Are you looking to upgrade your car's head unit but don't want to spend a fortune? Installing a CarPlay screen, such as the RetroScreen - may be the perfect solution. Apple CarPlay is a revolutionary technology that allows you to control your car's infotainment system with your smartphone.
By installing a free-standing CarPlay screen instead of replacing your car's head unit, you can enjoy the convenience of Apple CarPlay without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we'll discuss the advantages of installing a CarPlay screen instead of replacing your car's head unit.
Understanding CarPlay Screens and Head Units
CarPlay Screens and Head Units are two different components of an in-car infotainment system that are used to access entertainment, communication, and navigation features. While Head Unit is the main console in your car that allows you to interact with various features, CarPlay Screens are an external display that can be added to the Head Unit for iPhone (and Android) integration.
CarPlay is a popular iOS-based platform designed by Apple that lets you use your iPhone while driving with Siri voice control and iOS compatibility. It is available in a number of CarPlay-supported vehicles or can be added to your existing car using aftermarket systems, such as the RetroScreen.
The CarPlay interface is similar to the dashboard display of your iPhone, and you can access various CarPlay apps, such as Apple Maps, music, messages, and phone calls, on your CarPlay Screen. CarPlay also supports third-party apps, so you can use Spotify, Waze, and other popular apps for CarPlay navigation and entertainment.
Wireless CarPlay is another useful feature of the CarPlay system that allows you to connect your iPhone to your car wirelessly and use it without any cables. CarPlay audio integration is also possible with a wireless connection.
CarPlay wireless mirroring allows you to display your iPhone screen on the CarPlay Screen and use the multitasking feature for easy access to various apps. However, CarPlay has some restrictions, such as not allowing you to use social media or video playback while driving, for safety reasons.
Replacing your car's Head Unit with a new one can be an expensive option, but installing a CarPlay Screen can be a more affordable solution. You can purchase a free-standing CarPlay Screen that can be mounted on your dashboard or on a console between the front seats.
One of the benefits of installing a free-standing CarPlay Screen is that it is easy to install and set up. You do not have to worry about any wiring or compatibility issues, as long as your iPhone is compatible with the CarPlay system. You can also remove the CarPlay Screen easily and use it in another car or as a portable entertainment device.
In summary, if you are looking for an affordable and convenient way to access your iPhone's features while driving, installing a CarPlay Screen can be a smarter decision than replacing your car's Head Unit with an expensive one. With its easy installation, wireless connectivity, and compatibility with various CarPlay apps, the CarPlay Screen can enhance your driving experience without breaking the bank.
The Cost Comparison Between a Free-Standing CarPlay Screen and a New Head Unit
Upgrading your car's infotainment system is a wise decision to improve your driving experience. If you're considering upgrading to CarPlay, you have two options: a free-standing CarPlay screen, such as the RetroScreen or a new head unit with built-in CarPlay connectivity.
A new head unit with built-in CarPlay can be a great upgrade, but it can also be costly. A high-quality head unit can easily cost you upwards of $500-900, not to mention the installation costs...
On the other hand, a free-standing CarPlay screen can be a more affordable and practical solution for many drivers. These aftermarket systems are designed to work with your existing head unit and can be easily installed by yourself or a professional installer.
For example, the RetroScreen is a free-standing CarPlay screen that costs around $200 and can be installed in any car. It offers all the features you need for CarPlay connectivity, such as Siri voice control, Apple Music, and other popular apps.
The RetroScreen is also compatible with Android phones, providing them with Android Auto.
Overall, the cost of installing a free-standing CarPlay screen is significantly lower than replacing your car's head unit with an expensive one. You can enjoy all the benefits of CarPlay without spending too much money or losing the original look and feel of your car's dashboard.
Additionally, free-standing CarPlay screens offer many other advantages over head units. For example, they are much easier to install and remove, which makes them a more flexible option if you want to switch to a different car or upgrade your system in the future.
Moreover, free-standing CarPlay screens can receive regular CarPlay updates, which means you can enjoy new features and improvements without having to buy a new head unit every time.
Benefits of Installing a Free-Standing CarPlay Screen
Are you a fan of Apple's CarPlay? If so, you may be considering installing a CarPlay screen in your car, such as the RetroScreen. A free-standing CarPlay screen can offer you a great deal of benefits without the need to replace your car's head unit. Let's explore some of these benefits in more detail.
Compatibility with Multiple Car Models
One of the most significant benefits of installing a free-standing CarPlay screen is its compatibility with multiple car models. Whether you own a new or old car, you can still enjoy the convenience and safety features of CarPlay. The best part? You don't have to worry about changing the entire head unit of your car.
Ease of Installation
Another great benefit of a free-standing CarPlay screen is the ease of installation. You don't need to be an expert or have any technical know-how to install a CarPlay setup. All you need to do is connect the screen to your car's audio system, and voila! You're good to go.
Replacing your car's head unit can be a costly and time-consuming process. However, installing a free-standing CarPlay screen is a much more affordable option. You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of CarPlay.
Improved Safety and Convenience
CarPlay aftermarket systems offer several safety features such as hands-free calling, Siri voice control, and real-time GPS navigation. All these features are designed to help you stay focused on the road, reducing the risk of accidents caused by distracted driving.
Additionally, CarPlay screens offer convenience features like easy access to your phone's contacts, music library, and messaging apps. You can even use popular apps like Spotify, Pandora, and Audible while driving.
CarPlay vs. Android Auto
While Android Auto is a great alternative to CarPlay, CarPlay offers more app compatibility, a more intuitive interface, and a better overall experience. CarPlay is also more widely supported across car manufacturers.
Advantages of Using Your Existing Car's Head Unit
While installing a free-standing CarPlay screen may offer numerous benefits, there are still advantages to utilizing your existing car's head unit. Some of these advantages include:
- Cost-effectiveness: Replacing your car's head unit with an expensive one can cost you a lot of money. Depending on the make and model of your car, a new head unit can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. If you're on a budget, utilizing your existing head unit and adding a free-standing CarPlay screen can be a cost-effective option.
- Familiarity: If you're used to your existing head unit's interface and functionalities, you might find it easier to continue using it instead of switching to a new one. Since you'll be familiar with the layout, you can easily navigate through your car's functions and use the free-standing CarPlay screen as a complement.
- Preserving the car's interior: Replacing the car's head unit can alter the car's interior, and it might not be suitable for everyone. Some car enthusiasts prefer to preserve the car's originality, which includes keeping the car's original head unit intact. Installing a free-standing CarPlay screen allows you to enjoy the benefits of CarPlay without changing your car's head unit.
- Compatibility: Some car models have integrated head units that are compatible with CarPlay. If your car's head unit is compatible with CarPlay, you can use the free-standing CarPlay screen as an extension to display CarPlay functions while still using the head unit's existing features.
- Easy installation: Using your existing head unit means that you won't need to go through the hassle of installing a new head unit. Installing a free-standing CarPlay screen is relatively easy, and you can do it yourself or get a professional to help you.
Installing a Free-Standing CarPlay Screen vs Replacing the Head Unit - Which is Better?
When it comes to upgrading your car's infotainment system to include Apple CarPlay, you have two options: replace your existing head unit with a new CarPlay-enabled head unit, or install a free-standing CarPlay screen, like the RetroScreen. While both options will provide you with access to CarPlay, there are some key differences between the two that make the free-standing screen a smarter choice for most drivers.
First and foremost, cost is a major consideration. Replacing your head unit can be a very expensive proposition, especially if your car is a newer model with a complicated system that requires professional installation. Depending on your car's make and model, you could be looking at anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more for a new head unit, not including installation costs. On the other hand, a free-standing CarPlay screen such as the RetroScreen is only $200 and can be installed easily in just a few minutes without any professional help.
Beyond cost, there are several benefits to choosing a free-standing CarPlay screen over a new head unit. For one, you won't have to deal with the hassle of removing your existing head unit and finding a replacement that's compatible with your car's wiring and other systems. Instead, you can simply plug the free-standing screen into your car's USB port and start using CarPlay right away. Additionally, because the screen is separate from your car's existing infotainment system, you can easily remove it if you need to sell your car or switch to a different vehicle.
Another advantage of a free-standing CarPlay screen is that it's much easier to upgrade in the future. If Apple releases a new version of CarPlay with new features, you can simply update your iPhone and the screen will automatically reflect those changes. With a new head unit, on the other hand, you may have to replace the entire unit to take advantage of new CarPlay features.
Of course, there are some advantages to using your car's existing head unit, such as the ability to control all of your car's infotainment functions from a single interface. However, for most drivers, the benefits of a free-standing CarPlay screen outweigh the drawbacks of not having everything integrated into one unit.
If you'd like to learn more about the RetroScreen and purchase yours with 2-day shipping from Australia to your doorstep, click here.