Let’s be honest, modern cars have come a long way with their infotainment systems, but for many, the built-in solutions still feel a bit… basic. You’ve got CarPlay or Android Auto, sure, but what if you want to stream Netflix, run a full suite of Android apps, or keep the kids entertained with movies on a rear screen, all without a spaghetti of cables?Â
If you’re nodding your head, then the CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 Multimedia AI Box might just be the upgrade you’ve been dreaming of. This compact, plug-and-play device promises to transform your vehicle’s infotainment system into a smart, connected multimedia hub, bringing the full Android 13 experience, 4K streaming, and true wireless phone mirroring right to your dashboard.
What Is It?
The CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 is a multimedia AI box designed to supercharge your car’s existing infotainment system. It essentially runs a full Android 13 operating system, giving you access to the Google Play Store, seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 4K video streaming capabilities. It’s built to bypass the limitations of standard car systems, offering an all-in-one solution for advanced in-car entertainment and connectivity.
Design and Features
The design of the CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 is refreshingly minimal. It’s a small, compact, and lightweight box that blends unobtrusively into your dashboard, making it hardly noticeable. Its sleek housing incorporates ventilation slots, which is a thoughtful touch to prevent overheating during extended use.
Under the hood, this AI box is a powerhouse. It’s driven by a Snapdragon 6125 octa-core processor with an Adreno GPU, running the latest Android 13 operating system. This means ultra-fast app launches, lag-free multitasking, and improved app compatibility. With 8GB of RAM and a substantial 128GB of built-in storage, expandable up to 512GB via a MicroSD card, you’ve got ample space for all your apps, movies, and music.
Connectivity is a strong suit, too. It supports true wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, finally letting you ditch those frustrating cables. For standalone use, it boasts built-in 4G LTE cellular support (with a SIM card slot for mobile data), dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), and integrated GPS navigation.
But where it truly stands out for entertainment is its 4K video streaming capability, running apps like YouTube, Netflix, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video natively through Google Play Access. And for the audiophiles, the Qualcomm WCD9385 audio decoder delivers 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res audio in perfect sync with visuals.
One of its most compelling features, especially for families, is the dual HDMI outputs, including a Micro HDMI port, which allows for simultaneous video playback on both front and rear screens. This should offer plenty of peace on long road trips! One issue I did run across is the microSD and SIM slot lack springs or orientation labels? I had a hard time not only getting them in and out of the inputs, but also if I was doing damage to the unit with them not properly aligned.
Performance
The CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 truly shines in its real-world performance. The plug-and-play setup is genuinely simple; just connect it to your car’s USB port, and your dashboard is upgraded in minutes – no rewiring or professional installation needed. Boot-up times are swift, typically taking around 18–30 seconds, though this can vary slightly depending on your car model.
Once it’s running, the CARLUEX OS 2.0, built on Android 13, presents an attractive, vibrant, and highly customizable user interface. The reviewer noted it’s one of the best-looking layouts they’ve tested, with clear icons and a thoughtful design. Multitasking is a breeze with its split-screen mode, allowing you to run navigation and streaming apps side-by-side, which is incredibly useful.
Wireless Apple CarPlay connects quickly and appears full-screen, providing a seamless extension of your iPhone. Wireless Android Auto also connects quickly, though it was observed not to always utilize the full screen, sometimes displaying black bars on the sides.
Streaming performance for services like Netflix, YouTube, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video is excellent, with crisp 4K video quality. The audio quality is generally good, though one reviewer did encounter an unexplained audio issue with a local TV app. While the device handles 4K video playback from its SD card at 24fps or 30fps smoothly, attempting 4K at 60fps did result in choppiness and dropped frames.
Overall system performance is smooth and largely lag-free, thanks to that Snapdragon chip. However, a minor quibble noted was occasionally needing multiple touches for a response and finding certain settings (like manual time zone adjustment) a bit tedious to navigate. The device can also get warm with prolonged use, though the ventilation helps. (excuse my old Jeep’s dash condition)
A crucial safety reminder: While the device allows video playback while driving, exercising discipline is paramount. Drivers should never watch videos in motion; this feature is primarily intended for passengers or when the vehicle is safely parked.
The CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 is compatible with over 800 CarPlay-enabled car models from 2016-2024, supporting iPhones 5 or higher and Android 6.0 or higher devices. It’s important to note, however, that it is not compatible with BMW wired CarPlay models.
Upgrade beyond standard infotainment with the CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0. This plug-and-play AI box delivers true wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, immersive 4K streaming, and a full Android 13 system, effortlessly transforming your vehicle into a next-level entertainment hub for the whole family.
Price
The CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 is generally priced at $269 USD, though it’s often available with promotional discounts, sometimes as low as $215 for the device or $244 for a full accessory bundle. You can purchase the CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 directly from the Carluex website.
Final Thoughts
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
The CARLUEX PRO+ 2.0 Multimedia AI Box is far more than just another car accessory; it’s a genuine transformation for your car’s infotainment system. It delivers a modern, feature-rich Android experience that seamlessly integrates advanced entertainment and connectivity into a compact, user-friendly package. While there are minor kinks to iron out, like occasional UI responsiveness or 4K 60fps local playback, its overall performance, ease of use, and comprehensive feature set make it a highly recommended upgrade for anyone looking to truly future-proof their ride.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a family on long road trips, or a ride-share driver looking to enhance the passenger experience, the PRO+ 2.0 offers next-level convenience and entertainment that makes every journey more enjoyable. It’s a niche market, but the PRO+2.0 adds real functionality that a small amount of users may be looking for in the car.
