Transform Your Car’s Infotainment System into a Smart TV with This $60 USB Gadget
Modern vehicles often feature impressive infotainment displays, but not all provide streaming capabilities. The CarlinKit FireDrive Link Pro is a $60 USB gadget designed to transform your car’s infotainment system into a Smart TV. This can be achieved whether you have a large display or a standard screen.
Key Features of CarlinKit FireDrive Link Pro
This innovative device is compatible with wired CarPlay systems in various vehicle brands, including:
- Audi
- Nissan
- Volvo
- Chevy
- Ford
- Porsche
- Mazda
The FireDrive comes equipped with a specialized power/data “Y” cable, which divides into three USB connections. This configuration allows users to maximize their car’s USB port for multiple functions, including:
- Powering dash cams
- Updating firmware
Setup and Usability
To utilize the FireDrive, connect the longer segment of the “Y” cable to the car’s power supply, the shorter segment to the CarPlay port, and the third USB-C connection to your device. A Fire TV Stick, sold separately, is plugged into the HDMI port on the FireDrive. This setup enables users to stream content directly onto their vehicle’s display.
Additionally, the FireDrive allows for the conversion of a wired CarPlay system to a wireless experience via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Users need either a phone hotspot or their vehicle’s internet to access online content. Local media can be accessed with a custom launcher if an internet connection is not available.
User Feedback and Performance
The CarlinKit FireDrive Link Pro has garnered over 70 reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. More than half of the reviews are positive, indicating a good user experience. However, users have reported mixed results regarding setup difficulties.
Some users encountered challenges such as:
- Connection drops
- Navigation and volume issues
For example, a 2025 Camry owner praised the straightforward installation but required a workaround to connect to the device’s IP address. Although some users faced obstacles, most found the device performed as promised once configured properly.
Considerations Before Purchase
While the FireDrive specifically supports Amazon Fire TV Sticks, it may not work with other HDMI-compatible devices. Therefore, users who don’t own a Fire TV Stick will need to purchase one separately, increasing the overall investment in this gadget.
In conclusion, for $60, the CarlinKit FireDrive Link Pro offers a unique opportunity to enhance your vehicle’s infotainment system. If you’re looking to enjoy streaming content on the go, this device may be worth considering.
