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I'm already working on something like this and have a prototype board designed.

Here is my version 1.

https://youtu.be/pJjq_0hZEh4 https://youtu.be/drCtDADRJe8 https://youtu.be/jLCiIB6z968

Version 2 is being built around a CM4 IO board and will include my AVCLAN implementation, DAC, GPS and is intended to run AOSP Android. The board is fully designed already and I'm working on the custom Android build now.

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That's really cool! Looks like you found the same resources as I did on the AVC-LAN inner workings.

It's also fun to see how each Toyota product uses the same modules and buttons, just different layouts and front panel designs. Your solution (sans the custom display that will only fit your model) should work on just about every Toyota and Lexus model from the AVC-LAN era (2000~2010)

Not sure if you'd be willing to share your code or diagrams, but anything would help me tremendously. My contact info is in my bio.

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Yes, my coding should allow my module to easily be usable by any Toyota or Lexus, even to create new custom modules. I'm also working on a proximity sensor module to integrate into my custom LCD using the AVCLAN protocol.
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Sorry, I don't see your contact info.
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Godspeed. I find it frustrating these systems don't follow some sort of international standard, still. I can't justify replacing the system in my 2016 Highlander just to get Android auto, but the Bluetooth system handles non-phone calls poorly and the album art database hasn't been updated for basically the entire life of the vehicle. I don't like having to rely on the manufacturer nor Google/Apple for connectivity basics.
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> I find it frustrating these systems don't follow some sort of international standard

They do, actually!

Most car manufacturers, including Toyota, now use the MOST-bus for infotainment system interconnects, which is an open standard. So your car being a >2010 Toyota, it will have a MOST system.

> I can't justify replacing the system in my 2016 Highlander just to get Android auto

You don't have to, there are plenty of aftermarket modules available that will add Android Auto to your existing MOST infotainment system. Can be a hit-or-miss though in terms of quality and integration. If you want something reliable and well integrated, stick with the OEM solutions.

> I don't like having to rely on the manufacturer nor Google/Apple for connectivity basics.

You're already relying on the car OEM for mobility and your safety, and you're already relying on Google or Apply for connectivity (aka: your phone's OS).

Remember that your 2016 Highlander (3rd gen XU50) was introduced in 2013, so developed well before that. Android auto didn't even exist back then, and we still hadn't consolidated on the iOS/Android duopoly we have today. Heck we were still using Windows phone and Blackberry OS back then. How could Toyota engineers have designed something that would still remain compatible with devices in 2025? Quite remarkable actually that it still works at all.

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Is possible to equip an old car with some sort of infotainment+map system (ideally integrated with GMaps)? Something off the shelf that requires installation but after that integrates with your phone (Android or in the future Apple).
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If you don't mind spending the money, go to crutchfield's website and pick a head unit with the features you want, they'll sell the kit to make it integrate with your cars built in systems.
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Where's the fun in that?
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