Carlinkit 4.0 Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto Adapter Review: One of the Best 2-in-1 Wireless Adapters Under ₹8,000 [Exclusive Promo Code]

Nowadays, many cars come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, but not all of them offer wireless connectivity. Carlinkit is one of the popular manufacturers of 2-in-1 adapters that offer wireless Android Auto and CarPlay functionality at an affordable price point. The Carlinkit 4.0 adapter allows you to wirelessly use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in your car without a physical cable connection.

The adapter connects to your car’s existing USB port and lets you wirelessly connect your smartphone to your car’s infotainment system. This means you can directly access your phone’s compatible apps, music, and other features on your car’s dashboard. The Carlinkit 4.0 supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it is compatible with a wide range of car models across the globe. It also features fast, stable wireless connectivity, a compact, elegant scratch-proof design, and easy installation. I have been using this device for the past two weeks, and here is my detailed review.

Carlinkit 4.0 Specifications

Operating System	Linux
CPU	Amtel AT91SAM9260
Wi-Fi Module	Realtek 8822BS or Broadcom 4354S
MFI	MFI 3959 or MFI 3989
Car Compatibility	Cars with Wired Android Auto Support Cars with Wired Apple CarPlay Support
iPhone Compatibility	iPhone 6 or Later iOS 10 or Later
Android Compatibility	Android 9.0 or Later
Connectivity	802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz Bluetooth 5.0
USB Port	USB Type-C for Car USB-A for Firmware Update
Power Input	5V/1A (USB)
Power Consumption	0.75W
Software	Automatic Connection OTA Updates
Operating Temperature	0˚C – 60˚C / 32˚F – 140˚F
Dimensions	80 x 46 x 13 mm
Weight	33g
Material	Carbon Fiber
Model Number	CPC200-CP2A
Warranty	1-Year

Note: Carlinkit 4.0 support cars that support wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If your vehicle doesn’t support Wired Apple Carplay or Wired Android Auto, this device will not work. Carlinkit 4.0 supports Android phones with Android 9 or later and Apple iPhone 6 or later with iOS 10 or later.

In the Box

• Carlinkit 4.0 Adapter
• USB Type-C to A Cable
• USB Type-C to C Cable
• User Manual

Carlinkit 4.0 Design

The Carlinkit 4.0 adapter is made from lightweight and durable Carbon Fiber, which is stylish and environmentally friendly. Its eye-catching blue color and excellent finish make it a perfect accessory for any car. Moreover, the device is fingerprint-resistant and scratch-resistant. You’ll find the Carlinkit branding on the front and an LED indicator placed just below it. You’ll find the device’s serial number and regulatory markings on the rear.

The device has two USB ports – USB-A on the top and USB-C on the bottom. The USB-A port can only be used to upgrade the device’s firmware using a PC or Laptop. The USB-C port connects your car. You’ll not find any buttons on the device. If your car has a USB-C port, use the supplied USB-C to USB-C cable. If your car has a USB-A port, use the supplied USB-C to USB-A cable.

Carlinkit 4.0 Setup

Before we begin the setup, there’s one more important aspect to consider: the USB cable. It’s crucial to use the cable that comes bundled with the device or invest in high-quality cables from trusted original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Google recommends using a cable under 3 feet (1 meter) in length. It’s essential to avoid using USB hubs or cable extensions.

Alternatively, you can also try using the USB cable that originally came with your phone. The bundled cables are typically 30cm long, providing ample length to keep the device conveniently positioned near the USB port or infotainment system. Now that we have the cable aspect covered let’s proceed with the setup process.

Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay apps are built into the operating system. CarPlay updates are automatic and get updated automatically whenever there is an Apple system update. Google pushes frequent updates to Android Auto via Play Store, and you need to update it manually. If you are using Android Auto, make sure the app is updated to the latest version. Check this link to update the app via Google Play Store.

You don’t have to worry about enabling additional options in Android Auto Settings because the Android Auto app detects whether your car supports Wired or Wireless Android Auto. Update the Android Auto app, and you’re all set to start using it without any further configurations required.

To begin, connect the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter to the USB port in your car that supports Android Auto/CarPlay. If your car has multiple USB ports, ensure that you connect the adapter to the specific USB port that is enabled for Android Auto or CarPlay functionality. In the below image, note that the USB port on the left is designated for Android Auto / Apple CarPlay, while the USB port on the right is intended for charging purposes. Follow the below steps to pair the adapter with your car.

• Once you connect the device to the USB port, the LED light on the front starts blinking Red, and at the same time, the Bluetooth name is displayed on the car screen, making it easy to identify and connect to the appropriate device.
• Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your phone.

Note: The boot screen will also let you change some of the device settings. Tap the Setup icon on the bottom right to access the device settings. The settings menu lets you Clear the pair list, change language, save the log, and enable/disable Auto connect. This step is optional.

• Now, go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings, and search for the Bluetooth name displayed on the car’s infotainment system. In my car it is MG-5G88. The name displayed on your car may be different.
• Allow access to your contacts and call history from the pop-up and tap on Pair.

After tapping on the Pair option, the adapter promptly establishes a wireless link between your phone and the infotainment system. With that, the setup is finished, and you can now utilize Android Auto / Apple CarPlay wirelessly in your vehicle. Ensure you do not disconnect the adapter from your phone’s Wi-Fi or disable your phone’s Wi-Fi. Doing so may break the connection, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay stops working.

Carlinkit 4.0 Settings

Carlinkit 4.0 doesn’t come with a dedicated app, and you need to access the device settings using an IP address. To access Settings:

• Connect the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter to the USB port and wait a few seconds.
• Turn off Bluetooth on your phone.
• Go to Wi-Fi Settings and select the Adapter Wi-Fi network. Enter the password as “12345678“.
• Now open any web browser on your phone, like Google Chrome and enter 192.168.50.2.
• You’ll be redirected to adapter settings.

• Home: You can check the Wi-Fi rate, CPU temperature, CPU rate, and current Memory usage. You’ll also find the adapter’s Bluetooth name, Wi-Fi name, Software version, Hardware version, and a couple of other device parameters.
• Device: You’ll get a list of devices connected to the Adapter.
• Help: This section helps you submit a bug report, Give feedback, Update the software, and also roll back to the last stable version if you experience any issues after updating the device to the latest software.
• Settings: This section allows you to fine-tune the adapter further. This page includes the following options.

• Sync Mode: Switching to Sync Mode is advised if your car fails to recognize the adapter. After activating the sync mode, disconnect the adapter from the car’s USB port and replug it.
• Background: Turn this On if your infotainment system shows a Black screen after a successful connection.
• Auto Connect: If you enable this, the adapter automatically connects to the previously paired device whenever you start the car, and the phone is inside the range with Bluetooth ON. By default is set to On.
• Category: Set the audio quality to CD or DVD. By default, it is set to DVD. Switch it if you observe lag and noise when playing music or other media. After switching, disconnect the adapter from the car’s USB port and replug it.

• Call Quality: Set the call quality to Normal, Clear, and HD.
• Knob Mode: Turn On/Off the Knob mode.
• Video Resolution: Set the adapter resolution to Auto, 800×480, 1280×720, 1920×1080, or Custom resolution.
• Media Delay: Modify the delay time for media sound. By default, the delay is set at 1000 milliseconds, and you can adjust it within the range of 300 to 2000 milliseconds. Increasing the number reduces the chances of lag while decreasing it enhances the synchronization between music and image. Please note that this setting depends on the car’s network, so adjust it according to your specific situation. It is not recommended to make adjustments unless there are abnormal conditions.
• Frame: Set the frame rate manually.
• Video Bit Rate: Set the video bit rate manually.
• Start Delay: Set the time delay for establishing communication with the car after powering on the Adapter.
• DPI: Set the DPI manually.
• GPS: Turn On or Off GPS.
• Device Language: Change UI language.

• Wi-Fi Band: Change the WiFi band and frequency.
• Car Logo: Update the car logo if missing
• Modify WI-Fi Name: Change the device’s Wi-Fi name if needed.
• Modify Device Name: Change the device name.
• Reset: Reset the device to factory settings.

How to Update Carlinkit 4.0 Firmware?

• Connect the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter to your car’s USB port and wait till the LED light turns green.
• Turn off Bluetooth on your phone.
• Go to Wi-Fi Settings and select the adapter’s Wi-Fi network [MG-5G88] and input the password as 12345678.
• Now open any web browser like Google Chrome and enter the IP address 192.168.50.2.
• Click on Help and select Check Updates.
• Turn off your phone Wi-Fi and select Confirm from the pop-up. Make sure the Mobile Data is On.
• If any new version is available, it will be downloaded and installed automatically. It will take a few minutes to complete the update process. Once the update is completed, reconnect the adapter from your car’s USB port.

How to Factory Reset Carlinkit 4.0 Adapter?

• Connect the adapter to your car’s USB port and wait till the LED light turns green.
• Turn off Bluetooth on your phone.
• Go to Wi-Fi Settings and select the adapter’s Wi-Fi network [MG-5G88] and enter the password as 12345678.
• Now open any web browser like Google Chrome and enter the IP address 192.168.50.2.
• Click on Settings, scroll down, and select Reset.
• Select Confirm from the pop-up.
• Once the reset is completed, reconnect the adapter from your car’s USB port.

Review

The Carlinkit 4.0 Adapter is a versatile 2-in-1 adapter that enables you to wirelessly connect both your Android and iPhone to your car’s infotainment system. The adapter is compact, has excellent build quality, and is made up of scratch-resistant material. I have been using the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter in my MG Astor for over two weeks and am thoroughly satisfied with its performance. It operates seamlessly, requiring no manual intervention.

Using the touchscreen to navigate the interface on wireless connections feels as seamless as using a wired connection. I have tested the adapter with Google Pixel 7A, OnePlus Nord, OnePus Nord 2T, and iPhone 14 Pro, and I haven’t encountered any latency or touch response problems whatsoever. As soon as I start my car, within 20 seconds, the music starts playing from my favorite music app, Google Maps seamlessly appears on my screen, ready for navigation without any need to touch the screen or retrieve my phone from my pocket to connect it.

The audio quality is good, and the voice calls are fast and clear as well. I’ve tested multiple apps like Google Maps, Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and JioSaavn and have not experienced any issues. I was also able to interact with Google Assistant and Siri without encountering any difficulties. The steering wheel controls also work fine, and I could change the tracks and increase/decrease the volume without any issues.

Despite the absence of a dedicated app, accessing the device settings on the adapter is very easy. Moreover, the company has also provided multiple options to fine-tune the device settings, allowing users to address any potential compatibility concerns with specific infotainment systems. The major downside I noticed pertains to seamless switching. When using both an Android and an iPhone, it is not possible to seamlessly switch between the two devices.

Instead, you must disconnect the Android device before connecting the iPhone to the adapter. Also, the adapter has to be replugged to bring up the boot menu. During my testing, I couldn’t use the dial pad on the screen as it didn’t respond to any inputs. It appears to be a bug that is expected to be fixed in future updates. It is crucial to note that utilizing Android Auto wirelessly can significantly drain your device’s battery life faster than anticipated. So for long drives, wired connectivity is recommended.

The Carlinkit 4.0 adapter delivers exactly what it promises and is undoubtedly a compelling option to consider. If you are seeking a device that supports both Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Carlinkit 4.0 stands out as one of the top choices under $100 / INR 8,000.

Carlinkit 4.0 Price, Availability, and Exclusive Promo Code

Carlinkit 4.0 comes only in Blue and will be available via the company’s official website at USD 98.99 (Approx. INR 8,000). Carlinkitcarplay is offering an exclusive 18% flat discount to GizArena readers. Enter the Promo code GIZ on the checkout page to avail the discount. This promo code can be used to buy any products on carlinkitcarplay.com. You can also use the special link below that will automatically add the promo code during checkout. To order the product:

• Go to this special link – carlinkitcarplay.com/discount/Giz
• Select Carlinkit 4.0 and click on Add to Cart. The promo code will be added automatically on the checkout page, and the price will reduce to USD 81.17 (Approx. INR 6,600).
• Provide the necessary shipping details and complete the payment.

Carlinkit 4.0 will also be available through popular eCommerce websites like Amazon.com, Walmart, etc. The device comes with a 1-year warranty. Check out this link for more information about the shipping and delivery policy. Carlinkit even offers a 60-day return policy in case you don’t like the product. Check out this link for more information on the returns and refunds policy.

Frequently Asked Questions on Carlinkit 4.0 (FAQ)

Does Carlinkit 4.0 Compatible with Steering / Knob Controls?

Yes, just like most wireless adapters, the Carlinkit 4.0 is fully compatible with steering/knob controls. In general, Carlinkit 4.0 should be compatible with steering controls if your car’s infotainment system supports steering control inputs. This functionality may vary depending on your car’s make and model; some cars may require additional setup and configuration. For more information, get in touch with your car dealer or Carlinkit.

How Do I Know if My Phone Is Compatible with Android Auto or Apple Carplay?

The only requirement is the operating system version of the phone. It requires Android 9 or later or iPhone 6 or later with iOS 10 or later. Both devices (Android and iPhone) come preloaded with respective applications, so there is no need to download them from Play Store / AppStore. Just ensure you have updated the app to the latest version from the Play Store / AppStore. To access Android Auto settings on your phone, go to phone Settings -> Apps. Similarly, on the iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay.

How Carlinkit 4.0 Gets the Power?

The Carlinkit 4.0 device gets power through a USB port. Once you connect the device to the USB port through the USB cable, it turns on automatically. You can also see the LED indicator on the front starts glowing.

How Do I Know if My Car is Carlinkit 4.0 Compatible?

• First, check your car has a built-in Apple CarPlay or Android Auto system. The Carlinkit 4.0 device is designed to work with cars that have a built-in Apple CarPlay or Android Auto system.
• Check the make and model of your car. Carlinkit 4.0 is compatible with most car models that have a built-in Apple CarPlay or Android Auto system. However, some older car models may not be compatible with the Carlinkit 4.0 device.
• Check the version of your phone’s operating system. Carlinkit 4.0 requires an iPhone 6 and above running iOS 10 or above and Android 9 or newer for Android phones. Some features may require Android 11 or later.
• Your car must have a female USB-A port.
• If you are still unsure about the compatibility of your vehicle, contact Carlinkit to avoid any issues.

Does Carlinkit 4.0 Support Google Maps Zoom In and Out Using Fingers?

Yes, the Carlinkit 4.0 device does support zoom-in and out functionality for Google Maps using fingers. When using Google Maps on the Carlinkit 4.0 device, you can use the same pinch-to-zoom gesture that you would use on your phone or tablet to zoom in and out of the map. The Carlinkit 4.0 device is designed to be compatible with the same touch gestures that you would use on your phone, so you should be able to use all the familiar gestures, including pinch-to-zoom, to navigate and interact with Google Maps on the device.

Do I Need to Re-pair the Carlinkit 4.0 Adapter Each Time it is Used?

No, you do not need to re-pair the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter each time it is used. Once you have paired the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter with your car’s infotainment system, it should automatically connect each time you get in the car and turn on the ignition. It’s important to note that some car models may require you to manually select the Carlinkit 4.0 device from the infotainment system’s Bluetooth settings each time you want to use it. In this case, you will need to manually connect the device each time you get in the car.

Can I Connect Multiple Phones to the Carlinkit 4.0 Adapter?

The Carlinkit 4.0 adapter is designed to connect to only one phone at a time. This means that you cannot connect multiple phones to the adapter simultaneously. However, you can pair multiple phones with the adapter, and switch between them as needed. When you want to switch to a different phone, you can disconnect the currently connected phone from the adapter, and then connect the new phone to the adapter.

The Carlinkit 4.0 adapter should automatically recognize the new phone, and connect to it without any further configuration or setup. To disconnect a phone from the Carlinkit 4.0 adapter, you can either turn off Bluetooth on the phone or unpair the phone from the adapter using the Bluetooth settings on the phone. To connect a new phone to the adapter, turn on Bluetooth on the new phone and follow the instructions to pair the phone with the adapter.

I Don’t Have Wi-Fi in My Car. Does Carlinkit 4.0 Work Without Wi-Fi?

The Carlinkit 4.0 adapter does not require your car’s Wi-Fi to function. It comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and works by connecting to your phone’s Wi-Fi through a Hotspot. The entire process is Automatic, and the only thing you have to do manually is to connect to adapters Bluetooth.

What are the Interface Languages Supported by Carlinkit 4.0?

Carlinkit 4.0 interface supports 13 languages, including Portuguese, French, German, Hebrew, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and English.

How to Change the Language of Carlinkit 4.0?

While setting up the device for the first time, on the boot screen, you need to tap on the Settings icon on the bottom right. Tap on the Language option and select the language from the list.

Note: This review is done on the factory-fitted infotainment system of the MG Astor 2023. It’s important to note that performance may vary when used with other infotainment systems. The adapter’s performance depends on the head unit/infotainment system, the USB cable quality, and your phone. The Carlinkit 4.0 is not suitable for aftermarket Android car stereos.

That’s it. Thanks for reading the review. Do let us know in the comments if you have any issues. We’ll reply as soon as we can. Follow GizArena on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.