ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto 7-inch IPS Carplay Display Review: A Game Changer for Older Vehicles

For years, I found myself in a familiar predicament, driving an older vehicle that, while mechanically sound, felt increasingly disconnected from the modern digital world. Navigating through unfamiliar territories meant fumbling with my phone, glancing down at a small screen, and constantly battling the distraction of incoming calls or messages. This lack of integrated technology, specifically modern mapping and hands-free communication, wasn’t just an inconvenience; it was a genuine safety concern, creating unnecessary hazards on the road. Upgrading the entire head unit was an expensive and daunting task, so a simpler, more accessible solution that could bring features like the ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto, 7 inch IPS Carplay Display would have helped me immensely to solve this problem effectively.

Before you commit to a new car entertainment solution, it’s crucial to understand why you need one and what features are most important for your driving habits. The core problem these devices solve is bridging the gap between an older vehicle’s limited technology and today’s smartphone-driven world. If your car lacks built-in navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, or hands-free calling capabilities, or if you simply prefer a larger, more integrated display for your phone’s apps, then a product in this category is definitely worth considering. It allows for safer interaction with your smartphone while driving, providing access to maps, music, and messages without the dangerous distraction of holding your device.

The ideal customer for a portable car display like the ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto is someone who owns an older car (sedan, truck, trailer, etc.) that doesn’t have a modern infotainment system, but isn’t looking for an expensive, complex, and permanent double-DIN head unit installation. This type of device is perfect for those who want an easy, plug-and-play solution that they can even move between vehicles if needed. If you’re an audiophile seeking top-tier sound quality with intricate equalizer settings or require deep integration with your vehicle’s existing diagnostic systems, this might not be the right fit. In such cases, a professional installation of a high-end, dedicated head unit might be more suitable, but for the vast majority seeking convenience and safety, a portable display excels. When considering your purchase, think about screen size preference, the type of phone connectivity you need (wireless is key), how you want the audio to output (AUX, FM, Bluetooth), and the simplicity of installation.

ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto, 7 inch IPS Carplay Display, Supports Siri & G-oogle Assistant,...
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Introducing the ESSGOO Portable Car Display

The ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto, 7 inch IPS Carplay Display is a compact, 7-inch IPS touchscreen device designed to bring the convenience of modern smartphone integration, namely Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, into virtually any vehicle. Its primary promise is to offer a seamless, wireless connection to your smartphone, providing access to navigation, music, and communication apps directly on its display, all without the need for complex, permanent installation. When you purchase this unit, it typically comes with the main 7-inch portable CarPlay screen, an adjustable suction cup mount for flexible placement, a cigarette lighter power cable (which thoughtfully includes extra USB ports for charging other devices), an AUX cable for direct audio connection, and a user manual to guide you through setup.

Compared to a full, integrated car infotainment system (often found in newer vehicles), the ESSGOO Carplay Display offers a significantly more affordable and user-friendly alternative, bypassing the need for professional installation or modification of your car’s dashboard. While a factory-installed system might offer deeper vehicle diagnostics or higher-fidelity audio output, this ESSGOO unit focuses on essential smartphone connectivity. For those with older vehicles, it’s a direct upgrade from basic FM transmitters or standalone Bluetooth receivers, which only handle audio and lack the crucial visual interface. This specific ESSGOO display is perfect for drivers who want a quick, non-invasive upgrade for hands-free operations and navigation, rather than a complete overhaul of their car’s interior.

Here’s a quick look at its pros and cons:

Pros:
* Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto: Offers seamless, automatic connectivity for both iPhone and Android users.
* Effortless Installation: Designed for quick, DIY setup with no special tools or technical expertise required.
* Versatile Audio Output: Supports FM transmission, AUX cable, and Bluetooth connectivity to car speakers.
* 7-inch IPS Touchscreen: Provides a clear, responsive, and adequately sized display for navigation and app control.
* Universal Compatibility: Works with a wide range of vehicle models, from sedans to trucks.
* Good Value: Delivers a robust feature set for a very competitive price.

Cons:
* Microphone Quality: While functional for calls and voice commands, the built-in microphone could be clearer in noisy environments.
* Screen Glossiness/Colors: The screen can be a bit glossy, potentially causing reflections, and some users have noted colors can appear slightly washed out compared to premium displays.
* Suction Cup Sticky Pad: The adhesive on the suction cup mount, while strong, is effectively permanent once applied, which might not suit everyone.
* FM Transmitter Limitations: Audio quality via FM transmission, while decent, is generally not as pristine as a direct AUX connection or a factory Bluetooth system.
* Netflix Not Supported: Mirror Link functionality does not extend to protected content like Netflix.

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Key Attributes and Their Advantages

Having used the ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto, 7 inch IPS Carplay Display for a significant period, I can attest to how its features truly translate into a better driving experience. Each component of this device is designed with practicality and user convenience in mind, directly addressing the common frustrations associated with older car technology.

Seamless Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto Integration

This is, without a doubt, the standout feature. The portable CarPlay screen supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it incredibly versatile for households with different smartphone ecosystems. From the moment I turn on my car, and with my phone’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled, the connection is almost instantaneous. There’s no fumbling with cables or waiting for a slow boot-up; my smartphone automatically links, and the familiar CarPlay or Android Auto interface appears on the 7-inch display.

The benefits here are immense. Firstly, it’s a huge boost for safety. With Google Maps or Apple Maps projected clearly on the screen, I don’t need to constantly glance down at my phone. Messaging, calls, and music are all accessible through the display or voice commands, minimizing distractions. Secondly, the convenience is unparalleled. I have full access to my preferred navigation apps, music streaming services like Spotify, and messaging apps, all integrated into a car-friendly interface. It completely eliminates the mess of charging cables snaking across the dashboard, providing a much cleaner and more organized driving environment. It’s truly transformative, turning a potentially distracting phone into a safe co-pilot.

Vivid 7-inch IPS Touchscreen Display

The 7-inch IPS touchscreen is another crucial element. IPS technology ensures excellent viewing angles, which is vital in a car where the screen might not always be directly in front of the driver. The display is bright and remarkably responsive to touch inputs. Whether I’m zooming in on a map, scrolling through playlists, or making a selection, the screen reacts promptly, making interactions smooth and intuitive.

While some might find the screen a little glossy, causing minor reflections in certain lighting conditions, and a few users have mentioned that the colors can appear slightly washed out compared to ultra-premium displays, I’ve found that the image sharpness is surprisingly good, and it remains easy to see even in direct sunlight. The larger size, compared to a phone, makes a significant difference, reducing eye strain and allowing for quick, confident interactions while driving. It elevates the overall experience beyond just audio, providing a comprehensive visual interface that enhances usability and safety.

Effortless Installation and Superb Portability

The ease of installation is one of the most compelling aspects of this CarPlay device. Unlike traditional car head units that require complex wiring, dashboard disassembly, and often professional installation, the ESSGOO unit is genuinely plug-and-play. The adjustable suction cup mount adheres securely to the dashboard or windscreen, and the single cigarette lighter power cable powers the unit. It took me mere minutes to set up initially.

This simple setup offers incredible portability and flexibility. I’ve even moved it between vehicles, which is a huge advantage if you have multiple cars or frequently use rental vehicles. There’s no damage to the car’s interior, and no need for specialized tools. A minor point to consider is the sticky pad on the suction cup, which creates an incredibly strong, almost permanent bond. While this ensures stability and prevents any bouncing around while driving, some users might prefer a purely suction-based mount for easier repositioning without residue. However, once installed, the arm is sturdy and keeps the display perfectly in place.

Versatile Audio Output Options (FM/AUX/Bluetooth)

The ESSGOO unit offers multiple ways to transmit audio to your car’s speakers, ensuring compatibility with virtually any vehicle.
* FM Transmitter Mode: This is ideal for older cars without an AUX input or Bluetooth. The unit broadcasts its audio on a selected FM frequency, which you then tune your car radio to. While the audio quality is dependent on local FM interference and generally not studio-grade, it’s surprisingly clear and functions well for navigation prompts and music. I found it to be as good as any other FM transmitter I’ve used.
* AUX Cable Connection: For cars equipped with an AUX input, using the included AUX cable provides the best audio quality. This direct wired connection bypasses any potential FM interference, delivering crisp and clear sound for music and calls. This is my preferred method whenever available.
* Bluetooth Connectivity: The unit itself has Bluetooth 5.3, allowing it to connect to your smartphone. If your car has built-in Bluetooth audio streaming, you might be able to stream the audio from the ESSGOO unit to your car’s stereo via Bluetooth, though this is less common for portable units and usually involves the phone connecting directly to the car or the portable unit connecting to the car’s Bluetooth. The main Bluetooth functionality is for the unit to connect to your phone. The `ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto` then handles audio output via its own FM/AUX/BT.

This multi-faceted approach to audio output means that no matter how old or basic your car’s audio system is, you’ll be able to enjoy sound from the unit, making it a truly universal solution.

Mirror Link/Airplay Functionality

Beyond CarPlay and Android Auto, this display also features Mirror Link and Airplay technology. This allows you to cast your smartphone’s screen directly onto the 7-inch display. While primarily useful when the vehicle is stationary (as watching videos while driving is unsafe and illegal), it’s a great feature for passengers or when waiting in the car. You can enjoy movies, browse photos, or even show presentations on a larger screen. It’s important to note, however, that due to copyright protection, streaming services like Netflix are generally not supported for mirroring. By transmitting the sound via AUX or FM to the car speakers, you get a full multimedia experience, blending high-definition visuals with stereo sound.

Intelligent Siri & Google Assistant Voice Control

The integration of Siri and Google Assistant is another major safety enhancement. With the ESSGOO portable CarPlay screen, I can use voice commands for almost everything – setting navigation destinations, making calls, sending messages, changing music, or even asking for information. This means my hands stay on the wheel and my eyes stay on the road, drastically reducing the risk of distracted driving. While the microphone quality, as mentioned, isn’t always perfect in very noisy environments, it’s more than adequate for clear communication and responsive voice commands. The convenience of simply saying “Hey Siri” or “Hey Google” to control my phone’s functions through the display is something I now can’t imagine driving without.

Extensive Vehicle Compatibility

One of the most appealing aspects of this Carplay display is its universal compatibility. Whether you drive a compact sedan, a family SUV, a large truck, or even a trailer, the ESSGOO unit is designed to work. Its independent nature means it doesn’t rely on your car’s existing wiring harnesses or dashboard layout. This broad compatibility makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to modernize their vehicle’s capabilities without worrying about specific make or model restrictions. It truly is a versatile solution for a smarter and safer drive, regardless of your vehicle.

Genuine Feedback from Users

Having scoured various online platforms, it’s clear that the ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto, 7 inch IPS Carplay Display generally receives very positive feedback from users who appreciate its functionality and value. Many drivers, particularly those with older cars, highlight the seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, noting how quickly and easily their phones connect. Users frequently praise the simple setup and strong suction mount, which keeps the screen stable even on bumpy roads. The ability to use Google Maps, stream music, and make hands-free calls through the unit is a consistent strong point. While some mentioned the microphone quality could be better for calls and that the screen colors might appear slightly faded, these are often considered minor issues given the overall performance and affordable price. The added USB ports on the power cable are also a popular bonus.

Final Thoughts

Driving an older vehicle lacking modern infotainment features can be a significant drawback, impacting not just convenience but, more importantly, safety. Fumbling with a smartphone for navigation or communication diverts crucial attention from the road, leading to potentially dangerous situations. The need for a straightforward, effective solution to integrate smartphone capabilities is paramount for any driver.

The ESSGOO A-pple CarPlay & Android Auto, 7 inch IPS Carplay Display stands out as an excellent fit for solving this problem. Its wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, combined with an intuitive 7-inch IPS touchscreen, immediately transform your driving experience, providing access to essential apps like maps and music right on your dash. The incredibly easy, non-invasive installation means you can upgrade your car without any technical headaches or costly professional help. For anyone seeking to enhance their vehicle’s functionality and improve driving safety without breaking the bank, this portable Carplay display is a highly recommended solution. To learn more and check out this fantastic product, Click here!

Last update on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API