The CPC200-2air Wireless Adapter allows you to connect your existing wired Apple CarPlay system or wired Android Auto infotainment system wirelessly. PCtipp took a closer look at him.
To this day, some manufacturers still ship cars that work with wired CarPlay — nine years after introducing Wireless CarPlay with iOS 9. After all, there are many adapters vying for the attention of drivers who want to ditch the cable. One of the best current models carlinkit 5 With the addition of (2air), picture 1.
Important: Carlinkit does not offer its own CarPlay functionality. It simply creates a wireless bridge to the system in the car.
Check the firmware
Image 2: The smart switch comes with its own Wi-Fi network including a web server
Source: PCtipp.ch
The first time you use the adapter, a firmware update may be available. Connect the Carlinkit box to a power source via the USB-C port. After about a minute it will call up setup Wireless internet service On iPhone. Here you will find Wi-Fi AutoKit_A8Picture 2. Connect to this network. In Safari, call the address 192.168.50.2 Run, enter the password 12345678 And click below Choose updateTo check the latest firmware. When the update is finished, the adapter is ready.
Installation in the car
Connect the Carlinkit adapter via the USB-C port using one of the short cables provided. Use the USB port in the car to which you will also connect the iPhone using a cable. Most vehicles today have multiple USB ports, but often only one is eligible for data exchange.
Open Bluetooth settings on iPhone. Then choose the device Autokit_D68. That's it.
From now on, your iPhone should appear once you turn on CarPlay.
A little cumin
The big question is latency – but it's barely noticeable. In our test car, it took about 10 seconds via USB for CarPlay to appear on the screen. With the Carlinkit adapter it is noticeably longer at 35 seconds. But scrolling and response when swiping are fast enough: it feels like it would with a cable connection.
And Android?
The Carlinkit adapter not only works with CarPlay, but also with Android Auto. This is attractive when a household is not only equipped with iPhones. The principle is still the same. There's nothing to complain about here either, because Carlinkit natively supports both protocols and thus no switching between systems occurs, as is often the case with other converters.
Conclusion
A clean solution for everyone who has enough USB cables and wants to update their car. The setup is uncomplicated and the result is convincing.
