I really wanted to do a custom HU build with a Nexus 7 (note: I am a software engineer and an Android fan and I'd reccommend one of the nexus tablets hands down, straight from Google) My idea was to install a cheap $120 single-din (bluetooth and HD radio) HU, and have it inset an inch and a half into the HU hole. Then Get the Nexus 7 charging dock which has an audio line out, and build a custom plastic suround that would place the dock up front in the hole, removing the nexus 7 from the dock would expose the single din HU, and placing it on would make a nice flush clean look on the dash. The nuxus dock would plug into the HU with the 3.5mm line. This idea would allow the steeringwheel controls to still work with the HU (they would change the source from nexus line in to radio to bluetooth in or cd) And the volume would work. Plus you get a built in 20w rms amplifier in the HU. Buuut I just don't have the time or skill know-how to do that, so I went with the Pioneer x-3500bhs. 2 hour super easy install.
I have been looking at the Nexus 7 more and more. I wasn't aware they now offered one with ATT 3G support. I have measured out and the iPad mini won't fit without modification to the original dash, and it looks like a double DIN bracket and a Nexus would be ideal for size. I thought about the same thing since removing the stock HU will leave just a huge hole behind the tablet, and I could use the steering wheel controls instead of hacking into a nexus just to allow a manual volume controller. The only other option I saw was a mini amp with an inline volume knob. We will see, I am still trying to piece together all the parts to see the cost and what I will gain, and what I will lose.
I'm contemplating upgrades in this area too. I have an ASUS Transformer Infinity that I was thinking about somehow mounting in front of the steering wheel. Because the dash is off-center, the tablet would fit well on the dash. The steering wheel might partially obscure the screen though. The problem here is mounting the unit. I haven't seen mounts that work in that area specifically and have a hard time telling if something can be adapted. A ram mount system might work, but it would be cloodgy and require a a suction cup on the windshield and a long extension and probably scratch up the dash from vibrating... Another solution I'm thinking of is a double-din touch monitor and a tiny 12v computer running linux mounted behind the glovebox. Yet a third solution is a double-din aftermarket stereo with a touch screen that has an aux video input. With this solution, I could still build a tiny computer and use the head unit as a monitor. I'm searching for head units that might allow this. I'd love to see what you folks decide on. Personally, i'm leaning towards the head unit with a monitor. I've always wanted a desktop computer in the car, so that would be an option.
I'd love for my nexus to be a replacement for the head unit. Does anyone know if this has been done? Nexus 7 ? HD
It's not on a Prius, but Soundwaves of Tampa did it on a Jetta. There's a Sony HU behind the tablet, and it retains the steering wheel controls. Probably a nightmare for DIY, but it seems possible.
I'm using a Galaxy Tab 3 8 with mine, and the steering wheel controls work on both google music and Spotify. The only drawback is that there is an audio delay of about 1/4 second for the Bluetooth
I'm rolling with the Galaxy Tab 4.8 with a Pioneer Bluetooth.... Still trying to solve the Tab placement...I just pulled the factory head...
