Infotainment System Updates for Android
Infotainment System Updates for Android
Blog Article
With today's connected world, an outdated infotainment system can leave your car feeling years old—regardless of how it performs. For Android users in particular, swapping out for a newer infotainment system can turn daily drives, road trips, and even short errands into smarter, safer, and more enjoyable rides. No matter whether your car is five or fifteen years old, Android-supported infotainment system upgrades have never been easier or more affordable.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about upgrading your car's infotainment system for Android—from benefits and must-have features to product choices and installation tips.
Why Upgrade to an Infotainment System Updates for Android?
Today's infotainment systems are more than just music—they provide a full digital dashboard experience. Upgrading allows you to access:
✅ Android Auto Integration
Android Auto provides easy access to Google Maps, Waze, WhatsApp, Spotify, YouTube Music, and Google Assistant—all designed for use behind the wheel.
✅ Hands-Free Safety
Voice controls minimize screen or phone touching, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.
✅ Advanced Navigation
Access real-time traffic alerts, route recommendations, and offline maps via Google Maps or Waze.
✅ Entertainment on the Go
Stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks over high-quality audio with minimal distraction.
✅ Improved Connectivity
The majority of upgraded systems have Bluetooth, WiFi, USB-C, and even wireless Android Auto in newer models.
Types of Infotainment System Upgrades
1. Android Auto Head Units
These are full replacements for your car's current infotainment system. Offered by brands such as Sony, Pioneer, and Blaupunkt, these units usually provide touchscreens ranging from 6 to 10 inches.
Best for: Full-featured integration with Android Auto
Price Range: ₹15,000–₹45,000
2. Plug-and-Play Android Display Screens
These screens mount over your dashboard or rearview mirror and support Android Auto via USB or WiFi dongles.
Best for: Budget buyers or temporary installations
Price Range: ₹7,000–₹20,000
3. Wireless Android Auto Retrofit Kits
These transform an already-wired Android Auto system to a wireless one via a USB dongle or interface box.
Best for: Vehicles that already have wired Android Auto support
Price Range: ₹5,000–₹12,000
4. Full Android Systems (Android OS)
Some head units have full Android 10/11/12 operating systems and provide Play Store access, allowing you to download apps directly without a phone.
Best for: Users who like to tinker and customize deeply
Price Range: ₹18,000–₹35,000
Key Features to Look For
When buying an Android-compatible infotainment system, look for the following features:
Feature Benefit
Android Auto (Wired/Wireless) Direct integration with your Android phone
Large Touchscreen (6.95"–10.1") Improved visibility and simpler controls
Google Assistant Compatibility Voice control for safer driving
Bluetooth & WiFi Easy media streaming and hands-free calling
Rear Camera Input Adds support for reverse parking cameras
Steering Wheel Control Support Retain OEM button functionality
Fast Boot Time Quick startup when the ignition turns on
Expandable Storage Add USB drives or SD cards for media
Best Infotainment System Upgrades for Android Users in India (2025)
Model Brand Screen Size Wireless Android Auto Price
Sony XAV-AX5500 Sony 6.95” No (wired only) ₹24,000
Pioneer DMH-Z5290BT Pioneer 7” Yes ₹28,000
Blaupunkt New York 750 Blaupunkt 10.1” Yes ₹30,000
HIKITY Android 11 Head Unit HIKITY 10.1” Yes (Android OS) ₹16,000
Carlinkit TBox Plus Carlinkit N/A (plugs into display) Yes ₹11,000
Installation Choices: DIY vs Professional
????️ DIY Installation
Certain Android infotainment systems, particularly dashboard-mount displays, can be installed quite simply with little wiring.
Tools Required: Screwdriver, trim remover, wiring harness
Skill Level: Moderate
Time Estimate: 1–2 hours
???? Professional Installation
For head unit replacements or more complex systems with integration for steering controls and rearview cameras, professional assistance means a tidy and safe installation.
Cost: ₹1,500–₹5,000 (dependent on complexity)
Where: Car accessory stores, brand-authorized installation centers
Compatibility: Will It Work with Your Car?
Prior to purchasing, ensure the unit accommodates:
Your vehicle's make and model (Verify mounting size: single-DIN or double-DIN)
Steering wheel controls
Current camera or parking sensors
Battery voltage (12V systems are the norm)
Connectivity with Android 10+ for optimal Auto support
Most major manufacturers include compatibility charts, or you can ask installers for verification.
Benefits Beyond Android Auto
Replacing your infotainment system does not only introduce Android Auto—it introduces a complete array of features that bring your vehicle up to date:
Split-screen multitasking (in Android OS systems)
Offline playback of media
MirrorLink or screen mirroring
FM/AM radio with RDS information
Integrated GPS antenna for navigation support
Touch-based volume and navigation gestures
Things to Watch Out For
Concern Solution
Slow Performance Select units with a minimum 2GB RAM and quad-core processor
Incompatibility with steering controls Use a steering control interface (e.g., Axxess ASWC-1)
Overheating in Indian summers Provision good ventilation or select units with thermal protection
Fake or low-quality brands Stick with known names or highly reviewed Indian alternatives
Old Android versions
Opt for Android 10 or later for improved app compatibility and performance
Where to Buy in India
✅ Online Retailers
Amazon India
Flipkart
CarHatke
Boodmo
AliExpress (for older Android OS devices)
???? Offline Shops
Car accessory stores in prominent cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai sell bundles with installation.
???? Authorized Retailers
Pioneer, Blaupunkt, and Sony retailers tend to offer certified installation and warranty-covered products.
Final Thoughts
An infotainment system upgrade designed specifically for Android users can give your car a new lease on life, making any trip a smart, hands-free one. Whether retrofitting an older sedan from the last decade or just upgrading your current setup, there's an extensive variety of Android-compatible systems to fit any car and budget.
From plug-and-play dashboards to robust full-Android units with Google Assistant and GPS included, infotainment choices available today combine convenience, safety, and entertainment unlike ever before. So, whether you're an Android user and still messing with your phone holder, it's time to elevate your ride.