Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box Android 13.0 User Manual

1. Introduction

The Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box Android 13.0 is a versatile device designed to enhance your in-car entertainment and connectivity. It integrates wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and a full Android 13.0 operating system into one unit, transforming your vehicle's OEM wired CarPlay system into a smart multimedia hub. This manual provides instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Image 1.1: The Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box, showcasing its ability to display YouTube and Netflix content on a car's screen.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Packing box x 1
• Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box x 1
• Data Cable x 2 (USB-A to USB-C, USB-C to USB-C)
• Product manual x 1

Note: Micro SD and SIM cards are not included and must be purchased separately if desired for expanded functionality.

Image 2.1: Visual representation of the Carlinkit AI Box and its included accessories, such as the data cables and user manual.

3. Specifications

Image 3.1: Detailed view of the Carlinkit AI Box's internal components and specifications, including RAM, ROM, CPU, and WiFi capabilities.

4. Compatibility

The Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box is designed for vehicles equipped with factory-installed wired Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto. It supports a wide range of car models from 2017 to 2025. Please note that it is not compatible with BMW and Tesla models.

4.1 Phone Compatibility

• Wireless CarPlay: Requires iPhone 6 or later running iOS 10.0 or later.
• Wireless Android Auto: Requires an Android phone running Android 11.0 or later.

Image 4.1: An illustration detailing the compatibility requirements for both wireless Android Auto (Android 11.0 or later) and wireless CarPlay (iPhone 6 or later / iOS 10.0 or later), alongside various compatible car brands.

5. Setup Instructions

5.1 Initial Connection for Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto

1. Plug in the adapter: Connect the Carlinkit AI Box to your car's USB port using one of the provided data cables. Ensure your car's engine is running or the ignition is on.
2. Enable Wireless and Bluetooth: On your smartphone, ensure both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on.
3. Pair with your device: Search for the Carlinkit AI Box Bluetooth signal on your phone and pair with it. After successful pairing, wireless CarPlay or wireless Android Auto will be accessible within a few seconds.

Image 5.1: A three-step guide illustrating how to connect the Carlinkit AI Box: plug in, enable phone's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and pair for wireless CarPlay or Android Auto.

5.2 Accessing the Android 13.0 Open System

There are two primary methods to access the full Android 13.0 operating system on your car's screen:

Method 1: Using Mobile Hotspot

1. Plug in the device: Connect the Carlinkit AI Box to your car's USB port.
2. Enter Android 13.0 system: The device will automatically boot into the Android 13.0 open system.
3. Open Personal Hotspot: On your phone, navigate to settings and enable your personal hotspot.
4. Connect to hotspot: On the car's screen (via the AI Box), connect to your phone's Wi-Fi hotspot.

Method 2: Using a SIM Card

1. Insert SIM card: Carefully insert a 4G SIM card into the designated SIM card slot on the Carlinkit AI Box. Ensure the metal side is facing up. Incorrect insertion can damage the card slot.
2. Insert Micro SD card (optional): If desired, insert a Micro SD card for additional storage into its slot, metal side up.
3. Plug in the device: Connect the Carlinkit AI Box to your car's USB port.
4. Enter Android 13.0 system: The device will automatically boot into the Android 13.0 open system, utilizing the SIM card for network access.

Image 5.2: A visual guide demonstrating two methods to access the Android 13.0 system: connecting via a personal hotspot or by inserting a SIM card and Micro SD card directly into the device.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Using Built-in Applications

The Android 13.0 system comes with pre-installed applications such as Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and Waze. These can be accessed directly from the car's screen once the Android system is active.

Image 6.1: A car's infotainment screen showing various built-in applications, including Netflix, YouTube, TikTok, and Waze, available through the Carlinkit AI Box.

6.2 Downloading Additional Applications

You can download a wide range of additional applications from the Google Play Store directly onto the Carlinkit AI Box. Ensure the device has an active internet connection (via SIM card or mobile hotspot) to access the Play Store.

Image 6.2: The car's screen interface showing the Google Play Store, indicating the ability to download and install more applications onto the Carlinkit AI Box.

6.3 Voice Control

The device supports voice control through Google Assistant (for Android) and Siri (for Apple CarPlay). This allows for hands-free operation of navigation, music playback, calls, and other functions, promoting safer driving.

Image 6.3: An illustration demonstrating the use of original car controls (touchpad, knob, touch, steering wheel) and voice assistants (Siri, Google Voice) for interacting with the Carlinkit AI Box.

6.4 Internet Connectivity

The Carlinkit AI Box offers flexible internet connectivity options:

• 4G LTE: Utilize the built-in 4G module by inserting a SIM card for direct mobile data access.
• Wi-Fi: Connect to your mobile phone's hotspot or any available Wi-Fi network using the dual-band (2.4G/5G) Wi-Fi feature.

Image 6.4: A visual representation of the Carlinkit AI Box's networking capabilities, highlighting the SIM card slot for 4G connectivity and the option to connect via a mobile phone hotspot.

7. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box, follow these general maintenance guidelines:

• Keep Clean: Regularly wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not expose the device to extreme heat or cold, as this can affect its internal components.
• Handle with Care: Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
• Proper Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the device in a cool, dry place.
• Software Updates: Periodically check for and install any available software updates to ensure the device has the latest features and bug fixes.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:

• No Power/Device Not Starting: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the AI Box and the car's USB port. Try a different USB port in your car if available. Verify the car's ignition is on.
• No Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto Connection: Confirm that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone. Ensure your phone is paired correctly via Bluetooth to the AI Box. Restart both your phone and the AI Box.
• No Internet Access (Android System): If using a SIM card, ensure it is correctly inserted and has an active data plan. If using a mobile hotspot, verify your phone's hotspot is active and the AI Box is connected to it. Check Wi-Fi signal strength.
• Apps Crashing/Slow Performance: Close unused applications. Ensure the device has sufficient storage space. Restart the device.
• Screen Freezing: Disconnect and reconnect the AI Box from the car's USB port.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, please refer to the support section for further assistance.

9. Support

For technical assistance or any problems encountered while using the Carlinkit CarPlay AI Box, please contact our customer service team. Our personnel are available to provide help and technical support.

Contact information can typically be found on the Carlinkit official website or through your purchase platform.