And why is it that all the ones on AliExpress seem to offer some weirdo mapping application? Why wouldn't you just run Google Maps (assuming you have a 3G/4G option)?

Cheers

JohnO

If it has Android Auto you wouldn't use any inbuilt mapping Apps surely? Wouldn't you just use Google maps from your phone mirrored to the head unit through Android Auto.

Are you possibly confusing head units with built in Android Auto support with those head units that run some sort of Android operating system?

Oh yeah, duh!

But regarding your second point, are they not always running Android?

Found the various Joying units on AE.

So far have not found much in the way of Android compatible parking sensors other than the FenSens one which is not quite what I wanted - uses a number plate frame sensor whereas what I want is something to replace the set of bumper sensors.

You can get android compatible tyre pressure sensor kits... I think there's a market for android parking sensors!

Being android you can generally install google maps on the head unit and use it. Without an active internet connection though, you have to download offline maps and keep them updated. I've found myself using the igo map application as it is nice to be able to have the gps speed displayed always when you are using it. It also alerts speed cameras, warning signs etc.

For actual navigation though, android auto with google maps is what I use to get the live traffic shown.

For ultrasonic parking sensors, the closest I've seen is a unit that overlays the distance over a backup camera feed to display on the screen. About $20USD including colour coded sensors. 

eg

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-4-3-Inch-Digital-LCD-TFT-Screen-Mirror-Monitor-Display-With-Car-Reaview-Parking-Reversing/32279065574.html

dolsen:

 

Being android you can generally install google maps on the head unit and use it. Without an active internet connection though, you have to download offline maps and keep them updated. I've found myself using the igo map application as it is nice to be able to have the gps speed displayed always when you are using it. It also alerts speed cameras, warning signs etc.

 

For actual navigation though, android auto with google maps is what I use to get the live traffic shown.

 

I think I'll just get the 4G dongle and a pre-pay sim the monthly data on a $16 plan should be tons pls get all the benefits of google's searchability, street view etc.

 

For ultrasonic parking sensors, the closest I've seen is a unit that overlays the distance over a backup camera feed to display on the screen. About $20USD including colour coded sensors. 

 

eg

 

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-4-3-Inch-Digital-LCD-TFT-Screen-Mirror-Monitor-Display-With-Car-Reaview-Parking-Reversing/32279065574.html

 

That's pretty cool - thanks.