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So.....I got an android stereo from ebay......

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Old Jul 7, 2014 | 07:07 PM
  #1  
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Default So.....I got an android stereo from ebay......

I have a 2011 jk, cosmo blue, base line sound system.
I upgraded the soundbar speakers thinking this would matter......it did not. Come to find out, the head unit is to blame so.......
I got an ebay android based stereo.
We've all seen them on ebay, apps this, gps that, so I took the bait.
Now, im not a genius but I do know my limitations and I draw the line at electrical. So, as soon as I can, ill be having it installed at bb.
I will let you all know who it goes and how it works because, well, I wish someone else had done this and told the story.

Thanks for reading.
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Old Jul 8, 2014 | 07:18 PM
  #2  
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You'll have to post what you think of the radio! I'm looking to upgrade from stock
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Old Jul 8, 2014 | 07:21 PM
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Keep us updated!
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Old Jul 8, 2014 | 07:54 PM
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I hear you!, I just can't get an appointment to get this damn thing installed!, but when I do, I'll let you guys know what I think.

Right off the bat, from tests I've done with the h.u., it takes a good 45secs to load and turn on, this might be a let down for some but you have to remember, it's just like turning on your tablet/phone/computer......it takes a few to get shit straight!.

More to come after the install. ......
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Old Jul 9, 2014 | 04:47 AM
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Ive had 2 in mine and loved them. My Chinese ebay one failed and my last one isnt full android but a pioneer app radio one. My Android phone connects to it and can use my phone apps.
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Old Jul 9, 2014 | 07:30 AM
  #6  
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Maertz, can you fill me in on what model failed on you?, how long it lasted and if there was any support from the ebay seller?...

Sorry to pry but this could be inportant for some here.....

Thanks!....
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Old Jul 9, 2014 | 08:00 AM
  #7  
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Ive got the Parrot Smart in mine... I like the extendability and use but the head unit itself has almost no support from Parrot. The new head units coming out with Android Auto are something I am waiting for and will switch to it.

Right now with the Smart the things I like are:
Backup camera I can just turn on whenever I want. Makes a great view when on the trails and watching the rig behind you.
Can be rooted. Once rooted I installed the Google Play store and Google maps, search, etc.
I have Torque installed. Connected to a bluetooth ODBII reader so I can see my transmission temps, etc while wheeling. Downfall of the device is no sensors for tilt so I have no idea what my pitch or yaw is.
The unit can be connected to 2 bluetooth devices at the same time... so I can play music from my phone while also connected to the OBDII reader.
Can be tethered to a device either through bluetooth or wifi for data.
Can use a browser... so if you need info while on the road, it works great as long as you have a data connection.
The built in navigation program is IGo and it sucks. I use google maps but it requires a data connection for the map data.
The USB GPS dongle that came with the device failed only a couple months into ownership. Couldnt get support to replace it (again, their customer support is the worst ive ever seen). Found a compatible one online and have been using it since.
Takes about 30 seconds to boot and be fully functional which is typical with these devices. The backup camera can engage around 10 seconds in to bootup... which is good for backing out of a spot, but sometimes not fast enough.

Originally they promised lots of updates and whatnot... and have fallen short. They said that the second set of video input could be used as a dash cam and record... but never implemented the functionality. They also refuse to natively let you use the Play store or other google apps. Stock and unrooted you can only use apps from their "store" which is extremely limited.
Screen is super responsive which is nice. Glare is acceptable... and you are only limited when its full sunlight on the screen.
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Old Jul 10, 2014 | 06:46 PM
  #8  
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Ok, I got it installed, first things first.
It is not a standard size 2din h.u., it's a bit taller and narrower than normal so install had to be "custom", it looks cookie but under the circumstances, acceptable.
1st impression was good, and that's from the shop owner!, he had never installed an android stereo before and was amused to see all the features the h.u. has.
Hardware is sturdy to the touch.
Power up is about 45sec.
gps lock is fast and accurate.

I'm tired and half way through a 72oz stout screwdriver, more tomorrow.

Thanks for your time.
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Old Dec 23, 2014 | 02:24 PM
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Any update on this. Im thinking about going this route.
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Old Dec 23, 2014 | 03:00 PM
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Must have been one helluva screwdriver!
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