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Mirrorlink vs Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto. when it comes to a car stereo, the today standards will be smartphone integration and connectivity. So for those who are upgrading their stereo aka headunit, here's are some stuff you need keep a lookout for. Mirrorlink. MirrorLink is a device interoperability standard that offers integration between a smartphone and a car's infotainment system. MirrorLink transforms smartphones into automotive application platforms where apps are hosted and run on the smartphone while drivers and passengers interact with them through the steering wheel controls, dashboard buttons and touch screens of their car's In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system.[1] MirrorLink utilizes a set of well-established, non-proprietary technologies such as IP, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Real-Time Protocol (RTP, for audio) and Universal Plug and Play (UPnP).[2] In addition, MirrorLink uses Virtual Network Computing (VNC) as the baseline protocol to display the user interface of the smartphone applications on the infotainment system screens and to communicate user input back to the mobile device. You can think of this like a google Chromecast. The primary function is to mirror your phone content to the stereo. The adoption of this technology is somehow mixed. Both the stereo and the phone manufacturer must incorporate the mirrorlink technology before it can be used. So if your stereo has mirrorlink, but your phone doesn't have. It cannot connect. But the good thing is that you can access almost all the apps you have on your phone to the stereo. Apple CarPlay CarPlay is a smarter, safer way to use your iPhone while you drive. And now with an all‑new CarPlay Dashboard that helps you with tunes, turns, and Siri suggestions, a Calendar app that lets you view and manage your day, and maps that reveal more of what’s around you, getting there just got a whole lot easier. And a lot more fun. CarPlay features Siri voice control and is specially designed for driving scenarios. CarPlay also works with your car’s controls — knobs, buttons, touchpad, or touchscreen. And the apps themselves have been reimagined for the car, so you can use them while your eyes and hands stay where they belong. It prioritises safety when driving, so if the app inside the phone means distraction for you, Apple CarPlay will not feature it inside your stereo. So the function is limited. And yes. you need an apple iPhone to have apple carplay. Your stereo must also have licensed the apple carplay then it will pair. Look out for this logo when you are shopping for a stereo Android Auto When there is ying, there is yang. Android auto is the answer to apple carplay for andriod. Android Auto is a mobile app developed by Google to mirror features from an Android device, such as a smartphone, to a car's compatible in-dash information and entertainment head unit. Once an Android device is paired with the head unit, the system mirrors qualified apps from the device to the vehicle's display, with a simple, driver-friendly user interface. Supported apps include GPS mapping/navigation, music playback, SMS, telephone, and web search. The system supports both touchscreen and button-controlled head unit displays, although hands-free operation through voice commands is encouraged to minimize driving distraction. They also prioritize distraction for driver. They minimise your usage of the phone and focus on the apps that you will be using when driving. I personally prefer the android UI. But sadly, I am an iPhone user. Hope this is helpful!

Hi folks, Anybody has used Kenwood DNX9170s that comes with 7" capacitive touch screen and support both Android Autoplay and Apple Carplay ? http://www.kenwood.com/sg/car/visual_navigation/dnx9170s/ Anybody has any price & shop to share ? So far my Google search only shows ~USD890 from eBay and RM3200 from some Malaysia sites. Lastly, can it support car with 360 camera as well as steering wheel remote ? Thanks

Anyone have any affordable Android Auto HU for Qashqai 2016 to recommend, please? Somewhere less than $600 will be good. Do also recommend the installer if possible. Thank you in advanced.

http://www.kenwood.com/sg/car/visual_navigation/ddx916ws/ the latest in the kenwood lineup. anyone here has it installed and can give feedback? thanks in advance