Giving Your Retired Tablet a Second Life

It is common for older Android tablets to eventually lose their edge, becoming little more than expensive paperweights once they struggle to run modern software. While some repurpose them as basic e-readers or smart home controllers, these tasks often feel underwhelming. However, there is a much more practical use for your aging device: turning it into a dedicated Android Auto head unit.


The Power of Open Headunit

By utilizing an application called Open Headunit, you can essentially trick your smartphone into treating your tablet as a native car infotainment display. This allows you to leverage your phone’s processing power to navigate, manage media, and use Android Auto features on a larger, more convenient screen. This approach serves as a cost-effective alternative for drivers whose vehicles lack factory support for Android Auto, especially as some manufacturers move away from supporting the platform.


Setting Up Your New Dashboard

The configuration process requires a bit of patience. Open Headunit supports various connectivity modes, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. You may need to experiment to determine which method works best with your specific hardware. The app includes a built-in configuration tool designed to guide users through essential settings to ensure everything is synced properly.


In practice, a USB connection often provides the most reliable experience. Once permissions are granted and the tablet is set as the default device for USB connections, your phone should trigger the Android Auto interface automatically. To handle audio, you can route the sound through your car’s stereo via Bluetooth or, for better performance and lower latency, through a wired auxiliary connection using a USB-C hub.


Practical Considerations and Limitations

It is important to keep a few things in mind regarding this setup:

  • Hardware Requirements: While the heavy lifting is done by your smartphone, a tablet that is extremely old or prone to malfunctions may struggle to keep up.
  • Security: Leaving a tablet mounted in your vehicle can make it a target for theft. It is advisable to use a removable mount so you can take the device with you when the car is parked.
  • Mounting: You will need a secure way to affix the tablet to your dashboard, such as specialized car tablet mounts or magnetic solutions.

Ultimately, while this DIY solution is not a seamless replacement for a factory-integrated system, it is significantly more affordable than purchasing and installing a new head unit. As one user noted, «Android Auto is a very luxurious experience on a 14.6-inch, 2K AMOLED display,» making this a compelling workaround for anyone looking to modernize an older vehicle without breaking the bank.