While phone projection systems are incredibly popular, there are other aspects of “smart infotainment” worth mentioning:

• Built-in Connected Infotainment: Some newer cars come with their own embedded systems that have apps and internet connectivity independent of your phone. For example, many recent Volvos, Polestars, and GM vehicles use Android Automotive OS – a full Android-based system in the car that can run apps like Google Maps and Spotify natively, without needing your phone (though you can still link your phone for data or account sync). This is different from Android Auto – it’s the car’s operating system. It can be updated over-the-air and often includes Google Assistant built-in to the car, meaning you can say “Hey Google” without a phone and control vehicle functions too. The advantage is you get features like built-in Google Maps even if your phone isn’t connected, and the car manufacturers can deeply integrate things (like climate control via voice).
• Manufacturer Apps and Services: Most brands have smartphone apps that connect to the car (e.g., FordPass, myChevrolet, BMW ConnectedDrive). Through these, you can do things like remote start, lock/unlock, send destinations to the car’s nav, etc. It’s part of the broader infotainment ecosystem – worth exploring what your car’s app offers.
• Voice Assistants like Alexa: Some vehicles now integrate Amazon Alexa. This means in the car you can say “Alexa, add eggs to my shopping list” or control smart home devices while on the road. It’s basically like having an Echo Dot in your car, linked to your Amazon account.
• Heads-Up Displays and Digital Clusters: Infotainment info is not just confined to the center screen. Many cars project navigation prompts, calls, and even music info onto a heads-up display (HUD) on the windshield or in the digital instrument cluster. This can be very convenient – keep an eye if your car has settings to show more or less info on those secondary displays. For instance, you might enable turn-by-turn directions in the cluster so you can follow nav without glancing at the main screen.
• Subscription Features: Note that some connected services in cars require subscriptions after a trial period – for example, live traffic in the built-in nav, or CarPlay in certain luxury brands (though most include it free). Be aware of what’s free and what’s paid. The good news: CarPlay and Android Auto themselves do not require a subscription (beyond your phone’s data plan usage).
• Emerging Tech: The future infotainment experience might include augmented reality displays, in-car AI assistants that converse with you, or even integration with your calendar to proactively suggest leaving early due to traffic. Automakers are exploring all these. One interesting stat: A JD Power survey in 2024 noted that infotainment is the lowest-scoring category in owner satisfaction – except among owners who regularly use CarPlay/Android Auto, who report higher satisfaction[58]. This suggests future systems will double-down on seamless phone integration and intuitive design, possibly even allowing deeper phone-car integration (like the upcoming next-gen CarPlay that can show info like speedometer and climate controls from the car).

In short, infotainment is rapidly evolving – but the core goal remains: make driving more enjoyable, connected, and safe through easy access to information and media.

By mastering the tips above and leveraging platforms like CarPlay and Android Auto, you’ll turn your car’s infotainment from a source of frustration into one of your favorite features. It’s all about syncing your digital life with your driving life. So next time you hit the road, pair that phone (or fire up that built-in system), cue up your driving playlist or podcast, set your navigation with a friendly voice command, and enjoy the journey with your “smart” car as your copilot.

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Upgrade Your Old Car with New Smart Gadgets

Not everyone can buy a brand-new high-tech car – but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on modern smart features. With a little creativity and some affordable gadgets, you can upgrade your old car and make it feel fresh, connected, and intelligent. From adding a rear camera for safe backing, to streaming music and using GPS like newer cars do, there’s a gadget for almost everything. Here are 10 smart car upgrades that can breathe new life into your older vehicle (without breaking the bank):

1. Dash Cam (and Backup Camera) – A dash cam is a small windshield-mounted camera that continuously records the road ahead. Dash cams have gone from luxury to near-essential, because they provide on-demand, incontrovertible proof in case of accidents, road incidents, or even parking lot vandalism[59]. If someone cuts you off and causes a crash, you have video evidence to show the police or insurance. It’s peace of mind against fraud (like “staged accidents”) and hit-and-runs. Decent dash cams are very affordable now – you can get a good one for well under $100. Many plug into your 12V socket and stick by suction cup to the windshield. Installation is often as easy as hiding the power cable along the headliner and trim. Once powered, they start recording automatically when you drive. Tip: Look for features like loop recording (automatically overwrites old footage), G-sensor (auto-saves clips of impacts), and night vision.

A compact dash cam mounted on the windshield. Dash cams continuously record your drive, acting as a silent witness in case of accidents or incidents[59].

In addition to a dash cam up front, consider adding a backup camera if your car lacks one. Backing into things is an easy way to ding an old car – a cheap backup camera can prevent that. You can buy aftermarket camera kits that either attach near your license plate or are built into a license plate frame. These usually wire to a small screen or to a replacement rear-view mirror that has a display. Many backup camera kits cost under $50[60], and they greatly improve safety when reversing. Some even include parking sensor beepers. If you want to splurge, there are combo units (like a smart rearview mirror) that integrate a front dash cam, rear camera, and even provide a continuous rear view feed.

Between a dash cam and a backup cam, you cover both forward and reverse scenarios – protecting yourself from false claims and making parking much easier. It’s a highly recommended upgrade for any older vehicle.

2. Bluetooth Audio Adapter – If your car is old enough to not have built-in Bluetooth for music and calls, fear not – you can add it easily. A Bluetooth FM transmitter is the simplest solution. This gadget plugs into your 12V cigarette lighter and pairs with your phone via Bluetooth. It then broadcasts your phone’s audio on a blank FM radio frequency which you tune your car stereo to[61]. Essentially, it’s a mini radio station sending your music or call audio to your car’s FM radio. Many of these adapters also have controls for skipping tracks, adjusting volume, and taking calls, plus USB ports for charging your phone[61]. They’re super cheap (around $15-$30). While FM transmitters can have some static, good models let you find a clear frequency and even display the car battery voltage or song info.

If your car has an aux input, an even better solution is a Bluetooth AUX receiver. This is a tiny device that plugs into the 3.5mm AUX jack and simply receives Bluetooth audio from your phone, outputting it to the aux. They tend to have better sound quality than FM and cost under $20[62]. Some have built-in microphones so you can handle phone calls through the car speakers as well.

For really old cars with only a cassette player, believe it or not, Bluetooth cassette adapters exist. It’s a cassette-shaped gadget you insert, and it receives Bluetooth audio to play through the tape heads. Surprisingly effective for vintage rides!

Bottom line: no more fumbling with CDs or being stuck with radio ads – a Bluetooth adapter gives you wireless music streaming, podcasts, and hands-free calling in any car. As SlashGear put it, “if you haven’t grabbed a Bluetooth conversion kit yet, you’re seriously missing out”[63]. It’s arguably the most transformative quick upgrade for driving enjoyment.

3. Smartphone Mount – Using your phone for navigation or music is only helpful if you can see and reach it safely. A solid phone holder is a must. There are various styles: windshield suction mounts, dashboard adhesive mounts, vent clips, CD slot mounts. Choose what fits your car’s interior and doesn’t obstruct your view. The goal is to have your phone at a glanceable height, so you’re not looking down in your lap (which is dangerous). With a mount, you can more easily follow Google Maps or Waze, see who’s calling, or skip a song, all with minimal eye diversion.

Some of the best mounts are magnetic – you stick a thin metal plate on your phone or case, and the mount’s magnet grabs it. This makes for quick one-handed placement and removal. Just ensure the magnet is strong enough to handle bumps. Other mounts use clamps – look for ones that are adjustable to your phone size and have a quick-release.

As a bonus, consider a wireless charging mount. These mounts plug into power and will charge your phone (if it supports Qi wireless charging) whenever it’s docked. That way, using battery-intensive nav or music apps won’t drain your phone. Even if not wireless, having a charging cable routed to your mount is smart so that your phone stays charged on the go.

A properly mounted phone basically acts like an extension of your car’s infotainment. And if you’ve added that Bluetooth adapter from #2, your mounted phone is your infotainment system now – a poor man’s CarPlay, if you will. Mounts are cheap (often $10-$20), but be sure to get one that’s sturdy; you don’t want it and your phone flying off under braking.

4. Touchscreen Head Unit (CarPlay/Android Auto Receiver) – This is a bigger upgrade: replacing your car’s head unit (stereo) with a modern touchscreen system. If your dash has a standard DIN or double-DIN slot (common in many older cars), you can swap in an aftermarket infotainment system that adds features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, backup camera input, and more[64]. Brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, Sony, and others make these. There are also budget Chinese units that surprisingly pack a lot in.

For example, you might purchase a 7-inch touchscreen receiver that includes both CarPlay and Android Auto support[65]. Suddenly, your 2005 car can have a full modern interface: navigation on screen, streaming apps, hands-free control, etc. These units often also support steering wheel control adapters so you don’t lose functionality of your factory buttons.

Installation can be a bit involved – you’ll need a wiring harness adapter for your car and possibly a dash kit to fit the shape. If you’re not comfortable with car electronics, a professional install might be worth it. But the results are amazing: it can truly make an old vehicle feel brand new tech-wise[66]. Not only do you get touchscreen convenience, but often these units have better sound quality than old stock radios, plus features like equalizers, satellite radio, multiple USB ports, etc.

Many receivers also let you hook up that backup camera we discussed, displaying it on the screen when you shift to reverse[67]. Some even integrate with OBD-II adapters to display car data, or have add-ons like dash cam DVR recording or gauge displays.

Cost varies: basic units with CarPlay/AA can be around $250-$400 (as referenced, a Boss double-DIN CarPlay unit might be ~$285[65]), while high-end models with capacitive screens and built-in nav can go $700+. But considering that infotainment is the heart of the driving experience for many, it could be a worthwhile investment. It’s “halfway to a smart car for a fraction of the price” as one article noted[68].

5. Heads-Up Display (HUD) Device – If you want a futuristic touch, consider an aftermarket HUD. These devices project key info (speed, navigation arrows, etc.) onto a transparent screen or directly onto the windshield in your line of sight. The concept sounds high-tech, but you can buy a simple HUD that plugs into your OBD-II port for around $30-$50[69][70].

For example, the ACECAR HUD mentioned in one report costs about $33 and shows your speedometer, RPM, fuel, and other cluster readings projected up front[71]. It typically comes with a reflective film you place on the windshield to enhance visibility of the projection. As you drive, it looks like a floating display over the hood – very cool. These devices often have automatic brightness adjustment so they’re visible in daytime but not blinding at night[72].

The neat thing is many HUD units are plug-and-play via OBD-II – meaning they pull data from the car’s diagnostic port (every car since 1996 has one) for accurate speed and engine info[72]. Some can also use GPS for speed if OBD data isn’t available (like on diesel or older cars), though GPS has a slight lag. They’re usually configurable to show what you want: you could just have speed and a compass, or more data.

A HUD keeps your eyes on the road, which has safety benefits. It’s not a full augmented reality system, but even just projecting your speed and maybe a navigation arrow means you glance down at the dash less. It’s a fun gadget that channels Iron Man vibes, making your car feel more futuristic. Keep in mind they work best if you’re sitting such that the projection aligns; if two people of very different height both drive the car, one might not see it perfectly. But for a single primary driver, it’s a slick upgrade.

6. OBD-II Vehicle Health Monitor (Smart Tracker) – Your car’s OBD-II port isn’t just for mechanics – you can plug in a smart OBD-II device that gives you all sorts of data and functions via your smartphone. There are a few categories here:

• Vehicle Trackers: Some devices focus on tracking the car’s location (like a LoJack alternative or teen driver monitor). For instance, the Bouncie tracker plugs into OBD-II and uses a cellular connection to let you see your car’s live location, get geofence alerts (notification if the car leaves a defined area), and even get driving behavior alerts[73][74]. Great for keeping an eye on teen drivers or recovering a stolen vehicle. These services usually have a monthly fee (~$8/month as noted for Bouncie[75]).

• Diagnostic Scanners with Bluetooth: These are aimed at mechanics or DIYers, but can be used by anyone. A small Bluetooth OBD-II dongle (like the popular FIXD or OBDLink brands) can pair with an app on your phone to show you engine fault codes, real-time sensor data, and maintenance info[76][77]. If your “Check Engine” light comes on, instead of panicking, you check your app and see “Cylinder 3 misfire” or “Oxygen sensor fault,” etc. It empowers you to know if it’s something critical or something you can drive with to the mechanic. Some also suggest likely fixes or severity. As SlashGear noted, a device like FIXD can translate over 7,000 engine fault codes into plain English on your phone[78]. Many will also reset codes if you fix the issue.

• Driving Data Loggers: Some apps track your trips, fuel economy, etc., using OBD-II data. This can be neat to analyze your driving habits, find if your car is running efficiently, or keep logs for business mileage.

The beauty is many OBD gadgets combine these features. Privacy and subscription are considerations – many trackers need a cell plan, while basic Bluetooth scanners do not (they just use your phone). If you don’t need live tracking, a basic $20 Bluetooth OBD adapter plus a good app (like Torque for Android or OBD Fusion for iPhone) can give you tremendous insight for cheap.

By using a smart OBD device, you essentially make your old car “connected” and intelligent. It can notify you of problems, help you improve driving, and even call for help in a crash (some services detect crashes via the G-sensor and will alert contacts). Note: Always ensure any device you use is from a reputable source – the OBD port provides power and data, and a poorly made device could theoretically introduce electrical noise or issues (rare, but stick to well-reviewed products).

7. Interior RGB LED Lighting Kit – Want to add some ambiance like newer cars with mood lighting? An LED interior light strip kit can do the trick. These kits usually come with flexible LED strips you can stick under the dash, under seats, or along footwells. They plug into the 12V socket or fuse box, and often come with a remote or smartphone app to change colors. You can choose from 16 million colors and even set the lights to pulse to your music’s beat[79].

For example, a Govee LED car light strip set might run you $20-$30 and is easy to install. These kits typically have four strips (two for front footwells, two for rear). Many are plug-and-play with a cigarette lighter adapter; more advanced ones can be hardwired. They use very little power (LEDs are efficient).

While this is more of a cosmetic upgrade than a “smart” feature, it does make your car feel modern and personalized, akin to high-end vehicles that have ambient lighting in the doors and console. You can have calming blue glow for a relaxed night drive, or fiery red for fun. Just be aware of legality – in some places, certain colors (like red/blue that could be confused for emergency lights) shouldn’t be visible outside. Best practice: keep LED strips tucked so you see the glow inside but bulbs aren’t directly visible from outside.

As the SlashGear article quips, if you want to feel like you’re driving a cyberpunk machine without paying for a new car, LED strips give that vibe[80][81]. They’re especially popular with the younger tuners, but even a middle-aged commuter can enjoy a little interior glow to soothe the daily drive. And you can always turn them off when you want a stock look.

8. Parking Sensors – If your car lacks those beepers that help you park, you can add an aftermarket parking sensor kit. These kits typically include ultrasonic sensors (usually 4 sensors for the rear bumper), a control module, and a small speaker or display. When installed, they work just like factory ones: beeping faster as you get close to an obstacle behind you[82].

Some kits include a little LED distance display you can mount on the dash, which shows bars or numbers indicating how close you are[83]. The cost for a basic 4-sensor rear kit can be incredibly low, even around $15-$30 online[34]. The catch is the installation is more involved: you do have to drill holes in your bumper to mount the flush sensors and then run wires to the module, which connects to the reverse light power so it activates when you’re in Reverse. If you’re handy, it can be a DIY project with careful measuring and some tools. If not, a car audio shop or aftermarket installer can likely do it for a fee.

The effort pays off by adding that extra safety net when parallel parking or backing into tight spaces. Even if you have a backup camera, sensors provide a different kind of feedback (auditory) that can complement the camera view. And if weather or dirt obscures the camera, sensors still work. Some people install front sensors too, for parking forward, but rears are most common.

There are also electromagnetic tape sensors that mount inside the bumper (no drilling) – but those have mixed reviews on reliability. The ultrasonic ones, while requiring holes, tend to be reliable and similar to OEM.

Given how inexpensive these kits are, it’s a practical upgrade especially for larger vehicles or anyone who struggles with depth perception when backing. As one guide put it, adding that functionality for “$15 plus a weekend DIY project may well be worth it” for the peace of mind[84].

9. DIY Diagnostic Scanner & App – (We touched on OBD-II earlier in #6 for tracking, but it’s worth highlighting another angle.) If you don’t need real-time tracking but want to empower yourself mechanically, get a Bluetooth OBD-II diagnostic scanner. For example, the FIXD sensor (~$60) plugs in and pairs to your phone. It’ll read and clear engine codes, and even explain problems in plain language[78]. This essentially turns your smartphone into a mechanic’s scan tool.

There are also free/cheap apps like Torque (Android) or OBD Fusion (iOS) which, combined with a $10-$20 generic ELM327 Bluetooth OBD adapter, let you monitor a ton of engine data: coolant temp, fuel trim, throttle position, etc., and log data. It’s great for car enthusiasts or those who want to keep an eye on an aging car’s health. For instance, you could catch that your coolant temperature is creeping up before it overheats, or see if your oxygen sensors are reading properly.

Some devices come with maintenance reminders as well – input your oil change interval, and they’ll ping you when it’s time, or even monitor battery voltage to warn of a weakening battery. Essentially, you give your old car a touch of the modern “maintenance minder” systems that new cars have.

Using a diagnostic tool can also save money. If you know why the Check Engine Light is on, you can sometimes fix a minor issue yourself (like a loose gas cap code) rather than paying a shop just to diagnose it. And if you do go to a mechanic, you’ll be informed and less likely to get upsold unnecessarily.

10. In-Car Wi-Fi Hotspot (Portable Router) – New cars often tout Wi-Fi hotspot capability. You can add that to any car with a portable Wi-Fi router (also called MiFi devices) or even by using an extra smartphone with hotspot enabled. A dedicated 4G LTE car hotspot plugs into your 12V and creates a Wi-Fi network in the car for passengers to use with laptops, tablets, etc.[85]. Some plug into OBD-II for power and even tie into the car for signal boosting via an external antenna.

Alternatively, many modern smartphones allow tethering – you could just use your phone’s hotspot feature. But a downside is it drains phone battery and could overheat on long trips if streaming video for the kids in the back.

Portable routers from carriers or third-party can often accept a data SIM card and might have better antennas for on-road reception. They’re great for road trips with multiple people – for example, the kids can watch Netflix on an iPad, another passenger can work on a laptop, etc., all using the car’s Wi-Fi. Plans for these can sometimes be added to your existing cellular account fairly cheaply (e.g., $10/month for a few GB).

One consideration: if you won’t use it often, you might skip a dedicated plan and just tether off a phone as needed. But heavy users (say you’re a field worker who needs a reliable laptop connection from your vehicle) could benefit from a dedicated router.

This essentially turns your car into a mobile office or entertainment hub. It’s also an enabler for all the other tech – for instance, if you’ve set up a tablet as a rear-seat entertainment for kids, having constant Wi-Fi means seamless streaming.

Lastly, note that some newer OBD-II devices (from #6) double as Wi-Fi hotspots – e.g., Verizon’s Hum or AT&T’s Harman Spark. Those plug in and provide car tracking plus Wi-Fi via a data plan. Killing two birds with one stone.

Conclusion: You don’t need a brand-new car to enjoy the latest technology and conveniences. With these gadgets – many of which cost less than a tank of gas – you can significantly modernize your driving experience. From enhancing safety (dash cams, sensors) to boosting connectivity (Bluetooth audio, Wi-Fi) to just adding fun (lights, HUDs), there’s a tech upgrade for every need and budget. Many are DIY-friendly, and even the more involved ones (head unit swaps, parking sensors) can be done with some elbow grease or affordable professional help.

By upgrading your old car with new smart gadgets, you’ll not only extend its life and usefulness, but you’ll enjoy your time behind the wheel more. It’s about working smarter, not harder – let tech take some of the burden and boredom out of driving. So pick a couple of these upgrades and give them a try. You might be surprised how a little tech TLC can make your trusty old ride feel “new” again.

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Augmented Reality on the Road: AR Heads-Up Displays

Imagine driving and seeing your navigation directions appear to hover on the road ahead of you, exactly where you need to turn – or having warnings flash right in your line of sight when there’s a hazard. This is the promise of Augmented Reality (AR) Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) in cars. An AR HUD projects digital information onto the windshield, superimposing graphics onto the real world view so that you don’t have to look away from the road[86][87]. In this article, we’ll explore how AR heads-up displays work, what benefits they offer, and how luxury cars are already adopting this tech to enhance driving.