Samsung DeX on the car display: AutoPro X brings Galaxy desktop mode to the infotainment system
Dongles that allow an Android smartphone to connect wirelessly to a vehicle's Android Auto system have been around for years. AutoProX goes one step further, allowing Samsung's DeX desktop user interface to be streamed wirelessly to a car's display and the touchscreen to be used with a user interface on which several apps and windows can be used at the same time.
It is very easy to use: the small, white dongle is connected to the car via a USB-C cable and DeX can then be activated on the compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphone and the dongle selected as the wireless display. If the car does not have a touchscreen, the smartphone display can be used for control. The button on the top of the dongle allows all displayed windows to be automatically arranged in such a way that the available space is utilized in the best possible way.
Compared to Android Auto, users should have a much broader selection of apps, as almost any app that runs on the smartphone can also be used on the car display. In conjunction with a Bluetooth keyboard and a wireless trackpad, the infotainment display can also be converted into a simple laptop replacement; with a Bluetooth gamepad and apps such as Xbox Game Pass, you can even play current titles in the car. The dongle is compatible with numerous cars from 2016 onwards, including models from Audi, Ford, Honda, Hyundai and Kia; a full list of compatible vehicles can be found on the campaign page.
Price and availability
AutoPro X is currently being funded via Kickstarter, where the product can be pre-ordered for $140, plus tax and shipping, with delivery expected to start in June 2024. The campaign is still has 14 days to go, but has already reached its goal, having already raised a total of $61,815 from 423 backers thus far. As usual, when backing Kickstarter projects there is a certain risk that products may not come to fruition or may be delivered in poor quality.
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