Volvo SPA 2016~22 – Android Auto/Apple CarPlay fullscreen wireless module | SwedeSpeed

Hi everyone,
I’ve seen a few questions here in the group about Android Auto in full screen mode for Volvo SPA 2016-2022. I recently got back to the topic because I got information from an ISUDAR representative that they have released an updated module:
ISUDAR V2 Upgrade Sensus Full Screen Apple Carplay AA Kit Module for Volvo XC90/XC60/XC40/S90/S60/V60 Seamless Connectivity

Here’s my experience with the product:
Order and delivery: I ordered the device on March 16th and it arrived on March 27th. It was shipped from an EU warehouse to Poland.
The user manual:

• Lacks instructions on how to disassemble the Volvo Sensus system in the S90, especially with additional elements and dashboard decorations. The disassembly process is more complicated in this case. Fortunately, a helpful video on YouTube called “Volvo V90 (2017-) LCD screen removal (Sensus Connect 8.7)” can guide you through the process.
• Does not include cable ties, which are useful for securing excess cables.

WiFi antenna:

• The manual does not specify where to mount the WiFi antenna, only advising not to place it on metal elements. I mounted it above the glove compartment, near the air vent, as shown in the pictures in the Imgur gallery.

Microphone:

• The manual only mentions that a microphone is needed to activate Siri. However, in my case, I had to install a microphone because voice recognition did not work with Android Auto. I placed the microphone near the driver’s knees, at the back of the Volvo Sensus system, also marked in the pictures.

Voice assistant
The voice assistant can be activated in two ways:

• By touching the button on the touchscreen.
• By saying the voice command “Hi Google!”

Please note that the voice assistant cannot be activated using the multimedia button on the steering wheel.

Pairing and connection:

• The pairing and connection process described in the manual is unclear.

1. You need to pair your phone with the car via Bluetooth traditionally (this is necessary for the multimedia buttons on the steering wheel for volume and song switching).
2. Then you need to pair your phone with the “ISUDAR V2 Upgrade Sensus…” network and your phone should automatically connect to the ISUDAR module’s WiFi network.
3. On your phone, you need to authorize the connection to wireless Android Auto.

Full screen Android Auto:

• You can enter dedicated Android Auto in full screen mode by holding your finger on the Volvo Sensus touchscreen or the button below the screen.

Before starting work:

• It is advisable to disconnect the car battery due to potential voltage spikes and interference with the infotainment system. This precaution helps prevent accidental damage and ensures a safer working environment. ⚡

Remember:

• Follow proper safety procedures and consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions on disconnecting the battery.
• It is also worth preparing:
• Pliers (for crimping CAM wires)
• Cable ties (for bundling excess cables)
• Cutters (for cutting excess cable ties and cutting insulation to get to CAM wires)
• Insulating tape (for securing previously cut insulation on CAM wires, securing mistakes or damaged insulation)
• Soft cloths because when disassembling the Volvo Sensus tablet, we have to lay it on the gear stick screen for a moment

Here are some additional resources:

• Link to the gallery with the process and the discussed places of mounting the WiFi antenna and microphone
• I also saw on Kickstarter a project “AutoPro X” with a module that allows you to run any content in the scope of Android Auto drawing (traditionally on half of the screen or with the ISUDAR module in full screen mode) however this is not something I care about

Issues:

1. Microphone Button Issue: When you connect an external microphone, tapping the mic button on the Android Auto touchscreen works as expected. However, the physical multimedia button doesn’t respond properly—it’s unresponsive. This usability concern might impact voice commands.
2. Camera Modes: Good news! The rear camera and 360 camera modes continue to function as before. Consistency is crucial for a seamless driving experience.
3. Drive Style Selector, System Notifications, Parking Aid, Volume, AC and Seats Control: The new Android Auto screen overlay covers the drive style selector and parking aid. You can manually switch it using a gesture (holding your finger on the touchscreen or the physical button under the screen). This feature might take some getting used to.
4. Resolution Concerns: Streets’ names, icons, and fonts appear slightly blurry, it might affect readability. Investigating this further with debugging tools could provide insights.
5. Voice assistant cannot be activated using the multimedia button on the steering wheel

Here is an gallery with screenshots and recording from Android Auto in full screen mode

• size of display: 9 inch
• resolution of screenshot: 530 x 720 px
• pixel density: 99,34 ppi

I hope this information is helpful!
Please let me know if you have any questions.