A self-contained display unit designed to run the Android Auto interface without being permanently installed in a vehicle’s dashboard provides drivers with access to navigation, communication, and entertainment features. These devices typically connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth or USB and mirror the Android Auto environment onto their screen. Examples range from small, dash-mounted units to larger, tablet-style displays.
These offer a flexible solution for vehicles lacking built-in Android Auto compatibility, providing a modern infotainment experience without requiring extensive modifications. The benefit lies in the ease of installation and transferability between vehicles. Historically, drivers relied on aftermarket head units or phone mounts to achieve similar functionality, but these present installation complexities or limited feature sets.