Portable Apple CarPlay screens: An inexpensive workaround for older cars and new EV owners

Some automakers, notably GM, are eliminating CarPlay and Android Auto from their electric vehicles, encouraging drivers to use their own infotainment systems. Engadget says a portable screen ends up being a good way to get around this. The screens cost far less than a new car, with many priced under $50 and even a more expensive model at around $150 still cheaper than an upgrade. Very cheap units are best to avoid because they often have poor touchscreens. Buyers should choose the screen size carefully; most range from 6 to 11 inches, and some users find large screens too distracting, while smaller ones are easier to fit in the car.

Resolution matters for readability, the guide says. Portable screens with very low resolution make everything from text to icons look terrible, so Engadget recommends looking for a display of at least 720p. Since most of these screens have weak speakers, buyers should ensure the device supports audio output through AUX, Bluetooth or FM transmission. Wireless CarPlay is also important, because not every portable screen lets you use CarPlay without a cable.

Several portable CarPlay screens come with extra features that can increase their value. Some models include an integrated dash camera with microSD loop recording, and others offer a rear camera for adding parking assistance to an older car. The mount should be checked, as some units have unstable mounts that could fail during a turn. Some screens also have Android built in, which is not required for CarPlay but allows installing apps that run without an iPhone.

The Engadget guide concludes that a portable screen is an easy way to get CarPlay in a vehicle that lacks it, and that it is cheaper than retrofitting the car's built-in system. While the screen may not look like a factory system, it still offers a good deal at the price.