If your truck was built before 2019 — or even some newer models with base-trim stereos — there's a good chance your factory head unit doesn't support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These smartphone integration platforms have become essential for navigation, hands-free calling, messaging, and music streaming, and upgrading your head unit to support them is one of the fastest, most impactful tech upgrades you can make.
Even if you're not planning a full custom audio build, a modern head unit with wireless CarPlay or Android Auto transforms the daily driving experience.
CarPlay mirrors a simplified version of your iPhone's interface on your truck's screen. You get Apple Maps or Google Maps for navigation, Siri for voice control, iMessage and phone calls hands-free, and all your music apps — Apple Music, Spotify, Podcasts, Audible, and more. The interface is clean, responsive, and designed to minimize distraction while driving.
Android Auto does the same thing for Android phones. Google Maps and Waze for navigation, Google Assistant for voice control, messaging, calls, and music streaming through Spotify, YouTube Music, and other apps. Android Auto tends to be slightly more customizable in its layout and supports a wider range of third-party apps.
Whichever phone you use. Both platforms are mature, reliable, and well-designed. The head units we install at Redline support both, so you're covered regardless of which phone you carry or if you switch platforms in the future.
Wired CarPlay and Android Auto use a USB cable to connect your phone to the head unit. The connection is instant, stable, and doesn't drain your phone battery. The downside is you need to plug in your phone every time you get in the truck, and you've got a cable running from the dash to wherever your phone sits.
Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connect via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. You get in the truck, the system detects your phone in your pocket, and everything connects automatically. It's seamless and convenient. The downsides: wireless connections use more battery (your phone drains faster), there can be occasional connection drops, and there's a slight delay in audio compared to wired.
For daily driving, wireless is the way to go. The convenience of not plugging in a cable every time far outweighs the minor battery impact. Most wireless head units also support wired connection as a backup, so you can plug in when your battery is low.
Our go-to recommendation for most truck builds. Shallow chassis fits virtually any dash kit. Wireless CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Clean, responsive 7-inch touchscreen. High-voltage preamp outputs (4V) for clean signal to amplifiers.
Step up to this unit for wireless CarPlay AND wireless Android Auto — both wireless. 6.8-inch HD touchscreen with excellent visibility in Florida sun. Built-in Garmin navigation as a backup when you don't want to use your phone. 5V preamp outputs for the cleanest signal possible.
The premium option with a floating 10.1-inch HD touchscreen that looks stunning in any dash. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. Built-in 13-band EQ, time alignment, and active crossover network — this unit can replace a standalone DSP in many builds.
Many newer trucks have factory screens integrated into the dash design, and replacing them with an aftermarket unit can look awkward or require expensive dash kits. For these vehicles, we offer module-based solutions that add wireless CarPlay and Android Auto to your existing factory screen. Brands like CarlinKit, AutoSky, and OEM-specific solutions integrate seamlessly without modifying your dash.
These adapter modules are particularly popular for newer RAM, Ford, and Chevy trucks where the factory screen is deeply integrated into the dashboard and climate controls.
A head unit upgrade is one of the simpler audio installations. For most trucks, the process involves removing the factory unit and trim, installing a vehicle-specific dash kit and wiring harness adapter, mounting the new head unit, and connecting power, speaker outputs, and any retained factory features (steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc.).
Professional installation takes 2–4 hours and ensures everything works correctly — steering wheel controls, backup camera, microphone for hands-free calling, and USB connections are all integrated and tested.
A modern head unit with CarPlay or Android Auto is the upgrade you'll use every single time you drive. At Redline Auto Creations, we carry all major brands and can recommend the perfect unit for your truck and your budget. Contact us or call (813) 544-4009 to get started.
At Redline Auto Creations, we specialize in crafting custom vehicles with precision and passion. From wheels and tires to suspension, performance upgrades, and custom designs, we bring your vision to life. Contact us today and transform your ride.
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