CarlinKit Ultra1 Android 15.0 AI Box User Manual

1. Introduction

The CarlinKit Ultra1 Android 15.0 AI Box is designed to transform your car's wired CarPlay or Android Auto system into a full-fledged Android infotainment experience. Powered by a Qualcomm SM6350 processor, it offers seamless access to a wide range of applications, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, and advanced navigation capabilities. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.

Figure 1: CarlinKit Ultra1 Android 15.0 AI Box

2. Safety Information

• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device.
• Keep the device away from water, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
• Ensure the device is securely placed in your vehicle to prevent movement during driving.
• Avoid operating the device in a way that distracts you from driving. Always prioritize road safety.
• Use only the provided cables and accessories to prevent damage.

3. Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• CarlinKit Ultra1 AI Box
• USB-A to USB-C Cable
• USB-C to USB-C Cable
• User Manual

Figure 2: CarlinKit Ultra1 AI Box and accessories

4. Specifications

Figure 3: Detailed Product Comparison Table

5. Setup Instructions

Before you begin, ensure your vehicle supports wired CarPlay or wired Android Auto.

5.1 Initial Connection

1. Locate your car's USB port that supports wired CarPlay or Android Auto.
2. Connect the CarlinKit Ultra1 AI Box to this USB port using the provided USB-A to USB-C or USB-C to USB-C cable.
3. The device will power on and an 'Intelligent Interface' will appear on your car's screen, followed by the Android 15.0 home screen.

Video 1: Demonstrates connecting the CarlinKit Ultra1 AI Box to a car's USB port and the initial boot-up sequence.

Figure 4: Connecting the AI Box via USB/Type-C

5.2 SIM and Micro SD Card Installation

The CarlinKit Ultra1 supports a Nano SIM card for 4G LTE network connectivity and a Micro SD card for expandable storage (up to 512GB).

1. Locate the SIM and Micro SD card slots on the side of the AI Box.
2. Carefully insert your Nano SIM card into the designated slot until it clicks into place.
3. Insert your Micro SD card into its slot.

Figure 5: SIM and Micro SD Card Slots

5.3 Bluetooth Pairing

To use wireless CarPlay or Android Auto, or to connect other Bluetooth devices, you need to pair your phone with the AI Box.

1. On the AI Box screen, navigate to 'Settings' and then 'Bluetooth'.
2. Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone.
3. Search for available devices on your phone and select '[AutoKit-TBOX Ultra]' or a similar name.
4. Confirm the pairing request on both your phone and the AI Box.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto

Once paired via Bluetooth, your phone will automatically connect to wireless CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing you to access your phone's features directly on the car screen.

Figure 6: Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto Connectivity

6.2 App Usage and Media Playback

The CarlinKit Ultra1 runs Android 15.0, providing access to the Google Play Store. You can download and use various applications directly on your car's display.

• Navigation: Use pre-installed or downloaded navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, Apple Maps, etc. The built-in GNSS ensures accurate positioning.
• Entertainment: Stream videos from YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, HULU, Twitch, or play local media (videos, music, photos) from a Micro SD card.
• Gaming: Enjoy a variety of games available on the Google Play Store.

Figure 7: Accessing various applications on the car screen

Figure 8: Seamless entertainment and app integration

6.3 Screen Split Functionality

The device supports screen splitting, allowing you to run two applications simultaneously on your car's display, for example, navigation on one side and video playback on the other.

Figure 9: Screen Split feature for multitasking

6.4 Internet Connectivity and Hotspot

The CarlinKit Ultra1 can connect to the internet via a Nano SIM card (4G LTE), your mobile phone's hotspot, or Wi-Fi (2.4GHz+5.8GHz, Wi-Fi 6).

• SIM Card: Insert a Nano SIM card for direct 4G LTE network access.
• Mobile Hotspot: Connect to your smartphone's personal hotspot.
• Wi-Fi Hotspot: The AI Box can also act as a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing other devices in your car to connect to its internet connection (if a SIM card is installed).

Figure 10: Internet Connectivity Options

Figure 11: AI Box as a Wi-Fi Hotspot

6.5 Control Integration

The CarlinKit Ultra1 maintains compatibility with your car's native control functions, including:

• Multi-Function Steering Wheel controls
• Original Car Knob controls
• Touch Screen controls
• Voice Control

Figure 12: Integrated Car Controls

7. Maintenance

7.1 Software Updates (FOTA)

The CarlinKit Ultra1 supports Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA) updates to ensure your system is always up-to-date with the latest features and performance improvements.

1. Ensure the device is connected to a stable internet connection.
2. Navigate to 'Settings' on the AI Box screen.
3. Look for 'System Update' or 'FOTA Update' and check for new versions.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install any available updates. The device may restart during this process.

Figure 13: FOTA Update Process

7.2 Cleaning

Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device not powering on: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the AI Box and the car's USB port. Verify that the car's USB port is active.
• No display on car screen: Check the connection cable. Ensure your car's infotainment system is set to CarPlay or Android Auto mode.
• Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto not connecting: Confirm Bluetooth is enabled and paired correctly. Try restarting both your phone and the AI Box.
• No internet connection: Check if the SIM card is properly inserted and active, or if your mobile hotspot is enabled and discoverable. Verify Wi-Fi settings.
• App performance issues: Ensure the device has sufficient free storage. Close unnecessary background applications. Check for system updates.

9. User Tips

• Compatibility Check: Always confirm your car has factory-installed wired CarPlay or Android Auto before purchasing. This device does not support vehicles with only wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (e.g., some BMW models) or vehicles without either.
• Home Use: This device is specifically designed for in-car use with compatible infotainment systems and is not intended to function as a standalone Android TV box for home use.
• Regional SIM Support: Be aware that specific regional versions (EAU/NA/JP) may have limitations on supported local operators for 5G networks. For example, Japanese and Korean 5G networks are currently not supported.

10. Warranty and Support

The CarlinKit Ultra1 AI Box comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty terms, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided on the product packaging or the official Carlinkit website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

11. Compatibility

The CarlinKit Ultra1 AI Box is compatible with:

• Vehicles: Cars equipped with factory-installed wired Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto.
• iPhones: iPhone 6 and above, running iOS 10.0 and above.
• Android Phones: Android phones running Android 11.0 and above.

Important Note: This device does NOT support cars that only have wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (e.g., some BMW series) or cars without any form of wired CarPlay/Android Auto.

Figure 14: Compatibility Notes

Figure 15: EAU Version Applicable Countries and Regions