W169 - any experiance with aftermarket Android Radio

[darkphoenix3k]

Hi, I recently bought a used W169 A-Class (2004) and would like to replace the radio.
Does anyone have experience with Android radios?

 

[tomka37]

I recently upgraded my Mercedes-Benz W203 ( 2006 model) with this 9-inch Android car radio, and it has completely transformed my driving experience. The inclusion of a rear-view camera input is a game-changer. The waterproof night vision camera with a 170° wide angle offers crystal-clear images both day and night, significantly improving safety when reversing. Bluetooth connectivity is a highlight.

 

[darkphoenix3k]

I recently upgraded my Mercedes-Benz W203 ( 2006 model) with this 9-inch Android car radio, and it has completely transformed my driving experience. The inclusion of a rear-view camera input is a game-changer. The waterproof night vision camera with a 170° wide angle offers crystal-clear images both day and night, significantly improving safety when reversing. Bluetooth connectivity is a highlight.

Can you tell me which model you bought and for how much?

 

[tomka37]

Hi, my is Android 13 CarPlay Car Stereo GPS DAB+ Camera 169e from Ebay. Thanks.

 

[JohnLi]

Get those android model which has at least 4Gb ram to have a smoother transition between applications.
If you are willing to drill some holes in the older more cars, get 360 camera too!
Lastly, get the set with 4G mobile data for those family trips, example youtube, netflix on the move.
Cheers!

 

[vannuys]

I very nearly put an android system in my 2017 GLC, but returned it at the last minute. I was worried it might not integrate with the car's existing UI & sound system as perfectly as promised.

On an older car (without a fancy UI for car settings) it seems like a no-brainer.

The biggest advantage I could think of is getting the maps application built in (assuming the unit has GPS), and/or using android play to get your display on a bigger screen while driving.

Including the mobile data seems excessive though; using your phone as a wifi hotspot ought to work just as well without an extra data plan. But I suppose it offers the convenience of always being available without having to switch your phone into hotspot mode.

 

[Ghost8877]

I bought an Awesafe brand GPS and easily installed (2 hours) the rear-view camera, screen, and microphone. Android Auto and Carplay are integrated

 

[Rade1978]

I was having Android Radio in W204 it was good first half year after that come issues with Bluetooth and some problems with switching between NTG and Android I think it was not fitted well after that I have return my OEM radio Part.

 

[vannuys]

I was having Android Radio in W204 it was good first half year after that come issues with Bluetooth and some problems with switching between NTG and Android I think it was not fitted well after that I have return my OEM radio Part.

That's kind of my worry also. There's so much possibility for glitches between the 2 different sets of software, and you can't expect these low-cost manufacturers to put a budget into fixing their software after the fact.

MB has their reputation on the line, and a software team on staff, so they'll fix problems down the road... but these chinese devices, you don't even know who originally manufactured them so the maker doesn't have to worry about reputation.

I might buy an aftermarket unit from a known brand like Xioami or someone else if they ever developed a reputation.

 

[vannuys]

Can you tell me which model you bought and for how much?

BTW, if you want to see endless options, go to aliexpress.com and search for your car model + android.
May as well buy from aliexpress vs. ebay since you're dealing with a random reseller either way.
If you want support, a few domestic companies will import the same hardware and charge more to resell it on their websites, but that increased cost will give you some tech support.