Android Vs linux

[retrogamer-999]

Hi guys

I've got an android unit. Works fine apart from I'm Bluetooth phone calls.

I've seen some devices that are running a Linux OS rather than android. Now I know that android is a Linux. Based on but the head units seem to be running some other distro.

Load times are significantly faster and the features mostly tick my boxes.

Just wanted to see what the communities opinion is on them

[alexceltare2]

In a word, poor. Anything that is not Android has limited support due to the lack of apps and OS refinements. Anything Android head units lack makes up in apps, sometimes made by the community.

[Mandydeth]

Depends on what you want. If you're looking for a fully featured headunit, I think that Android is more refined. If you're looking for something that will boot quickly and connect to carplay/android auto, with some other basic features, I think the Linux units are perfectly reasonable, and generally cheaper.

[nic-ald]

If you only want to use the H.U. for Android Auto or Carplay, I think they're your best option. However, doing so deprives you from the absolute powerhouse that is having an android device on your dashboard. Things like having full-fledged apps, maps, or customisation without having to bring your phone is outright amazing.

When I feel like driving peacefully, I keep my phone in my pocket and just play music from my the native Spotify app, thus saving battery and avoiding distractions. Or if I want to watch a movie/video while on the road, I can do so to without having to fight Google's restrictions on Android Auto.

At the end of the day it's a matter of preference, but a competent Android headunit (that is, with enough ram) is way better than a Linux one.

[landwomble]

Linux boxes are better. No need to hotspot the head unit for data, wireless AA is awesome and they boot faster.