Old Android tablets can run Android Auto with Open Headunit
An old Android tablet can be repurposed as an Android Auto display using the Open Headunit app, allowing drivers to navigate, control their phone and play media on a larger, car-friendly screen. This could be particularly useful for vehicles without built-in Android Auto, although the setup requires technical configuration and a suitable way to connect audio to the car.
Open Headunit costs just under $4 on Google Play, or is available free from GitHub, and supports USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and some on-device configurations. Testing found USB to be the most reliable connection, while Bluetooth audio introduced noticeable delay; performance also depends heavily on the tablet’s age and capabilities. The article cautions that older devices were not successfully tested and that leaving a tablet mounted could attract thieves.
- Repurpose an old Android tablet as an Android Auto display.
- Open Headunit is inexpensive but requires technical setup.
- USB generally worked better than wireless connections.
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Originally published by Engadget as “Don’t throw away your old Android tablet — do this instead”.