When you talk about adapters for wireless Android Auto or CarPlay there is easily one name to recommend: BINIZE, which we have already talked about here on the blog, and today I'm talking to you about the new 2-in-1 dongle, a reliable product that won't let you down, but above all an accessory that costs little and that promises to work without problems.
This accessory doesn't seem to have a specific name, in fact no particular name or identifying acronym emerges from the packaging, but that's no big deal because we're interested in the product and the contents of the box, which specifically contains a multilingual instruction manual including Italian, the USB dongle and a USB-A to Type-C extension cable so you can use the product with both more modern and older cars.
Pairing is a breeze. Once you've inserted the accessory into your car's CarPlay port (the vehicle must be compatible with wired CarPlay, meaning the port must be enabled for data exchange, not just charging), simply connect to the dongle via Bluetooth. After Bluetooth pairing, the device automatically switches to Wi-Fi for CarPlay/Android Auto. After waiting about 10 seconds, CarPlay (or Android Auto) appears on the car's display.
The BINIZE dongle features a small LED that indicates it is working, but above all, I appreciated that the USB-A connector is gold-plated, which translates into better data transfer, which inevitably has a positive impact on both the connection and the quality of streaming and calls.
Everything works well, without any issues, and with a fluidity comparable to the wired version. The adapter's body is ultra-compact and lightweight, designed to not clutter the center console area. The glossy finish makes it unobtrusive from the outside and suitable even for minimalist interiors. Furthermore, BINIZE recommends checking for any available firmware updates for the device and applying them, although in my case it wasn't necessary: the unit was already used straight away, without the need for an upgrade. To perform the updates, once you've connected your smartphone to the dongle, simply go to 192.168.1.101.
Naturally, the options and applications are the same as the wired version, without any distinction, so you can't install additional apps—at least not on the device, but only on your smartphone, provided they're compatible with Android infotainment or CarPlay. That said, both steering wheel controls and any car navigation dials are supported, without any compromises. Boot-up times from a stationary vehicle are in the order of ten seconds, with quick and automatic connection every time.
The screen responds to touch without any perceptible delay, scrolling through maps and menus was instant, and even animations were snappy. We launched music playlists, podcasts, and GPS navigation without any hiccups. On the audio front, both for phone calls and music streaming, I didn't notice any significant differences compared to the wired connection. The sound quality is excellent and the audio latency is very low, practically imperceptible to the human ear.
Ultimately, I highly recommend the BINIZE 2-in-1 dongle, especially to anyone who hates cluttered cables and wants to drive without worrying about their device's battery dying at any moment due to constant plugging and unplugging. This adapter truly improves the quality of life in the car. After a few days, you'll forget it's there because it just works and you don't have to do anything to pair your smartphone, other than keeping Bluetooth turned on.
