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I started this post on the Gladiator forum and figured I would x-post for the benefit of the Wrangler owners.
I am not affiliated with the Aliexpress seller or HU manufacturer, just a guy who upgrades and shares. The content is spliced from a few different forum posts.
I've casually been researching the feasibility of retrofitting the 2024 dash but haven't had the time to pull everything together. The primary purpose is the new head unit; I don't particularly like that the factory head unit runs the Uconnect OS. I'd much rather have Android, where I can use apps natively without a magic box (android plugin).
I have been running the Stinger HU with a magic box for Android and 4G internet. Unfortunately, the system doesn't allow for multitouch, which is a PIA in map apps.
This new Android head unit has been the best option I've found. It's only been one week, but I will share my findings.
For context, I originally had the Uconnect 8.4", Insane Audio JL3001, and most recently the Stinger Heigh 10. I had been running a magic box (android unit) on the Uconnect and Stinger units.
I have the factory auxiliary buttons, front and rear cameras, and all other options except locking diffs. The vehicle settings menu "was" important; more on that later. I have the MB Quart speakers & amps, along with a Kicker-powered sub.
My primary purpose in moving from the factory unit was to have Google Maps, streaming music, and other Android apps. I don't connect my phone to the head unit because the Android Auto is watered down and takes over phone calls where I prefer to use my earbuds. The magic box was a great solution, but the limitations included poor cold weather performance (it wouldn't run in subzero temps) and didn't have multitouch (an issue with how the magic boxes connect to head units).
The new Android head unit:
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
I'll add updates as I experience new things. In my opinion, this is the best aftermarket head unit for the 2018 - 2023 JL & JT platforms. It's also a great way to get the 2024 dash design without the $2k - $4k investment.
I am not affiliated with the Aliexpress seller or HU manufacturer, just a guy who upgrades and shares. The content is spliced from a few different forum posts.
I've casually been researching the feasibility of retrofitting the 2024 dash but haven't had the time to pull everything together. The primary purpose is the new head unit; I don't particularly like that the factory head unit runs the Uconnect OS. I'd much rather have Android, where I can use apps natively without a magic box (android plugin).
I have been running the Stinger HU with a magic box for Android and 4G internet. Unfortunately, the system doesn't allow for multitouch, which is a PIA in map apps.
This new Android head unit has been the best option I've found. It's only been one week, but I will share my findings.
For context, I originally had the Uconnect 8.4", Insane Audio JL3001, and most recently the Stinger Heigh 10. I had been running a magic box (android unit) on the Uconnect and Stinger units.
I have the factory auxiliary buttons, front and rear cameras, and all other options except locking diffs. The vehicle settings menu "was" important; more on that later. I have the MB Quart speakers & amps, along with a Kicker-powered sub.
My primary purpose in moving from the factory unit was to have Google Maps, streaming music, and other Android apps. I don't connect my phone to the head unit because the Android Auto is watered down and takes over phone calls where I prefer to use my earbuds. The magic box was a great solution, but the limitations included poor cold weather performance (it wouldn't run in subzero temps) and didn't have multitouch (an issue with how the magic boxes connect to head units).
The new Android head unit:
Specs:
- 12.3" 1920x720 screen
- Android 12
- 6GB Ram
- 128GB Rom
- UIS 7862 Octacore CPU 2Ghz
- CANBUS box for HVAC integration
- 4G Connectivity
Pros:
- Fast boot
- Zippy performance
- Firmware and System settings are customizable
- Looks amazing + beautiful screen
- Horizontal is the best screen orientation for the Jeep, they got the 2024 dash design right
- center vents are a perfect match
- DSP system with full equalizer
- Great sound output
Cons:
- I ordered the 8GB Ram + 256GB Rom but this must not be available
- Factory menu is not available (I thought this would be a show stopper but it isn't)
- The backup camera doesn't work yet (it shows no signal, but I have a solution)
- The kit replaces the trim for the gauges and the design is like the 2024 gauge trim, which is flat vs rounded. The Chinese version isn't ergonomically correct, it seems designed for more of a straight-on view (perhaps for a person with a shorter torso)
- I am going to try to make my factory gauge trim work
- There are no instructions
- The unit partially blocks the left passenger vent
I'll add updates as I experience new things. In my opinion, this is the best aftermarket head unit for the 2018 - 2023 JL & JT platforms. It's also a great way to get the 2024 dash design without the $2k - $4k investment.
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