Google Nexus 7 in the Dash of Dodge Ram | Part 1 of 2

Sonic Electronix installed a Google Nexus 7 Android Tablet in the dash of a 2008 Dodge Ram. While similar installs have been done with Apple iPad tablets, this install shows that there is a less-expensive alternative to the iPad or a perfect solution for those that prefer the Android operating system.

The tablet is about the same size as a standard 7" Double DIN receiver and can be removed while not in use, making the Nexus 7 perfectly useable inside and outside of the dash cradle.

Google Nexus 7 Specs:
- 7" Screen w/ 1280x800 HD Display
- Back-lit IPS Display
- 8 or 16 GB Internal Storage
- 1 GB RAM
- Long Battery (9 hours of HD video playback, however it is constantly plugged in while docked)
- Quad-core Tegra 3 processor
- WiFi & Bluetooth capable
- OS Android 4.1 Jellybean
- Much more!

[SonicElectronix]

The voice control worked surprising well! Although it isn't in this video, we did test the voice control and it worked without a problem. Maybe the mic on the tablet is just THAT good, but we were impressed.

[JosephTongret]

This is the nicest in dash tablet setup that I've ever seen! You guys are AMAZINGLY innovative! What's really nice is that you know how to use the tablet too! I'm an Android fanatic, and I see ppl do this that don't understand how much functionality they have at their fingertips! I'd say the Nexus 7 is the perfect size & the perfect interface for an in dash unit!

[SonicElectronix]

For sure. The level of custom work changes from car to car (since every car's dash is a little different), but with custom work, anything is possible.

[SonicElectronix]

So far so good! We haven't had any problems yet... its about the same as any android phone. We will update more on this as we use the GPS more and for longer drives.

[SonicElectronix]

The tablet connects to the Audison Bit One which provides additional control options. The tablet will output a stereo signal.

[SonicElectronix]

We lined the back of dock with suede to make it easy to put in, but the Nexus 7 has a nice grip on the back of the tablet that makes it a little tougher.

[SonicElectronix]

The Audison Bit One might do that, look it up. Analog is limiting but it also sounds very warm where digital music can be a bit cold at times. It depends on the preference of the listener really.

[SonicElectronix]

Thanks for the add and app tips. We will check them out!

[SonicElectronix]

In this truck we just used the mobile hotspot feature on our phone, however he have used the AutoNet Mobile in other installs.

[SonicElectronix]

There is always a way to integrate a tablet, especially the smaller Nexus 7. A good install shop should be able to do it np.
If you are in SoCal, bring it by our shop and we will do it. The price varies depending on the type of install and other components used.

[SonicElectronix]

Hard to say, Drew. Every vehicle is so different. But, for custom work, it could be upwards of $500, maybe even $1000 depending on the work required.

[SonicElectronix]

We connected the Nexus 7 to the Audison Bit One using a 3.5mm minijack to RCA cable. However we are working on a way to extract the digital audio from the dock connector and use a S/PDIF connector.

[SonicElectronix]

Using a data connection you can listen to your favorite radio station if they have an online component.

[SonicElectronix]

Excellent! Feel free to posts pics of it on our Facebook page so we can take a look. Every install is different after all.

[dniml]

Proof that the car audio world is pretty small. Nice to see what you're up to now.

[PeterMorris]

Good concept and use of it. Brings the technology of the car right up to date. Just need to nail how you get it in and out easier

[SonicElectronix]

Since the Nexus 7 does not have an AM/FM tuner built in, you'll need to use applications for internet radio on the tablet. So you may end up seeing some different stations depending on what you're looking to listen to.

[SonicElectronix]

You can hide a headunit in the glove box, under the seat, or in the trunk and then connect a tablet to the AUX if you want. There are a lot of ways to make this work actually, and you can ship us your dash if you want us to make you a kit for it. :)

[SonicElectronix]

Depending on how you install it, you can access the buttons from the top or set your unit to remain on when powered.

[avelinoGonzales]

pretty sick. now all you need is a good theme to use in the car. good work bro