Typically, before I buy something, particularly electronics, I research it for days, weeks, even months. For this product, it was about a month. I could not find one that seemed to pass muster. They were either too large, connected via a cord or adapter allowing the device to just dangle, didn't connect to the phone quickly enough, didn't stay connected or have a consistent connection, didn't last very long, were too expensive for what you're getting, or other negative feedback. I have my own rating system based on Amazon's star ratings that I typically follow before I decide to buy a product, and almost all of these devices didn't pass it or if they did were too expensive. When all the products I review don't pass my scoring system, sometimes I have to settle for what is available, or look elsewhere (not on Amazon). Even when I buy products elsewhere, I go to Amazon and check the reviews. On top of all this, I use "FAKESPOT" to review or score the reviews (it's a BHO or app that reviews or scores the reviews based on fake, erroneous, or suspicious reviews).
I drive a 1999 Cadillac Deville with an aftermarket double-DIN Pioneer touchscreen stereo with DVD, but it only does Apple CarPlay and not Android Auto. The main phone I use is a Samsung Galaxy Android smartphone, but I do also have an Apple iPhone as a backup. So, I can use this device with my iPhone.
Then I saw this device.
Size. First thing, the size was enticing: it is the size of a regular-sized thumb drive (about the size of your thumb). It connects the same way a thumb drive would connect: the USB portion plugs directly into the USB port... no wires or adapters needed (at least in my case). The others I researched were much larger, like the size of a pack of cigarettes (I don't smoke, so that my not be exact) or about half the size of a cell phone but maybe a bit thicker. Most also required a wire to connect the device, so the device itself would be just dangling, get in the way, and possibly fall off due the weight or forces caused by driving a car. Not this one: it plugs in to the port in the car and is out of the way... it's not going to move or dangle in any way or fashion.
It did come with two small cables with different connectors to use as adapters in case your car doesn't have the same USB adapter.
Setup--initial connection. Very easy. Just turn on the Bluetooth on your phone, find the device, and pair it. So far it has stayed paired, as of the writing of this review... no disconnections. As for my Pioneer stereo CarPlay app, it recognized right away; I can't say the same for other cars or car stereos.
Connection speed. My stereo takes a few seconds to start up after I start the car. It goes through a POST process, a splash screen display, a safety warning ("don't operate the features on this radio while driving" sort of thing, which waits for me to press "OK" or eventually goes away), and then the radio comes on. By the time my radio starts up, this device is already connected. So basically, there is no waiting. I start the car and it connects almost immediately (within 5-10 seconds)--by the time I put on my seatbelt and ready to drive, it's connected to my iPhone. I will mention, though, that the phone cannot be in locked screen mode--you need to unlock your phone for the device to make the connection (this may be a feature of my stereo, Apple CarPlay, or the device--I'm not sure which); I assume this is some sort of security feature--a minor annoyance, but not a big deal.
Lagging. I read in a lot of the review of other products that their device lags, as in they don't connect right away, or while connected it lose their connection or lag and then reconnect. Thus far, this device has zero lag issues. I have not seen it lag at all. It simply connects and stays connected until I turn off the car.
Quality of the build. It's seems well-constructed, similar to a thumb drive. It fits quite snuggly in the USB port--no wiggle or loose feeling. As a test, I pulled it out. When I did, the shell or cover of the device separated from body. It was easily remedied by simply putting it back and snapping it back together. I am not sure if glue would be in order to fix this, as you may want to open the device in the future to troubleshoot any issues. As for me, I plan on always leaving the device plugged in, so it won't be an issue again. There does not seem to be any overheating issues.
Price. The price seemed slightly more than it should, but not too far off from the rest of the devices being sold--some are less expensive, some are more expensive. I think I was able to use a coupon or something to bring the price down slightly (like 10%). But, for the size and near-instant connectivity, it seems worth it.
Longevity. I have only had this for a week, so that is yet to be told. So far, so good.
If you are a minimalist, this is the one item you'll want. If you don't want a device that requires an additional adapter to plug into your USB port in your car, then this one stands out from the rest. If you want a device that works almost immediately with no wait time, then don't hesitate to get this one. For me, this item fits the bill.
intelbras Wireless CarPlay Adapter 2024 slimmest, Newest Fastest and Smallest for CarPlay Adapter, for iOS, Factory Wired Car
5
| 43 ratingsPrice: 54.98
Last update: 09-30-2024
About this item
Compatible Devices | iOS, Factory Wired CarPlay Cars |
Specific Uses For Product | CarPlay Cars |
Connector Type | Lightning |
Color | Black |
Item dimensions L x W x H | 2.28 x 1 x 0.39 inches |
Product information
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intelbras Wireless CarPlay Adapter 2024 slimmest, Newest Fastest and Smallest for CarPlay Adapter, for iOS, Factory Wired CarPlay Cars, USB-A and USB-C Type C Cables Included
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