1. Product Overview
The Carlinkit Mini Ultra is a compact 2-in-1 wireless adapter designed to convert wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems into wireless functionality. This device allows for seamless integration of your smartphone's navigation, music, and communication features directly onto your car's display without the need for cables.
Image: The Carlinkit Mini Ultra wireless adapter, shown next to car display interfaces for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Key Features:
- 2-in-1 Wireless Functionality: Converts existing wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to wireless.
- Ultra-Compact Design: Small size for discreet placement in your vehicle.
- Plug & Play: Simple installation with no complex setup required.
- Fast & Stable Connection: Utilizes 5.8GHz WiFi for reduced interference and low latency.
- Automatic Reconnection: Connects automatically after initial pairing.
- Retains Original Car Controls: Supports steering wheel buttons and voice control (Siri/Google Assistant).
- Online Firmware Upgrades: Supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for improved performance and new features.
2. Compatibility
The Carlinkit Mini Ultra adapter is designed for vehicles equipped with factory-installed wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto systems. It is compatible with a wide range of car models manufactured from 2018 onwards.
Vehicle Compatibility:
- Requires OEM wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Supports approximately 98% of car models with wired CarPlay and wired Android Auto.
- Note: BMW and Tesla models are currently not supported.
Smartphone Compatibility:
- For Apple CarPlay: iPhone with iOS 10 or later (e.g., iPhone 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16).
- For Android Auto: Android phones with Android 11.0 or later (e.g., Samsung/Google phones).
Image: A visual representation of compatible car brands (Audi, Buick, Porsche, VW, Mitsubishi, Honda, Mazda, Ford, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, Subaru, Hyundai) and smartphone models (various iPhones and Android phones).
3. Setup and Installation
The Carlinkit Mini Ultra is designed for a simple plug-and-play setup. Follow these steps to get started:
- Plug into Car's USB Port: Insert the Carlinkit Mini Ultra adapter into your car's USB-A or USB-C port. A USB-C adapter is included for versatility.
- Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: On your smartphone, turn on both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- Pair with the Device: Search for the device's Bluetooth signal, typically named "VehiConn_xxxx", and pair with it. The default password is "12345678".
- Confirm Connection: Once paired, your car's display should automatically switch to the wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto interface.
Image: A diagram illustrating the three easy steps for installing the wireless adapter: 1. Plug into the car's USB-A/Type-C port. 2. Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, then pair the device. 3. Use Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.
4. Operating Instructions
After successful setup, the Carlinkit Mini Ultra provides a seamless wireless experience for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Automatic Reconnection:
Once initially paired, the adapter will automatically reconnect to your smartphone within 8-10 seconds each time you start your vehicle, ensuring a quick and convenient start to your journey.
Image: A visual demonstrating the adapter's automatic reconnection feature, showing a car and a smartphone connecting to the adapter within 8-10 seconds.
Using CarPlay/Android Auto:
- Navigation: Access your preferred navigation apps (e.g., Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze) directly on your car's display.
- Music & Media: Stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks from apps like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
- Calls & Messaging: Make and receive calls, and send/receive messages using voice commands or the car's interface.
- Voice Control: Utilize Siri or Google Assistant for hands-free control of various functions.
- Original Car Controls: The adapter retains full functionality of your car's steering wheel buttons and other native controls.
Video: This video demonstrates the setup process and various functions of the Carlinkit Mini Ultra adapter, including wireless CarPlay and Android Auto navigation, music playback, and call management on a car's infotainment screen.
5. Maintenance and Firmware Updates
To ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features, it is recommended to keep your Carlinkit Mini Ultra firmware updated.
Online Firmware Upgrade (OTA):
- Connect Adapter: Ensure the Carlinkit Mini Ultra is plugged into your car's USB-A/Type-C port.
- Connect Phone to Adapter's Wi-Fi: On your smartphone, connect to the adapter's Wi-Fi network, typically named "VehiConn_xxxx" (password: "12345678").
- Access Update Page: Open your phone's web browser and enter the IP address 192.168.50.100.
- Enable Mobile Data: Ensure your phone's mobile data is enabled to access the update server.
- Perform Update: Follow the on-screen instructions to check for and install available updates.
Image: A diagram detailing the three steps for performing an OTA update: 1. Insert the product into the car's USB port. 2. Connect the phone to the product's Wi-Fi. 3. Enter the IP address in a browser to update.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues with your Carlinkit Mini Ultra adapter, please refer to the following common points:
- No Connection: Ensure your car has factory-wired CarPlay/Android Auto. Verify that Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your phone and correctly paired with the adapter.
- Intermittent Connection: Check for strong Wi-Fi signal in your vehicle. Ensure no other devices are interfering with the 5.8GHz Wi-Fi band. Try restarting both the adapter (by unplugging and re-plugging) and your phone.
- Overheating: It is normal for the product to experience some heating during operation. The device undergoes rigorous high-temperature testing to ensure safety and performance.
- Video Playback: This product does not support watching videos directly through the adapter.
- Firmware Update Issues: Ensure your phone has mobile data enabled when accessing the update page via the adapter's Wi-Fi.
7. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | CarlinKit Mini Ultra |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 32.85mm x 20mm x 6.55mm (approx. 1.29 x 0.79 x 0.26 inches) |
| Item Weight | 0.634 ounces (0.02 Kilograms) |
| Connector Type | USB Type A, USB Type C (adapter included) |
| Wireless Technology | 5.8GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Power Consumption | 0.75W |
| Compatible Devices | iPhone (iOS 10+), Android (Android 11.0+) |
| Color | Dark Blue |
Image: The Carlinkit Mini Ultra adapter shown with its dimensions (32.85mm x 20mm) for scale, highlighting its compact size.
8. Warranty and Support
Carlinkit is committed to providing reliable products and excellent customer service.
Warranty:
The Carlinkit Mini Ultra adapter includes a one-year maintenance period from the date of purchase.
Customer Support:
- If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding the product, please contact Carlinkit customer support for assistance.
- Online support and feedback options are available.
- For detailed manuals and further support, visit the official Carlinkit website: www.carlinkit.com/manuals_mini_ultra
Image: An illustration highlighting customer support features, including 7x24 hours online assistance for equipment and adaptation issues.
