This adapter comes in two versions that solve two different problems. Picking the wrong one means it will not work with your car at all, so here is the actual difference.

What the Wired Version Does

The wired version adds Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink to many aftermarket Android head units that do not otherwise support them. You connect it with the included USB cable. It is priced at $59.99 (list $99.99).

What the Wireless Version Does

The wireless version is for cars that already have a factory head unit with wired CarPlay built in. It converts that existing wired setup into a cable-free one - you still plug the dongle in once, but your phone connects over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi after that instead of a cable. It is priced at $69.99 (list $99.99).

Which One Do You Need

If your car's screen already runs Apple CarPlay through a USB cable, get the wireless version. If you have an aftermarket Android stereo that does not run CarPlay or Android Auto at all yet, get the wired version. Both use the same dual Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection for pairing and low-lag streaming, and both work with iOS 9.0+ and Android 4.0+.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the wireless version add CarPlay to a car that does not have it at all?

No. The wireless version converts an existing factory wired CarPlay system to wireless - it does not add CarPlay to a car that never had it. For that, you need the wired version paired with a compatible aftermarket Android head unit.

Do both versions work with iPhone and Android?

Yes, both run on iOS 9.0 or newer and Android 4.0 or newer, though which apps display (CarPlay vs Android Auto) depends on the phone you connect.

Is one version more reliable than the other?

Both use the same dual Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection method. Reliability depends more on your specific car and phone combination than on which version you choose - see our compatibility and troubleshooting guides for details.

Ready to go cable-free? Check out the Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto Adapter.