When using Wireless Car Play or Wireless Android Auto on your head unit, you may notice that the WiFi function is temporarily paused. This behavior is by design to ensure a stable, low-latency connection between your phone and the head unit. This blog will explain the reason behind this behavior and provide practical solutions.

Why Wireless Connections Affect WiFi Functionality

When Wireless CarPlay or Wireless Android Auto is connected to your phone, the head unit automatically activates a hotspot to communicate with the device. To ensure a stable data connection, the head unit’s WiFi function is automatically disabled. Even if you manually turn on WiFi, the head unit will disable it again to maintain a stable wireless CarPlay / Android Auto connection.

Reason summary: Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto requires exclusive use of the head unit’s wireless resources to ensure stability and low latency. Attempting to use WiFi at the same time may result in disconnections or increased lag.

How to Use the Network While Using CarPlay / Android Auto

Many users want to keep the head unit connected to the internet while using CarPlay or Android Auto. Depending on your connection type, here are the recommended methods:

1. Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto

• When Wireless CarPlay or Wireless Android Auto is active, the head unit uses its hotspot to communicate with your phone, and WiFi is automatically disabled.
• To use the head unit’s WiFi, you must first disconnect Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto.
• Turn off both WiFi and Bluetooth on your phone to ensure the wireless connection is fully disconnected.
• Re-enable the head unit’s WiFi to access the internet as usual.

Note: Disconnecting the wireless connection will temporarily stop Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto. This method is suitable for temporary internet access or downloading updates.

2. Wired CarPlay / Android Auto

• Wired CarPlay or Android Auto does not occupy the head unit’s WiFi, so both functions can work simultaneously.
• You can use WiFi on the head unit while navigating, making calls, or playing multimedia via the wired connection.
• This method is ideal for users who need constant internet access, such as streaming music or downloading map updates.

3. Using 4G Network (for Head Units with SIM Card Support)

• Some head units support 4G connectivity via a SIM card.
• Even when Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto is active, the head unit can remain connected to the internet without disconnecting the      wireless connection.
• This option is especially convenient for long trips or when WiFi signals are unstable.

Safety Tip: When adjusting wireless connections or WiFi settings while driving, always ensure your vehicle is safely parked to avoid distractions.

Conclusion

Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto are engineered to provide smooth, low-latency communication between your smartphone and the head unit. Temporarily pausing WiFi while using these wireless connections is part of this optimization — helping ensure consistent performance on the road.

By choosing the connection method that suits your usage style — wireless, wired, or 4G — users can enjoy both flexible internet access and uninterrupted CarPlay / Android Auto functionality, resulting in a smoother and more convenient in-car experience.