Technology is advancing by leaps and bounds, and what is an essential gadget today can end up forgotten in a drawer in a few years. If you have a Android tablet or an old mobile phoneWhy not give it a second life and turn it into a sophisticated multimedia screen for your car? With the right apps, you can transform this device into your vehicle's control center, accessing navigation, music, calls, and more, just as if you had a built-in Android Auto system—but without having to change cars or spend a fortune on external devices.
In this article we show you How to turn an old Android tablet or phone into the perfect display for your carUsing tools like Car Launcher Pro, Headunit Reloaded, and AutoZen, we'll analyze each app, their differences, requirements, installation methods, legal aspects to consider, and recommendations for making the most of your old tablet or phone as a car infotainment center.
Why use an old tablet or mobile phone as a car screen?
Many cars, especially older or basic versions, They do not have an integrated Android Auto system. Although there are external displays and smart radios compatible, they usually involve a significant expense. The most economical and practical alternative is to reuse those Android devices that you no longer use but that work correctly. In addition, the Android ecosystem stands out for its versatilityAllowing personalize the experience in the car according to your needs: GPS navigation, multimedia control, call management, access to your favorite apps, and, of course, improved safety thanks to interfaces adapted for driving. To learn more about compatibility and options, we recommend consulting the comparison between Android Auto and Samsung Auto.
The best apps to turn your tablet or mobile phone into a car screen
The Android market offers a multitude of apps designed specifically to add infotainment functionality to your old device. The most popular, due to their user experience, ease of use, and professional results, are: autozen, Headunit Reloaded, car launcher y several alternative launchers that you can try according to your preferences.
AutoZen: Simple and secure Android Auto experience
autozen has earned a place among the favorites of those looking for an Android Auto experience on a mobile phone or tablet. Its proposal focuses on replicate the interface and main functionalities of the official system: GPS navigation, large buttons, fully integrated media controls (Spotify, podcasts, local music), easy and secure access to Waze or Google Maps, and all designed with security at the forefront. To expand your options, you can also visit How to find out where you parked with Android Auto.
The app stands out for its minimalist interface and clean, which reduces distractions while driving. In addition, allows you to manage key functions with voice commands, so you'll barely have to touch the screen once you're on the move. With over 950.000 downloads on Google Play and a 4,3-star rating, AutoZen is a free solution—with a paid option for advanced features—that more than covers the basic needs of any driver looking to breathe new life into their old phone or tablet. For compatible devices, check out What is Android Device Manager?.
To use AutoZen, your device needs to have at least Android 7.0, a minimum of 2 GB of RAM and functional GPSThese requirements are very affordable, and most relatively recent tablets or phones you may have lying around the house will meet them without a problem.
Headunit Reloaded: Bring the original Android Auto to any screen
If you're looking for an option that almost identically mimics the original Android Auto experience, Headunit Reloaded This is the app you need. This app, available on Google Play for less than 5 euros, turns your Android tablet or mobile phone into a receiving screen for Android Auto, allowing you to project the interface and control the system using your phone or even another device. Its operation is the closest to the integrated system in new cars. For details on compatible operating systems and operation, visit What you can do with your old tablet.
Headunit Reloaded offers several ways of connection: via USB (you will need an OTG cable for tablets), via WiFi (sharing the mobile hotspot) o in Self mode (running Android Auto and the app on the same device). Setting it up requires a small technical process, such as activating the developer settings in Android Auto, start the main server, and follow the connection steps provided by the app. Once this is done, the tablet will function as a multimedia display, showing the Android Auto interface with the same look, feel, and functionality you'd find in a modern car.
This application is especially recommended for those who want to take full advantage of the tablet's capabilities and are looking for the broadest possible compatibility with apps, widgets, and advanced featuresBefore purchasing the full version, you can try the free demo to check compatibility.
Car Launcher Pro and other alternative launchers
If you prefer a more flexible solution or simply want to customize your device's interface to your liking, you can opt for alternative launchers specific for cars. Among the most notable are car launcher, CarWebGuru Car Launcher, RELIGION Car Launcher o Car Dashdroid, each with their own advantages and styles.
For instance, Car Launcher (available in free and paid versions) Turn any Android device into a smart car display, showing information such as speed (GPS-based), distance traveled, time, weather, customizable shortcuts, and informative widgets. The interface is fully configurable, with theme switching options, widget integration, media control, support for system widgets, and much more. The Pro version adds even more features, such as advanced interface editing, support for more widgets, and deep experience customization options, allowing your old device to perfectly match your driving style and your car's dashboard. For more details, see mobile phone holders in the car.
Other similar options, such as CarWebGuru or AGAMA, focus on visuals and customization, offering consoles that clearly and securely display speed, built-in music players, shortcuts, the clock, contacts, and essential functions. Many of these apps have free versions that are sufficient for most users, although if you want to unlock their full potential, you'll have to pay a small fee.
If you prefer a minimalist approach, Niagara Launcher It is also recommended thanks to its simplicity and ease of launching important applications and little else, although you will not have additional information like in specialized launchers.
Step by step: How to set up your tablet or mobile phone as a car screen
The process for turning your old Android device into your car's multimedia screen varies depending on the app you choose, but it shares some common steps. We'll explain the two main methods: installing a launcher-type app (AutoZen, Car Launcher, AGAMA, etc.) and projecting the real Android Auto with Headunit Reloaded.
1. With AutoZen or alternative Launchers
- Check that your tablet or mobile phone is in good condition and, if possible, with access to WiFi or mobile data.
- Download the chosen app from the Google Play Store.
- Grant the necessary permissions (GPS, access to notifications, etc.) to be able to display relevant information.
- Select or customize the interface to your liking, placing shortcuts to the apps you use most in the car: navigation, music, calls, WhatsApp, etc.
- Place the device in an approved and secure holder on the dashboard, ensuring that it does not obstruct the view or operation of the airbags.
- Configure security settings and, if possible, use voice commands to minimize manual interaction while driving.
2. Using Headunit Reloaded for real Android Auto
- Make sure both the tablet (which will be the display) and the phone meet Android requirements and have the respective apps (Android Auto and Headunit Reloaded) installed.
- Activate developer settings in Android Auto on your phone: Go to Android Auto settings, tap "Version" several times to unlock the developer menu. Once you've done that, access the advanced menu and select "Start head unit server."
- Turn on the WiFi hotspot on your mobile and connect the tablet to that network.
- Open Headunit Reloaded on your tablet and select WiFi mode.The app will detect Android Auto and prompt you to configure the necessary settings.
- Follow the setup steps And within seconds, the tablet will display the Android Auto interface on a large screen with full touch control.
- Optionally, if you prefer USB connection, connect both devices with an OTG cable and follow the on-screen prompts.
Safety tips and legal aspects to consider
Just as important as having the best app and the most efficient configuration is ensuring that Using your tablet or mobile phone in the car complies with the law and is safe.Traffic regulations stipulate that manipulating electronic devices while driving is prohibited, and can result in fines of up to €200 and the loss of points from your driver's license.
This means you can use your old device as a GPS or multimedia display. as long as it is on an approved medium and do not manipulate it while it is moving. Manipulation must be done before starting the vehicle or using voice control. For a better support option, see good mobile phone holders in the carAlso, make sure the support doesn't obstruct your view of the road or the operation of the airbags. Always check the DGT regulations to avoid possible fines.
Advantages and practical considerations
Using an old mobile phone or tablet as a multimedia center for your car has many advantages: save money Regarding external displays, you personalize the experience, you access maps, music, calls and messages in a convenient and simple interface. Plus, you can adapt the settings and apps to your car usage, whether it's long trips or everyday driving. To explore more options, check out Android Auto updates and new apps.
It's important to keep in mind that the results won't be exactly the same as those of factory-integrated systems. Some of the most relevant practical considerations include:
- Avoid tablets that are too large that may hinder vision or safe assembly.
- Check that the tablet is securely fastened before starting any journey.
- Turn off unnecessary notifications to avoid distractions.
- Make sure you have the maximum possible autonomy, either with a charger in the car or external batteries.
- Try different applications and choose the one that best suits your needs and tastes.
What alternative apps are there and which one should you choose?
Beyond AutoZen, Headunit Reloaded, or Car Launcher, there are other apps that may interest you depending on the level of customization and experience you're looking for:
- CarWebGuru Car Launcher: Customizable console with speed, music playback, and shortcuts, ideal for those who want a visual and practical solution.
- AGAMA Car Launcher: It stands out for its ease of use and the possibility of trying it for 30 days free, integrating navigation and widgets with relevant information.
- Car Dashdroid: veteran option with a minimalist interface and customizable shortcuts.
Ultimately, the choice will depend on whether you're looking for something visual and with extras (CarWebGuru, AGAMA), an option very similar to the official Android Auto (Headunit Reloaded), simplicity and minimalism (Niagara), or complete integration to control everything from a single screen (AutoZen, Car Launcher).