The Motrex Head Unit in my Kia Cerato Forte (2018 Facelift) came only with a wired Android Auto / Apple Car Play. Though it was functioning pretty well over these years, there’s a constant issue with loose cables as we tend to plug in and plug out umpteen number of times. Also, using the built-in USB port means, lower charge rate. Most of the times the battery charge on my phone would turn out to be lesser than when it was plugged in as the power consumption while using Android Auto trumps the charge rate of the USB port. I’d rather use my QC charger to charge the phone while Android Auto is connected wirelessly or enjoy the luxury of Android Auto starting up while my phone’s still in my pocket.
After browsing through various options such as replacing the stock Head Unit with a newer one which supports wireless Android Auto, or solutions such as AAwireless or Carsifi, the choice was made to go with a lower overhead cost.
Both AAWireless and Carsifi were on crowdfunding platform Indiegogo. I couldn’t make up my mind on deciding between the two and hence I ordered them both. AAWireless had a delivery estimate of January 2022 and Carsifi had a delivery estimate of February 2022. However, due to Chinese New Year, both their shipments got delayed. There’s one winner in terms of keeping the backers posted with latest updates, which is AAWireless.
All my queries were answered promptly and their campaign page was updated promptly by Emil Borconi leaving the backers with up to date status. I got my notice of shipment and tracking information on email as well as SMS from the logistics company. Surprisingly, the delivery notification on SMS came in from Janio SG on 14-Feb and the actual delivery happened on 15-Feb.
The packaging was simple with no fancy stuff. Just the wireless adaptor and the USB A (To connect to the car Head Unit) to USB C cable (To connect to the wireless adaptor.
The adaptor is well made in a solid ABS type of plastic casing. The braided cable looks well built and of high quality to ensure that there’s no data connectivity issues between the Head Unit and the adaptor.
Keep your eyes peeled for a follow-up article on Setup and first impressions soon.