For years, I struggled with an older vehicle that lacked modern infotainment features, making every drive feel a bit disconnected. Constantly fumbling with my phone for navigation, skipping songs on a tiny screen, or risking glances at incoming messages was not only inconvenient but genuinely unsafe. The absence of seamless smartphone integration meant sacrificing focus on the road, creating a constant dilemma between staying connected and driving responsibly. It was a problem that desperately needed a solution, and investing in a device like the Volam 9” Apple Carplay Screen would have significantly improved my daily commute and long road trips.
Key Considerations Before Investing in a Portable Car Display
Many drivers today face the challenge of owning a perfectly functional vehicle that, while reliable, predates the era of integrated smart connectivity. A portable car display, like a dedicated portable Carplay screen, steps in to bridge this gap, offering a modern infotainment experience without the need for expensive and complex head unit replacements. Such a device solves the problem of outdated navigation systems, limited audio playback options, and the inherent dangers of phone handling while driving.
The ideal customer for a portable car display is someone who values convenience, safety, and modern features but isn’t ready or willing to undertake a major overhaul of their vehicle’s dashboard. This includes owners of older cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and even RVs who want easy access to navigation, music, and communication apps. If you frequently use apps like Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, or make hands-free calls, and your current car stereo lacks these capabilities, then a Carplay screen is a fantastic upgrade.
However, this product category might not be for everyone. If your vehicle already has a fully integrated, factory-installed Apple CarPlay or Android Auto system, then adding an external screen would be redundant. Similarly, if you primarily use your car for very short, infrequent trips where advanced navigation or media isn’t a priority, a simpler, less expensive phone mount might suffice. For those who prioritize a factory-flush look above all else and are willing to invest more, a full head unit replacement might be a better, albeit more involved, option. Before buying, consider the screen size that fits your dashboard without obstructing your view, the connectivity options (wireless is key), audio output methods (AUX, FM, Bluetooth), and whether a backup camera is a necessary addition for your vehicle.
Introducing the Volam 9” Apple Carplay Screen
The Volam 9” Apple Carplay Screen, model RC07, is a portable car display designed to bring the convenience of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to virtually any vehicle. It promises to transform your older car into a modern, connected hub, offering seamless access to your smartphone’s navigation, music, and communication apps directly on a vibrant 9-inch touchscreen. When you purchase this portable carplay screen, the package includes the 9-inch HD unit itself, a suction cup bracket for easy mounting, a car charger (Type-C), a reversing camera with a 5.5m cable, an instruction manual, and a 1.5m AUX cable. Compared to some market leaders that might only offer the display unit, the inclusion of a backup camera right out of the box provides significant added value, setting it apart as a more comprehensive solution for vehicle enhancement. This specific product is ideal for drivers of various vehicle types – cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, trailers, or even hunting vehicles – who desire an easy-to-install, non-permanent upgrade for their infotainment needs. It’s less suited for those with brand-new cars already equipped with advanced systems.
Here’s a quick breakdown of its advantages and a few drawbacks:
Pros:
* Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
* Large, responsive 9-inch HD touchscreen display.
* Included 170° wide-angle backup camera with night vision and IP67 waterproof rating.
* Multiple audio output options: built-in speakers, AUX, FM transmitter, Bluetooth.
* Supports Mirror Link (Airplay/Android Cast) for video streaming.
* Easy DIY installation with suction cup mount.
* Voice assistant support (Siri/Google Assistant).
* Automatic reconnection to phone upon car startup.
Cons:
* Backup camera installation requires some wiring, which might be challenging for novice DIYers.
* While rare, some users reported occasional minor audio connectivity glitches requiring a quick reboot.
* Being a portable, suction-cup mounted screen, it doesn’t offer the fully integrated, flush look of a factory-installed system.
* The screen, while large, could potentially obstruct a small portion of the windshield view depending on mounting location and vehicle type.
Diving Deep into Features and Their Practical Benefits
Having spent considerable time with the Volam RC07, I can genuinely attest to how well its features integrate into the driving experience, making it far more enjoyable and secure. This portable Carplay screen has truly elevated my time behind the wheel.
Seamless Wireless Carplay & Android Auto
The cornerstone of the Volam 9” Apple Carplay Screen is its wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Connecting my phone was surprisingly straightforward – a quick pairing via Bluetooth, and the device handled the Wi-Fi connection automatically. The real magic happens once it’s set up: every time I start my car, my phone automatically connects. No more fumbling with cables or trying to mount my phone in an awkward holder. This wireless capability instantly brings my phone’s essential apps – navigation, music streaming, messaging – directly to the large 9-inch display. The benefit here is immense: less distraction, safer driving, and all your critical information right where you need it, in an interface designed for in-car use. This feature alone dramatically solves the core problem of an outdated infotainment system.
Vivid 9-inch HD Touchscreen Display
The size and quality of the screen are immediately noticeable. The 9-inch HD display is crisp, clear, and the colors are vibrant, making it easy to see maps and app icons even in direct sunlight. This is a significant improvement over smaller, older car screens or trying to navigate on a phone. The touchscreen is very responsive; taps and swipes register instantly with no noticeable lag. I particularly appreciate the split-screen feature, which allows me to view navigation on one side while controlling my music on the other. This enhanced visibility and responsive interaction directly contribute to safer driving by minimizing the time my eyes are off the road and making complex tasks simpler to manage. It truly feels like a modern vehicle’s display, not an aftermarket add-on.
Intelligent Voice Assistant Integration
Both Siri and Google Voice Assistant are fully supported, connecting seamlessly through CarPlay or Android Auto. This feature is a game-changer for safety and convenience. I can simply say “Hey Siri” or “Hey Google” to make calls, send texts, get directions, or change music without ever touching the screen or my phone. The voice recognition is surprisingly accurate, even with background noise. This capability means I can keep my hands on the wheel and my eyes on the road, drastically reducing distractions and enhancing safety. It’s the closest thing to having a co-pilot managing your phone interactions.
Versatile Mirror Link Functionality (Airplay/Android Cast)
Beyond CarPlay and Android Auto, the Volam RC07 offers Mirror Link via Airplay for iOS and Android Cast for Android devices. This allows you to cast virtually anything from your phone screen directly onto the 9-inch display. While I primarily use CarPlay for driving, the Mirror Link feature is fantastic for passengers or when parked. During a long wait in a drive-thru, I’ve used it to stream YouTube videos, turning my car into a mini-cinema. It’s a great way to entertain kids or catch up on content when you’re stationary, adding another layer of utility to the device.
Enhanced Safety with the Included 170° Backup Camera
The inclusion of a backup camera is a huge bonus, especially at this price point. The camera provides a wide 170° viewing angle, significantly minimizing blind spots and making reversing maneuvers much safer and easier. It features night vision, which performs surprisingly well in low-light conditions, and its IP67 waterproof rating means it holds up reliably in all weather. While installing the camera did require some basic wiring (splicing into the reverse light power), it was manageable, and the benefit is undeniable. The screen automatically switches to the camera view when I shift into reverse, and the clear image provides confidence when parking in tight spots or backing out of driveways. This greatly enhances overall driving safety and convenience, particularly for older vehicles that lack this essential modern feature.
Robust Connectivity with Upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 and Multiple Audio Outputs
The Volam 9” Apple Carplay Screen boasts upgraded Bluetooth 5.3, which ensures a more stable and faster connection compared to older versions. This improved Bluetooth standard enhances the reliability of both phone calls and audio streaming. In terms of audio output, the device offers fantastic flexibility. You can use its built-in speakers, connect it to your car’s existing AUX input, or use the FM transmitter to broadcast audio to your car’s radio. I initially tried the FM transmitter, which worked well, but I found the AUX connection provided the best sound quality for my car. For vehicles without an AUX port, the FM transmitter is a lifesaver, ensuring that everyone can enjoy high-quality audio through their existing car stereo system. The versatility here ensures compatibility with almost any vehicle setup, making it a truly universal upgrade.
Mounting Flexibility and Ease of Installation
Setting up the Volam RC07 was remarkably simple. The kit comes with a robust suction cup bracket that securely attaches to either the windshield or dashboard. I was impressed by how well the suction cup held up, even over bumpy roads during long trips. The package also includes a trim tool, which is a thoughtful addition for tucking wires neatly behind vehicle trim, resulting in a much cleaner installation. The main unit only requires plugging into a 12V power outlet, making the core setup a matter of minutes. This plug-and-play approach ensures that even those with minimal technical skills can successfully install and enjoy the device without professional help, making it a truly accessible upgrade.
What Users Are Saying: Real-World Experiences
I’ve scoured the internet and found that many users share my positive experience with this device. Many drivers highlight how easily it transforms their older car’s stereo system, providing a larger, responsive touchscreen for music, navigation, and calls without needing any complex modifications. Reviewers frequently praise the simple, instant setup, noting how quickly their phones connect automatically upon starting the car. The included backup camera is often cited as a significant bonus, offering clear night vision and a wide view for safer parking. Users are consistently impressed with the screen’s clarity, vibrant colors, and smooth touch response, even in bright conditions. The overall consensus points to a highly convenient and safety-enhancing product that offers excellent value for its features.
Final Thoughts: Is the Volam Carplay Screen Right for You?
The challenge of driving an older vehicle without modern connectivity features – leading to dangerous phone handling and a lack of integrated navigation – is a real one. If left unaddressed, it means continued distractions, missed turns, and a less enjoyable, less safe driving experience. The Volam 9” Apple Carplay Screen offers an excellent, accessible solution.
It’s a great fit for three main reasons:
1. Seamless Integration: It brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to your car, allowing effortless access to your essential phone apps in a driver-friendly interface.
2. Enhanced Safety Features: With voice assistant support and the included backup camera, it significantly reduces distractions and improves visibility during reversing, making every journey safer.
3. Outstanding Value: For its comprehensive features, including the large HD screen, multiple connectivity options, and easy DIY installation, this portable carplay screen provides a modern upgrade at a very reasonable price point.
If you’re looking to modernize your ride without breaking the bank or dealing with complex installations, this portable carplay screen is a highly recommended choice. Don’t let your car’s age hold you back from a smarter, safer driving experience. Click here to check the product out and see how it can transform your daily drives!