CarPlay and Android Auto are projection interfaces (not full operating systems) that mirror approved apps from your phone to the vehicle’s screen. Only a limited selection of specially developed apps are supported. These platforms have strict limitations for navigation and are costly and complex to develop for - especially for locally developed Australian apps - so not only will you find that
ExplorOz Traveller is unsupported, neither is Hema, Wikicamps and others.
However, there is a solution using an AI Box (Android Interface) adapter. The guide below explains how it works.
The Simple Workaround: AI Box Adapters
For between $250 - $350, you can purchase an Android Interface adapter for use with CarPlay/Android Auto headunits. These clever devices plug into a port at the front of your vehicle’s headunit and launch a full Android operating system on your vehicle’s screen - essentially turning it into an Android tablet. Best of all, you retain use of your regular CarPlay or Android Auto interface at any time. This solution allows you to install and run the
ExplorOz Traveller app (requires purchase of Android version; access other Android apps like Netflix, YouTube, web browsers, and more; plus you'll keep using your factory headunit without any permanent modifications. Even if you're an Apple user, you can still use an Android Interface Box Adapter, as it operates independently of your phone once connected. Apps are installed on the adapter, not your phone or headunit.
The AI adapter is portable, so you can move it between vehicles – making it a flexible and future-proof solution.
What AI Box to Buy
We recommend using an AI Box from
Smart World, an Australian company located in
Sydney offering solutions designed to work with a wide range of the latest factory-fitted infotainment systems – including both wired and wireless setups. Their units offer full Android OS functionality on your vehicle's screen; Compatibility with wireless and wired CarPlay/Android Auto, Free shipping, Australian local service/support and Pre-sales assistance to help choose the right model for your vehicle. TIP:
check if your headunit offers Wired or Wireless CarPlay integration then select the matching wired or wireless adapter.
SmartWorld also offer additional solutions including headunits for vehicles without an existing CarPlay/AA infotainment system and dedicated systems for motorbikes. We have secured discounts exclusively for ExplorOz customers via the referral link, plus we have prepared video tutorials.
Use this referral link to Smart World to view pricing and all product options:
Smart World App2Car Solutions.
Alternative Option: CarLinkKit (Wired CarPlay/AAuto only)
For the past few years, we’ve initially recommended the CarLinkKit TBox, which has been
well received. However, one of the limitations with the CarLinkKit is it’s ONLY compatible with wired CarPlay systems and now with many wireless CarPlay headunits it may not suit all buyers. Since this unit ships from China there is approx. a 10-day delivery to Australia, and unlike the SmartWorld solution, it comes with minimal setup instructions and no local support. This option is slightly cheaper than the units available locally from Smartworld. We offer these as suggestions and ultimately the choice is yours. Use our
Discount Referral to CarLinkit.
Known Compatibility Issues with CarLinkKit
If your vehicle is listed below, it may experience limited or inconsistent functionality with CarLinkKit:-
Toyota Land Cruiser (especially models prior to 2020), Toyota Hilux (2015–2020) and new 2025 models, Mitsubishi Pajero (up to 2019), Ford
Ranger (pre-2022 models), Nissan Navara (D40 and early D23 series), Isuzu D-Max (2012–2025), Jeep Wrangler (notably the JK series and some early JL models), Suzuki Jimny (2019–2021, depending on the head unit), BYD Shark and Sealion 2025, LDV T60, D90 , G10, GWM Cannon, Ssangyong Torres and Actyon 2024 and 2025, MG all models, All car models without CarPlay inbuilt from factory.
Full Android Headunits
If your vehicle uses an aftermarket Android headunit (such as those from Vhedia, T'eyes, Polaris, or ECOffroad), there’s no issue. These units already run a full Android operating system, giving you direct access to the Google Play Store where you can easily download and install the
ExplorOz Traveller app. Depending on the device, they may or maynot offer CarPlay/Android Auto.
Portable Display Options
If your vehicle currently doesn't have a navigation headunit, or you're looking to upgrade, or want a more portable solution, take a look at the new SmartWorld App2Car Display. This is an all-in-one solution combining a full Android headunit with CarPlay/Android Auto functionality and is the most cost-effective and practical solution we've come across because it doesn't require removal of your existing stereo and doesn't come with the heavy price tag of buying a full Android headunit which could be upwards of $1500 to even $4000 after professional installation by an auto electrician. This portable display is approx 10" wide, comes with its own dash-mount and with it's slimline size is perhaps more appealing and practical than attempting to mount a full size tablet or iPad and at this very affordable price is a great option. The ExplorOz Team have been testing this unit since June 2025 and are currently impressed with our initial testing. Use our referral link to:
Smart World App2Car Display.
Watch the short 1 minute demonstration video below.
After you receive your unit, follow this link for
Full Installation Instructions (15 minutes)
All-in-one Device for Motorbikes
For motorbike solutions, see
SmartWorld Motorbike App2Bike Display. This unit is a rugged, waterproof smart display designed specifically for motorbikes. This unit allows you to install and run the
ExplorOz Traveller app right on your handlebars for real-time navigation and adventure tracking. No additional AI box required - this unit is fully capable with a full Android operating system (ready to install
ExplorOz Traveller) and full CarPlay/Android Auto functionality. Full specs and details follow the link above.