1. Introduction
The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter enhances your in-car infotainment experience by converting your factory wired CarPlay system into a full Android 13.0 operating system. This device enables access to various applications, navigation, and wireless connectivity features directly on your car's touchscreen display.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- CarlinKit Ai Box Adapter x1
- USB-A to USB-C Cable x1
- USB-C to USB-C Cable x1
- Manual x1
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter, along with its USB-A to USB-C and USB-C to USB-C cables, and the user manual.
3. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter:
3.1. Compatibility Check
Ensure your vehicle has factory wired CarPlay and a touchscreen display. The device is compatible with iPhone 6 or above (iOS 10.0+) and Android phones with Android 10.0+ (for wireless Android Auto). Incompatible vehicles include BMW Series, Nissan Series, Changan series, Mitsubishi, and Polestar.
3.2. Inserting SIM/TF Card (Optional)
The device supports a 4G full Netcom module for networking. A SIM card (not included) can be inserted for direct network access. A TF card (not included) can be inserted for expanded storage.
- SIM Card: Insert the SIM card with the metal face down into the SIM Card Port.
- TF Card: Insert the TF card with the metal face down into the TF Card Port.
Note: Do not insert the SIM/TF card backward. Incorrect insertion may damage the product's card slot.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter with clearly labeled SIM card and TF card ports, indicating proper insertion direction.
3.3. Connecting to Your Car
- Select the appropriate USB data cable (USB-A to USB-C or USB-C to USB-C) based on your car's USB port type.
- Connect one end of the data cable to the CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter.
- Insert the other end of the data cable into your car's built-in wired CarPlay USB port.
- The device will power on, indicated by LED lights.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter connected to a car's USB port, showing the device's compact size and LED indicators.
Video: Demonstrates the physical connection of the CarlinKit AI Box Plus to a car's USB port and the initial boot-up process.
3.4. Initial Boot-up and Android System Access
Upon successful connection, your car's display will show the "Intelligent Interconnection System" loading screen, powered by Android. The device will then boot into the Android 13.0 system interface.
Video: Demonstrates the Android 13 system interface and various applications available on the CarlinKit AI Box Max Adapter.
3.5. Network Connection
To access online features, connect the device to the internet:
- Via SIM Card: If a SIM card is inserted, the device will attempt to connect to the 4G/3G/2G network automatically.
- Via Mobile Hotspot: You can use your mobile phone's hotspot to provide internet to the device.
- Via Car's Built-in Network: If your car has a built-in network subscription, the device can connect to it.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter highlighting its SIM card port and the option to connect via mobile hotspot for internet access.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Android 13.0 System
The device runs on an open Android 13.0 system, allowing you to download and use various applications from the Google Play Store. Navigate the interface using your car's touchscreen.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter displaying the Android 13.0 system interface with icons for various applications like YouTube, Netflix, and the Play Store.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter showing the Google Play Store on the car's display, indicating app download capabilities.
Video: Demonstrates the application display within the Android 12 system of the CarlinKit AI Box.
4.2. Wireless CarPlay
To use wireless CarPlay, ensure your iPhone is iPhone 6 or above with iOS 10.0+.
- On your car's display, click the "AutoKit" app icon.
- On your iPhone, turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Pair your iPhone to the car's Bluetooth signal (e.g., "AutoKit-TBox Plus").
- Wait for a moment, and wireless CarPlay will activate on your car's screen.
Image: A visual guide showing the three steps to connect to Wireless CarPlay using the CarlinKit AI Box, including phone pairing and screen display.
4.3. Wireless Android Auto
To use wireless Android Auto, ensure your Android phone is running Android 10.0+.
- On your car's display, click the "AutoKit" app icon.
- On your Android phone, turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Pair your Android phone to the car's Bluetooth signal (e.g., "AutoKit-TBox Plus").
- Wait for a moment, and wireless Android Auto will activate on your car's screen.
Image: A visual guide showing the three steps to connect to Wireless Android Auto using the CarlinKit AI Box, including phone pairing and screen display.
4.4. Navigation
The device features built-in GPS, GLONASS, and Beidou for real-time online navigation. You can use pre-installed map applications like Google Maps or download others from the Google Play Store.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter displaying GPS navigation with Google Maps on the car's screen, showing route information.
4.5. Media Playback
Enjoy various media content directly on your car's display. The Android system supports streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and more. You can also play games.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter displaying a variety of media applications such as Google Maps, Waze, YouTube, Netflix, and YouTube Music on the car's screen.
Video: Highlights the Android 12 system's performance configuration and its ability to support various media apps like YouTube and TikTok on the car's display.
4.6. Voice Assistant
The device supports voice assistants for hands-free control, allowing you to manage navigation, calls, and music using voice commands.
Image: The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter demonstrating voice assistant capabilities for online maps, phone calls, and split-screen functions, along with steering wheel and knob controls.
4.7. Split Screen Functionality
Utilize the split-screen feature to run two applications simultaneously, such as navigation and a media player, for enhanced multitasking.
5. Maintenance
- Keep the device clean and free from dust.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the device to prevent overheating.
- For optimal performance, regularly check for and install available software updates.
6. Troubleshooting
- Device Not Powering On: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the device and the car's CarPlay USB port. Verify the car's USB port is active.
- No CarPlay/Android Auto Connection:
- Confirm Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone.
- Ensure your phone is correctly paired with the "AutoKit-TBox Plus" Bluetooth signal.
- Restart both the device and your phone.
- Network Connectivity Issues:
- Check SIM card insertion and activation status.
- Verify your mobile hotspot is active and correctly configured.
- Ensure your car's built-in network (if used) is subscribed and active.
- Audio/Video Sync Issues: If experiencing audio/video synchronization problems, especially with streaming apps, try restarting the application or the device. Ensure a stable internet connection.
- Software Performance Issues: If the device experiences slow boot times or app unresponsiveness, ensure the firmware is up to date. Contact customer support for assistance with firmware updates.
Video: Provides instructions on how to install applications on the CarlinKit AI Box.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Android AI Box |
| Item Model Number | Carlinkit CarPlay Ai Box |
| Operating System | Android 13.0, iOS (via CarPlay) |
| Processor | Qualcomm 8-core chip processor (SM6625) |
| Memory | 8GB RAM + 128GB ROM |
| Connectivity | 2.4G+5G WiFi, 4.2 BLE+5.0 BLE, 4G Full Netcom Module (SIM card required) |
| Navigation | Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Beidou |
| Special Features | Voice Recognition, Split Screen |
| Item Weight | 5.3 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 3.11 x 3.11 x 0.55 inches |
8. Warranty
The CarlinKit Android AI Box Adapter comes with a One Year Warranty.
9. Support
For general questions about the use of our products, you can contact us 24 hours a day. You may also refer to our "Product guides and documents" for additional information.
