As someone who spends a fair amount of time on the road in Los Angeles, I've always appreciated the convenience of modern in-car technology.
My current vehicle, while reliable, predates the widespread integration of features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. (Maybe raise time, Buff bosses??) This left me in a bit of a quandary: upgrade my entire car or find a smart aftermarket solution. The Intellidash Pro X10 caught my eye, promising to bridge that technological gap.
So, I picked one up and gave it a shot. It's made sitting in L.A. traffic a little (a lot) more entertaining..
The unit features a large, crisp display and feels surprisingly premium. Installation was remarkably straightforward. I opted for the suction cup mount, which has held firm on my dashboard without issue. Powering it up was as simple as plugging it into my car's 12V socket. Within minutes, the device was ready to go and I had my iPhone wirelessly connected via Apple CarPlay.
The primary reason I invested in the Intellidash Pro X10 was for its wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, and in this regard, it truly shines. The connection to my phone is almost instantaneous when I start the car, providing seamless access to navigation apps like Apple Maps and Waze, my music library, podcasts, and communication features.
The touch screen is highly responsive, with gestures feeling natural and fluid, much like using a modern smartphone. The display clarity is excellent, even in various lighting conditions, making it easy to read maps and see album art at a glance.
Audio integration was another key concern, and the Intellidash Pro X10 offers multiple solutions. I initially tried the built-in FM transmitter, which worked acceptably, though I did notice some minor interference in areas with many radio stations. My preferred method, and what truly elevated the audio experience, was connecting the unit to my car's AUX input. This provided crystal-clear sound, allowing me to fully enjoy my music and podcasts without compromise. There's also a Bluetooth option, which I used for calls, and it delivered clear conversations on both ends.
Beyond the core CarPlay/Android Auto functionality, I appreciate the Intellidash Pro X10’s additional features. It includes a USB port which I found handy for charging my phone, and it even supports mirroring from my Android tablet, which could be useful for a passenger. The unit also has a dedicated input for a reverse camera, a feature I haven’t exploited yet but definitely plan to in the future.
In my daily use, the Intellidash Pro X10 has become an indispensable part of my driving experience. It’s transformed my older vehicle into a modern hub for connectivity and entertainment, making commutes more enjoyable and navigation less stressful.
For anyone looking to upgrade their car’s tech without the cost and hassle of a full head unit replacement, I say the Intellidash Pro X10 is an exceptional, user-friendly and highly effective solution. It delivers on its promises and has significantly enhanced my time on the road.