrolet
  • Ford
  • Porsche
  • Volvo
  • Volkswagen
  • Kia
  • Lexus
  • Hyundai
  • Honda
  • Toyota
  • Mazda
  • Land Rover
  • Jeep
  • Subaru

Not compatible with BMW or TSL vehicles.

2.2 Phone Compatibility

  • iPhone: iPhone 6 and above (running iOS 10 or above).
  • Android Phones: Devices running Android 11 or above, including some Samsung and Google phones.

Not compatible with HUAWEI or Xiaomi Redmi phones.

Image showing various compatible iPhones and Android phones, and a list of car brands compatible with factory wired CarPlay.
Figure 2: Phone and Car Compatibility overview.

3. Package Contents

Upon opening your OTTOCAST Play2Video Express package, you should find the following items:

  1. Play2Video Express Unit (1 pcs)
  2. USB A to C Adapter (1 pcs)
  3. Bypass Power Cable (Y-Cable) (1 pcs)
  4. User Manual (1 pcs)
Image showing the Play2Video Express device, its packaging, and included accessories (USB A to C adapter, Bypass Power Cable, User Manual).
Figure 3: Play2Video Express packaging and included accessories.

An optional remote control may be available for purchase separately.

Image showing the Play2Video Express device and an optional remote control.
Figure 4: Play2Video Express with optional remote control.

4. Setup Instructions

Follow these simple steps to set up your Play2Video Express adapter and enjoy wireless connectivity.

  1. Connect the Adapter: Plug the Play2Video Express unit into your car's USB port. Ensure your car's factory wired CarPlay is turned on.

  2. Pair with Your Phone: On your smartphone, turn on both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Search for and pair with the device named "Play2Video-Express-xxxx" (where 'xxxx' is a unique identifier).

  3. Approve Requests: After successful Bluetooth pairing, approve any CarPlay or Android Auto requests that appear on your phone or car's display.

Easy installation steps: Connect to car navigation, Connect to smartphone via WiFi/Bluetooth, Connection successful.
Figure 5: Three-step simple pairing for quick start.

4.1 Special Considerations During Setup

  • Non-Touch Screens: If your car has a non-touch screen display, it is recommended to use the option that includes an air mouse for easier navigation.
  • Japanese Cars: Cars manufactured in Japan may have relatively small current output, potentially leading to insufficient power supply. If you experience power issues, please contact customer support to request a free bypass power cable.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto

Once successfully paired, your car's display will automatically switch to the Wireless CarPlay or Wireless Android Auto interface, allowing you to access your phone's features directly on the car screen.

Android 12 System Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto, showing phone screens and the device.
Figure 6: Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto interface on car display.

5.2 Connecting to Wi-Fi Network

To use certain built-in apps like Netflix, YouTube, or other online video services, you need to connect the Play2Video Express to a Wi-Fi network.

  1. Access Settings: On your car's display, navigate to the Play2Video Express interface and click on the "Settings" icon.

  2. Select Network: Within the Settings menu, click on "Network & Internet".

  3. Connect to Wi-Fi: Find your desired Wi-Fi network name from the list and connect to it. You may need to enter the password if it's a secured network.

How to Connect to WiFi Network steps (Click Settings, Network & Internet, Find WiFi Name and connect).
Figure 7: Steps to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

5.3 Using Built-in Apps

The Play2Video Express comes pre-loaded with several powerful applications for your entertainment:

  • Spotify (Music streaming)
  • Netflix (Video streaming)
  • YouTube (Video streaming)
  • IPTV (Internet Protocol Television)
  • Prime Video (Video streaming)

Note: You cannot download any other apps to the device.

Built-in Five Powerful Apps: Spotify, IPTV, YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video.
Figure 8: Built-in applications for entertainment.

5.4 USB Flash Drive Playback

The device features a multifunctional USB-A port that supports USB flash drives up to 128GB. You can play local music and videos directly from your USB drive.

  1. Insert your USB flash drive into the USB-A port on the Play2Video Express.
  2. Navigate to the media player application on your car's display.
  3. Select your desired music or video files for playback.
Multifunctional USB-A Port, showing video/music playback from U disk and USB flash drive upgrade.
Figure 9: USB-A port for media playback and upgrades.

5.5 Control Methods

The Play2Video Express is designed to integrate seamlessly with your car's existing control systems, ensuring a safe and intuitive user experience.

  • Voice Assistant Control: Use Siri (for CarPlay) or Google Assistant (for Android Auto) for hands-free commands.
  • Steering Wheel Buttons: Control media playback, volume, and calls using your car's steering wheel controls.
  • Touch Screen: Directly interact with the interface via your car's touch screen display.
  • OEM Knob Control: Utilize your car's original equipment manufacturer (OEM) knob for navigation and selection.
Support Original Vehicle Operation, showing OEM knob control, Steering wheel control, Touch control, Call Siri & Call Google.
Figure 10: Various control methods supported by the device.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Software Updates (OTA Upgrade)

The Play2Video Express supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates to ensure you always have the latest features and performance improvements. When an update is available, you will be prompted on the device interface. Ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection during the update process.

6.2 USB Flash Drive Upgrade

In some cases, firmware updates can also be performed via a USB flash drive. Instructions for this method will be provided with specific update packages if necessary.

6.3 General Care

  • Keep the device dry and away from extreme temperatures.
  • Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
  • Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Play2Video Express, please refer to the following common solutions:

  • Device Not Connecting:
    • Ensure your car has factory wired CarPlay and it is active.
    • Verify that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone.
    • Check that the device is properly plugged into the car's USB port.
    • Restart both your phone and the car's infotainment system.
  • No Power/Intermittent Power:
    • Ensure the USB connection is secure.
    • If you own a Japanese car and experience power issues, contact support for a bypass power cable.
  • Cannot Download Apps:
    • The Play2Video Express runs on a closed Android 12 system and does not support downloading additional apps beyond the pre-installed ones. This is normal operation.
  • No Sound/Video Playback:
    • Check your car's audio input settings.
    • Ensure the media files on your USB drive are in a supported format.
    • Verify Wi-Fi connection for streaming apps.
  • Phone Compatibility Issues:
    • Confirm your phone meets the minimum OS requirements (iOS 10+ for iPhone, Android 11+ for Android).
    • Note that Huawei and Xiaomi Redmi phones are not supported.

8. Specifications

Feature Specification
Model Play2Video Express
CPU Allwinner H618 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53, up to 1.5GHz
Memory (RAM + ROM) 2GB DDR4 + 16GB eMMC
Operating System Closed Android 12 (cannot download other apps)
Wi-Fi Dual-band 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz+5GHz
Bluetooth BT 5.4
USB Port USB-A (supports flash drives up to 128 GB)
Supported Video Modes YouTube, Netflix, IPTV, Prime Video
Dimensions (L x W x H) 16 cm x 15 cm x 5 cm
Weight 0.25 kg
Comparison Chart for Play2Video Series (1.0, 2.0 Pro, 3.0 Express) with detailed specifications.
Figure 11: Detailed comparison chart of Play2Video series, highlighting Express specifications.

9. User Tips

  • Verify Compatibility: Always double-check that your car has factory wired CarPlay and that your phone's operating system meets the minimum requirements before purchasing or attempting to use the device.
  • Power Supply for Japanese Cars: If you own a car made in Japan and experience power-related issues, contact OTTOCAST Official Store support to inquire about a bypass power cable.
  • Non-Touch Screen Navigation: For vehicles with non-touch screens, consider using the Play2Video Express model that includes an air mouse for a more convenient user experience.
  • Firmware Updates: Regularly check for OTA updates to ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features.

10. Warranty & Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the physical user manual included in your product package or visit the OTTOCAST Official Store website.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or inquiries regarding your product, please contact the OTTOCAST Official Store directly. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy for faster service.

Software updates are provided via OTA (Over-The-Air) to improve functionality and address potential issues. Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet connection to receive these updates.

Related Documents - Play2Video Express

Preview OTTOCAST Play2Video Pro User Manual: All-in-One Multimedia Adapter
User manual for the OTTOCAST Play2Video Pro All-in-One Multimedia Adapter, detailing its features, setup, interfaces, LED indicators, connection diagrams, user interface, and quick settings for wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.
Preview User Manual: All-in-One Multimedia Adapter
This user manual provides instructions for the All-in-One Multimedia Adapter, detailing its specifications, features, connection methods, user interface, settings, and firmware updates. It enables online and offline video playback on car monitors with Apple CarPlay.
Preview User Manual: All-in-One Multimedia Adapter
User manual for the All-in-One Multimedia Adapter, detailing its contents, interfaces, LED indicator, connection diagram, user interface, and quick settings for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth pairing.
Preview User Manual: All-in-One Multimedia Adapter
User manual for the All-in-One Multimedia Adapter, detailing specifications, contents, interfaces, connection diagrams, user interface, quick settings, and firmware updates. This adapter allows for online and offline video playback, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto on stock car monitors.
Preview Ottocast Play2Video Ultra User Manual: Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto Guide
Comprehensive user manual for the Ottocast Play2Video Ultra, detailing installation, setup, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, app management, audio streaming, and troubleshooting.
Preview OTTOCAST Play2Video Pro User Manual: Setup, Features, and Troubleshooting
A comprehensive guide to the OTTOCAST Play2Video Pro, a wireless CarPlay and Android Auto adapter. Learn how to connect your phone, upgrade firmware, troubleshoot common issues, and understand indicator status.