Yes—but the $4 claim is the app-cost shorthand, not the total cost of a complete installation. Open Headunit can turn an existing Android phone or tablet into an Android Auto receiver, so you can use it as a separate display in a car that lacks built-in Android Auto. It does not upgrade the car’s original stereo. You’ll also need a suitable Android device, a secure mount and a compatible connection; the app’s Google Play listing currently shows $3.99.
What the $4 Android Auto setup actually does
Open Headunit runs on an Android phone or tablet and receives the Android Auto interface. The device becomes a screen in the car; the vehicle’s factory head unit remains unchanged. The project describes Open Headunit as “an Android app that allows you to turn your Android tablet or phone into an Android Auto receiver.” (developer’s GitHub repository)
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In the method described by Mark Jansen at Android Police, an older Android device serves as the display while the main phone provides Android Auto over USB-C. Open Headunit also has a Self Mode for running the interface on the same device. Which route works depends on the app and Android Auto versions and your devices.
What you need—and what the app price leaves out
- An Android phone or tablet to use as the display. The setup guide also requires Android Auto on the phone. (Open Headunit setup guide)
- Open Headunit. Google Play currently lists it at $3.99; the price may change. The app is also available from the developer’s GitHub. (Google Play listing; developer’s GitHub repository)
- A connection between devices. The developer’s guide lists USB or a stable Wi-Fi connection and recommends wired USB for stability. Check that your devices’ ports and cable are compatible.
- A secure cradle or mount for the display device, if you don’t already have one. Its cost is separate from the app.
So “just $4” is plausible if you already own a suitable spare device, mount and cable. If not, the full cost depends on what you need to buy; the available sources do not establish a total installed price.
#1 Best Overall
- Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto: Simply connect your phone via Bluetooth for instant access to music, maps, and messages - all displayed on your 7" car stereo screen. Use voice commands with Siri/Google Assistant to stay hands-free and focused on the road
- Ultra-Clear QLED Display: Feast your eyes on a 7" QLED screen with 1280×720 resolution, can support 1080P video playback with vivid colors and razor-sharp details. Whether you're streaming movies or checking maps, every image pops with stunning clarity - day or night
- 4.2-Channel Stereo Surround Sound System: Experience studio-quality audio with 4.2-channel output (Rear Right/Left Speaker, Front Right/Left Speaker output + Dual Subwoofers), delivering rich, balanced sound and powerful bass. Fine-tune your music with custom EQ settings for the perfect soundstage. Built with high-performance components for crisp, distortion-free audio at any volume. Perfect for audiophiles who demand concert-like sound on the road
- Support Rear and Front View Camera: Parking has never been easier with this premium double din car stereo which supports front and rear camera, comes with a built-in rear view camera supporting HD night-vision images for a safer and time-efficient experience! Simply shift into reverse and the system powers on the camera automatically, for optimal visibility no matter the weather conditions(Rear view camera included)
- Enhanced Safety & Convenience with Steering Wheel Control (SWC): Adjust volume, skip tracks, and make a call without taking your hands off the wheel. The car stereo integrates seamlessly with your car’s controls for a distraction-free ride. Tips: An additional interface (purchase separately) is required
Set it up before driving
Android Auto and Open Headunit can change, so use the developer’s current setup guide and version notes alongside these reported steps. Complete setup while parked, not on the road.
- Install Open Headunit on the Android device you plan to use as the display. Confirm Android Auto is installed on the phone that will provide the connection.
- On the phone, open Android Auto settings and tap the Version entry repeatedly to enable developer mode. Menu labels and access can vary by Android version.
- Open Android Auto’s developer menu and start Android Auto Headunit Server.
- Connect the devices using a compatible USB cable, or use a stable Wi-Fi connection if following the wireless setup.
- On the display device, open Open Headunit and start Self Mode if using the same-device method. For a separate display, follow the current guide for its receiver setup.
The exact labels or sequence may differ across app releases. The developer’s setup guide is the reference for current instructions.
Rank #2
- 【10.1-Inch QLED Display · Universal Double Din Fit】 This 10.1-inch car stereo features a full QLED screen with wide viewing angles and high sensitivity for clear visuals even in bright sunlight. Compatible with most single/double din dash openings—please confirm size and prepare a proper dash kit if needed.
- 【Wireless & Wired Carplay/Android Auto with Voice Control】 This car audio receiver supports both wireless and wired Carplay and Android Auto, letting you access maps, calls, music, and voice assistants (Siri & Google) safely while driving. An microphone ensures accurate voice recognition for enhanced hands-free convenience and smarter control. (Wired Connection: Please connect to the rear USB1 port)
- 【Hi-Fi Sound with Built-in DSP & Dual Subwoofer Output】 Equipped with an advanced DSP chip and a 10-band EQ, this car audio system offers precise audio tuning for a premium listening experience. 4×60W peak power output and dual subwoofer support deliver deep, rich bass and clean sound across all frequencies.
- 【Independent Bluetooth & Mirror Link Functionality】 Enjoy robust, interference-free connections with the upgraded independent Bluetooth module—ideal for hands-free calling and music streaming. Supports Mirror Link for iOS and Android phones via rear USB1 port, allowing your smartphone screen to sync directly to this car radio for convenient access to apps, videos, and more. (Please connect to the rear USB1 port; do not use the Type-C port, as it supports fast charge only)
- 【Music-Activated Ambient Light · Drive with Rhythm & Energy】 Unique to this double din car stereo, dynamic LED ambient lighting above the screen pulses in sync with your music, creating a vibrant and immersive visual effect. Especially at night, the rhythmic lighting helps relieve eye fatigue and adds excitement and energy to every drive.
Android Auto 17.4+ changes the Self-Mode startup step
The developer says Android Auto 17.4 and newer affects third-party wireless triggers, including Self-Mode. Its current guidance, also reflected in the Play listing, is to start Android Auto Headunit Server on the smartphone for Self-Mode and wireless startup. If the interface does not launch, check the developer’s current version notes and the app listing rather than assuming the workaround is incompatible.
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Jansen reported trying the method on a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. He found portrait orientation short on horizontal room for the interface elements he wanted, while landscape worked better; he also found the phone’s outer display small for adjusting settings. In his account, a larger tablet could make a better display. These are one author’s observations, not a compatibility or performance guarantee for other devices. ( Android Police report by Mark Jansen )
Rank #3
- 【High Quality Car Stereo Player】- Our double din car stereo size with 7.01"(L)*3.94"(W)2.56"(H), please check the size of your car's radio before ordering. 7inch double din car stereo with 1024*600 Full HD touch screen gives you a fantastic experience. You can enjoy the stream music and the clear picture with your family. Hope you have a good time.
- 【Double Din Car Stereo Phone Mirror Link】- Support mirrorlink and navigation function for most the android cell phone and iPhone, you can connect your smartphone to car audio via a smartphone data cable, easily connect and sync any content (such as video, music, GPS Navigation etc) to the car player displayed on a large screen. Note: the stereo player is not a GPS unit, it gets GPS navigation function by connecting to the cellphone.
- 【7 inch Double Din Car Radio With Bluetooth 5.0 and FM 】- Bluetooth 5.0 and microphone allow you to answer callings, listen to music and media sounds from devices with Bluetooth function. Take Phone Call Hands Free - Free both your hands by dialing and listening to a call on radio by BT connection. It will ensure the safety of your way. High-quality FM radio stereo receiver, three kinds of channel search mode, listen to music, news and traffic information, anywhere and enjoy yourself.
- 【Car Stereo Double Din Inputs】- USB /SD/AUX input. car audio receivers support vast USB, TF Card(Up to 32G) storage equipment, you can download the songs and videos you like into the storage equipment to play. AUX audio input, support external aux(3.5mm plug) to input into the audio, such as navigation, MP3, MP5. Charging function, the USB interfaces are support of cellphones' charging, no worries about having no power. Support Remote Control.
- 【Standard Double Din Stereo with Backup Camera】- Parking has never been easier with this premium double din car stereo which supports front and rear camera, for a safer and time-efficient experience! Simply shift into reverse and the system powers on the camera automatically, for optimal visibility no matter the weather conditions! If you encounter any operation or other problems, please contact us (click "Contact Seller" on your order page)
Before relying on a spare device, check that it can run the required Android Auto and Open Headunit versions, that the display is readable in your mounting position, and that the mount holds it securely. The method involves preparation, and results may vary by device, connection and software version.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When this workaround makes sense
Open Headunit is worth considering if you already have a usable Android device and want a low-cost way to add an Android Auto display without replacing the car’s stereo. Compare it with a dedicated aftermarket display or head unit if you need a larger screen, a simpler installation or a setup purpose-built for the vehicle. The trade-offs to weigh are total cost, setup effort, screen size and orientation, wired versus wireless connection, and compatibility with your Android Auto and app versions. The reporting on this method does not provide a price comparison for aftermarket products.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Wired and Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto with Voice Control: The double din car stereo supports wireless apple car play and android auto. Connecting Phone wireless automaticly, as soon as you start the car. You can get directions from GPS navigation apps from phone link like Google Maps and Waze, planing the route for you, put on your personal playlist on Spotify (from phones), have Siri / Google Assistant (from phones) call a friend, etc. Let AI deal with the stress and focus on the wheel!
- High Fidelity Sound Quality with Built-in DSP: Built in DPS with 4.2 channels Pre Amplifier with max 240W output, FR, FL, RR, RL, adjusting music effect wherever position. 2 Subwoofer speakers outputs that delivers outstanding sound quality and breathtaking bass effects. With 10 band EQ Audio Equalizer that allows to adjust the music effect as like. To reduce the effect to music quality of overheating, adds a large heat sink in unit and increase the space for heat disspation.
- High-Quality Bluetooth Connection with Independent Bluetooth 5.3 Module & Extra Antenna: Independent Bluetooth 5.3 Module with extral Bluetooth antenna, improving transmission efficiency, reducing static noise, hands free calling and audio streaming of the car play screen. Powerfull upgraded smart chip, faster connection, lower delay of signal. Built-in microphone and external microphone interface, make phone calls or voice command more stable, clearly and smoother, while you stay focused on the road.
- Immersive 7-Inch IPS Touchscreen& Wired Mirror Link:Effortlessly connect compatible devices, enabling to enjoy videos and other content on the expansive 7-inch IPS HD touchscreen. With a dazzling resolution of 1024x600, every image and video comes to life with stunning clarity, vivid colors, and breathtaking detail. Attention: This stereo comes NO Wi-Fi hotspot function!
- Safety Driving Effortless SWC Control Features: equipped with Steering Wheel Control (SWC) integration, offers enhanced convenience and safety by allowing you to control various functions directly from your steering wheel. Effortlessly adjust volume, change tracks, and activate voice commands without taking hands off the wheel. Ensures a smoother and more intuitive driving experience, enabling to stay focused on the road ahead while enjoying seamless control over car's entertainment system.
Rank #4
- Hands-Free Calling: This Pioneer in-dash receiver features built-in Bluetooth, enabling easy hands-free calling through compatible smartphones, with crystal-clear sound provided by Pioneer’s included external microphone
- Seamless Smartphone Integration: Enjoy wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy access to Maps, Music, Messages, Calls, Podcasts, and more—keeping you connected while driving safely
- Customizable Sound: Fine-tune your audio with the 13-band equalizer, allowing you to adjust sound settings to match your car’s acoustics and speaker setup, or choose from multiple EQ presets for an optimized listening experience
- Touchscreen Display: With this 6.8” WVGA capacitive touchscreen display, upgrade your ride and enjoy all the features this head unit has to offer
- Back Up Camera Input (1-Camera): Install a rear-view camera to use the receiver's built in parking guides, featuring customizable parking lines and a full-screen display for clear, easy navigation and safer parking
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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