Hi Mark,

Thanks for introducing me to the forum, glad you like the Android upgrade for the Porsche PCM.

I'm creating an FAQ video so you can see the answers come to life on the system, but here are a few more responses to your questions:-


1) is the launcher you are using themeable? If not can the user replace the launcher with one of their choosing?

Yes, the launcher can be changed to any popular Android Launcher, many of which are themeable. The standard launcher is heavily customizable.

2) Is there any plan to update the hardware past Lollipop?

Yes, but it would mean replacing the hardware of course. This would likely be a few years away, once Apps stop supporting Lollipop for example. For now Lollipop works well for what we want the unit to do.

3) where do the GPS antenna and microphone get installed?

The GPS antenna is installed under the centre console storage area, as this is optimised for reception by Porsche (mobile and GPS). I'm yet to find a microphone that works well, for some reason they just pick up too much background noise to make them accurate. I can supply a microphone but I recommend against using it unfortunately. I'll continue trialing microphone suppliers but for now it's a bit hit and miss. If you do decide to install, get it as close to your mouth as possible, up on the A-pillar.

4) how do you access the USB port for updates?

I run the an extrenal USB cable into the back of the glove box. There are already factory holes to run the cable, so no cutting or drilling is required for this (nor for any of the install - no modifications to the vehicle are required).

5) how much RAM and storage does the unit have?

Stock is 2GB DDR3 and 16gb SD. The system comes with an inbuilt SD Card reader to provide additional storage, I recommend expanding the memory by at least 128gb SDcard for media and music.

6) if you are listening to a podcast or audiobook through Android and you press the volume when on the steering wheel, does it just mute the sounds, or does it mute and pause? My car mutes and pauses through Bluetooth, but my wife’s car only mutes through Android Auto and it is infuriating.

Yes it does, mute and pause. If you scroll up the volume goes up, etc.

7) When you turn on the car how long does it take the Android system to boot up?

Approx 1minute to fully boot, depending on how many apps you have installed and running background services. 1min includes average apps like Spotify and Waze. It's fully booted by the time you've backed out of the garage and down the driveway.

A bonus question and answer:

Q: What happens when you put the car in reverse? Does the stock reverse camera engage?
A: Yes, the stock reverse camera is compatible and engages. The screen switches from Android to the stock PCM reverse camera. Once you got back into Drive or 1st, the screen switches back to Android.

I’ve been watching this space for quite a while but all of the options have been a little sketchy. Finally SDK Autos out of Australia looks like they’ve put together a decent package. The tech coupled with someone who actually speaks English as a first language gives me much more confidence.

I’ve been emailing back and forth with Scott to get some questions answered. He sent me a list of FAQs which I’ll post below. He has a second video that is an of an earlier version but which also walks through a lot of interface questions. He quoted $750usd +shipping. Let me know what you guys think. I’d like to get an installation video too just to see what I’m in for.

I’m going to get try to get Scott to come here to answer questions so he only has to do so once and we will all benefit.

Here’s the FAQ:

What does it do?
It's an Android Control Unit, that runs Android like a Smartphone or Tablet, it is adapted to work for a Porsche - with LVDS (Porsche Screen) in and out and Porsche specific jumpers and software. It runs via Bluetooth so all of your steering controls work, as does the digital display. It uses the car built-in Wifi for internet so I recommend buying a pre-paid SIM, or you can run it off a hotspot on your phone. It also has it's own GPS antenna for greater accuracy than stock. It's full Android, not just Android Auto so you can run any Android App with full functionality. Supplied with all hardware required and installation instructions and videos. And it works with the stock Porsche touch screen. The unit sits behind the PCM, no modification required and it all looks completely stock once complete and you still have access to all of the default PCM functions.


How do you install?
I provide instructions and videos with each unit but with a bit of experience, the install process is quite straightforward. Disconnect the car’s battery. It requires removal of the PCM (4 hex nuts), connecting the harness in 2 places (plug in/plug out) and clipping into the PCM power, earth and ignition lines at the back of the PCM. Place the GPS antenna under the glovebox and run the connecting cable along the bottom of the centre console (out of sight). Reconnect the battery and test the unit. Once the test is complete, disconnect the battery again. Mount the Android Control Unit to PCM via 3M tape (supplied) and reinstall the PCM back into the car and screw the PCM back in place. Reconnect the battery and enjoy Android in your Porsche!


What tools are required?
Tools required are a plastic Trim Removal tool (don't use a flathead screwdriver on your Porsche ) and a hex key set. A screwdriver set is handy but not technically required.


How long does it take to install?
Installation is approx 1.5hours for an inexperienced installer, 45mins for an old hat.


What is supplied?
All hardware including the Android Control Unit, Wiring and Harness, GPS Antenna, Microphone, Wiring Intercept Plugs.


If I’m using the Android interface and I get a call on my mobile paired to PCM what happens?
You Pair your phone (Android or iPhone) to the "Phone" on the PCM via Bluetooth as you normally would. You Pair the Android Unit that I supply to the Media Source via Bluetooth.
That way, the car retains all normal phone functionality and "rings" as normal, the call information appears on the instrument Binnacle on the Dashboard, your call contacts and SMS appear on the Porsche PCM as normal, etc.

Can I use my own SIM card in the Porsche?
Yes you use your own SIM (eg a 2nd line on your mobile plan) in the Porsche to provide the wifi in the car. The Porsche wifi will work with any SIM. You can hotspot off your mobile but running it off the Porsche wifi, with its own SIM, is recommended.

Do you ship to the US?
Yes but it can take a few weeks to ship.

Where are you located?
Sydney, Australia.

Will it void my Warranty?
It is fully reversible but may affect the warranty of the PCM unit (not the entire car), however it largely depends on your dealership, most of them are very reasonable when it comes to stereo equipment.

What issue may be encountered?
An incorrect installation will likely blow the 7.5amp fuse located in the fuse box in the passenger footwell (drivers side for RHD drive cars, left hand side for LHD cars). If this occurs, remove the unit, install a new fuse before attempting to re-install.

How do you switch between the OEM PCM interface to the Android?
Hold the "Nav" button on the PCM to switch between Android and Stock OEM PCM Interface. You can switch back and forth with ease.

What version of Android and how is it updated?
Android 5.1.1(Lollipop), updates via USB and apps update via Google Play Store.

Can I install any Android Apps on it?
Yes you can, any App that is compatible with Android. Waze, Google Maps, Gmail, Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, Chrome, etc.

How do you want to make a transaction?
- PayPal, happy to use Buyer Protection for your piece of mind.

Can I have it installed for me?
If the car is in Sydney Australia, yes you can.

How much does the unit cost?
Pricing is $1000USD including shipping.

Any other questions, just let me know.

Best,
Scott

 

Thanks for all the answers Scott. Can you please confirm the versions of PCM that this is compatible with?

 

Thanks Mark. I searched for another forum entry for this and didn't find it.

 

Hi folks. Just in case anyone has been waiting for a mod to add Android to their Macan or other PCM. SDK Autos out of Australia finally has units and installation videos starting to go up. I ordered mine today. It's essentially a Android box you add behind the PCM that has LVDS in and out and Porsche specific jumpers and software. Scott from SDK was very responsive to my questions. It's full Android, not Auto. I'm looking forward to getting this installed!

 

Hi folks. Just in case anyone has been waiting for a mod to add Android to their Macan or other PCM. SDK Autos out of Australia finally has units and installation videos starting to go up. I ordered mine today.

I'm VERY interested. I'll be curious to hear your opinion after install.

 

Keep us posted on install and how it works for you. Good find!

 

VERY interesting. I am actually getting a VIM module delivered today and this is far superior. Contacted him with a few questions.

 

Looks pretty sweet for us Android users and cheaper + more robust than paying for their Apple integration IMO.

 

There is another thread about this topic where Scott has provided a lot of answers to questions. You can find it here: https://www.macanforum.com/forum/electronics/169035-new-android-based-infotainment-option.html

Perhaps @grim can merge them?

 

Looks like the price has gone up. I was quoted $1400 shipped. This is a bit steep since Android headunits with a screen are $200-400. I have full Android head units in other cars, but I rarely ever use it for anything other than VIM for music videos. If I need Waze, it's displayed on my phone.
For anyone that's curious, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend an Android OS head unit. If you like to tinker, Android will let you do anything your mind dreams. I've used Android head units for many years and they're great.

Also from the FAQ, sounds like they have worked out all the important nuances like retaining PCM functionality, using onboard GPS / SIM, and switching to reverse camera.

Good luck to the developers.

 

@Tamporter possibly he quoted you in aud? 1400 aud = almost exactly 1000 usd

 

I love tech features in cars, etc. but in this instance call me a Luddite. I don’t even bother with Apple car play. A grand to connect an inferior op system like android to a car? Wow. I think a Cobb or the other tuner would be a way more fun way to drop that kind of ‘scarole.

 

Android vs pcm 3.1 notwithstanding (I think pcm 3.1 is generally poor to average in user interface, and Android is far superior in ease of use, customization, etc,) simply having waze is worth 1k plus minus to me.

I use aha to enable Google search, and the connectivity is fairly spastic at the best of times. Also, I don't have real time traffic unless I give my car its own Sim. Android via wifi would be revelatory, and I'm very much thinking about this.

That said, I already have the car chipped, so....

 

Received today! I hope to work on it this weekend but Sunday cycling weather might keep me otherwise occupied!

 

I understand that! Any time you can go for a ride in February you have to take advantage of it. The only thing I’m seeing recently is the screen on my Peloton.
Make sure you take lots of pictures of your install to help those that will follow in your footsteps!

 

OK, so today was the day to finally install the Android mod. Unfortunately, the video instructions state that just removing the trim is necessary to get to the radio bolts. This is not the case for the Macan. You have to remove the AC vents. I tried and only managed to dislocate 3 of the horizontal louvers in the process. So now I have to figure out how to reattach those and I'm out close to $1000 for the unit, additional components, etc. Major bummer.

 

You busted the vents will need replacements. You need to get a hook tool and pull on the back of the vent. There are some posts on here on how to remove glove compartment etc see those posts for how to.

 

I've finally managed to remove my PCM! I just can't find where to connect the power and ground. Scott's instructions lack detail on that piece and I can't find a wiring diagram for that power harness on the MIB. Anyone happen to have a wiring diagram?

 

OK, disregard previous. I took a chance on 12V vs GRD and got it right

 

Can you use Google Assistant on the Android PCM? And does simply saying OK Google trigger it?

 

I forgot to install the microphone but I'm sure it would. I have a USB cable routed to the glove box. I might try a USB microphone before I open up the dash again, although it's not a difficult process other than the really scary feeling of yanking the AC vents out. I use google assistant mainly for Spotify control but can do without for now.

 

Done!

 

Not sure why the images are sideways when uploaded but you get the idea...

 

Wow. Please make a youtube video of it in action.

 

https://www.dropbox.com/s/wdzzxg87hy206k5/Android%20for%20Porsche%20PCM.mp4?dl=0

I shared the video on dropbox, the video quality is much better than on youtube. Youtube link is

 

What are you using for data connection? Are you hot spotting your phone or did you get a sim card?

 

My Macan doesn't have a SIM slot. I started off using my phone hotspot with a Macro running to turn the hotspot on as BT connected. I ended up putting a dedicated MiFi in the car to share my unlimited data VZW plan. It's working out well.

 

Thanks so much for posting your updates! Any additional info you can give us on how to remove the trim to remove the PCM on the Macan would be VERY helpful to us all.
You've been using it a few weeks now, how about a review of the unit, how it operates and how it interfaces with the rest of the Porsche system?

 

@RMDC

Thanks for your work and for sharing the results here. I would be all over this if it was not a stand alone Android instance. What I really want is a module that simply adds Android Auto running from my phone. To me this would be much more simple and would take away the need for yet another data connection. If any company releases that they can take my money!

 

You can also run Android Auto on this unit - you can download and install Android Auto from the Google App Store within the unit and use it as the main Operating System.

Unlike most vehicles with Android Auto integrated from the factory, with our system you can download and updated Android Auto (from the Google Apps Store) and keep up to date with the latest versions. Google are releasing a lot of updates to Android Auto at the moment, so this is a nice benefit.

 

That's also what I'm looking for....

 

Hi guys,

We've just released the latest version of Porsche Android 2.0.

We're shipping out the new units next week.

Head on over to our web site to check it out

 

Thanks Scott. You answered a lot of out questions here previously, thanks.
Can you tell us what specifically has changed with v2.0?
Also, the one question that wasn't answered before was how the microphone works (OK, Google?) and where it is installed.
What is the pricing info for v2.0?
In you video you said it has Lolipop, but on your website I believe it says Nougat. Which is correct?
Thanks.