Vantrue P1 Portable CarPlay Screen with Backup Camera: features and fit

The Vantrue P1 is a portable 7-inch touchscreen that sits on the dashboard and adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to a car that lacks them. It also includes a rear-view camera. Because it plugs in rather than being built into the dash, it is designed for people who do not want to remove the console. This overview explains how it works and what to confirm for your vehicle.

Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto

Vantrue says the P1 connects wirelessly to nearly all Android and iOS phones. Once paired, it shows the phone's navigation, music and messaging apps on the larger screen. The listing mentions that video up to 1080P can be played, and says that it works whether you are travelling or parked. Wireless connections are handy for short trips, since the phone does not need to be plugged in each time, although it will still use battery power.

The 7-inch IPS display

The screen is a 7-inch IPS touch display. IPS panels typically keep their colour and brightness from wider viewing angles, which matters for a screen that is off to the side of the driver. Vantrue says the size gives a clear view of maps without blocking the windscreen as a larger display might. It lists support for map apps such as Google Maps and Waze, and says navigation can be started by voice.

Voice control

Siri and Google Assistant are both supported. Voice commands can play music, start navigation, send messages and place calls, which lets the driver keep their eyes on the road. As always, follow local laws on using devices while driving.

Audio: FM, Bluetooth, AUX

The P1 sends sound to your car in several ways. With FM transmission, you tune the car's radio to a free frequency matching the unit's transmitter. Bluetooth and AUX connections are also listed, and audio plays through the car's original speakers. FM transmission can pick up interference in busy radio areas, so a wired AUX connection is often the cleaner option if your car has the socket.

170° rear camera

A 1080P adjustable backup camera with a 170-degree view is included. According to Vantrue, when you reverse, the screen automatically switches to the camera image. It can also be pointed inside the car, for example at a child seat or pet. Vantrue states clearly that the camera is for reversing assistance and rear observation only, not for recording. Cameras are an aid; always look around the vehicle as well.

Mounting and installation

The unit is plug-and-play, so no dismantling of the console is required. It sits on a flexible base that Vantrue calls an octopus-leg base, and has 360° adjustable mounts, which suit most dashboards. Vantrue lists cars, SUVs, vans and pickups as compatible. The listed dimensions are 7.2 x 5.2 x 2.9 inches. You will need to route the camera cable to the rear of the vehicle and arrange the power cable, so allow time for that.

Support

Vantrue states an extendable 18-month quality assurance and email support within 24 hours.

Who it suits

It suits drivers of older cars without a smartphone-linked screen, people who share one device between vehicles and anyone who wants a rear camera added. If your car already has CarPlay or Android Auto, there is little reason to add another screen.

What to check before you buy

• Audio route: check that your car has an AUX input or a usable FM frequency.
• Dashboard space: make sure the 7-inch unit fits without blocking vents, gauges or your view.
• Power: check that your car has a socket for the supplied power cable.
• Camera cabling: allow for running the rear camera cable.
• Phone compatibility: confirm your phone supports wireless CarPlay or Android Auto.
• Local rules: screens on the dashboard and camera use are regulated in some places.

The short version

• A portable 7-inch IPS touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Siri and Google Assistant voice control.
• Audio through FM, Bluetooth or AUX via the car's speakers.
• 1080P rear camera with a 170° view; for reversing, not recording.
• Plug-and-play with an adjustable dashboard base.

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