When you’re looking to upgrade your car’s tech, a Rexing Apple CarPlay dash cam combo can feel like hitting two birds with one stone: you get that handy smartphone integration you love, plus an extra layer of driving safety with a camera constantly watching the road. It’s like having a co-pilot who also records everything, which can be super helpful for anything from navigation to capturing unexpected moments on your drive. You’re getting the best of both worlds – smart connectivity and reliable security – all wrapped up in one device.
What’s a Rexing Apple CarPlay Dash Cam, Anyway?
So, what exactly are we talking about here? When we say “Rexing Apple CarPlay dash cam,” we’re usually looking at a specific type of device, often called a multimedia receiver, that Rexing makes. These aren’t just your standard dash cams that sit quietly on your windshield. they’re more like a central hub for your car’s tech. Think of models like the Rexing RoadMate CPDuo or other similar Rexing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display units.
These devices typically feature a large touchscreen display, often around 6.25 to 10.26 inches, which mounts right on your dashboard. The cool thing is, these screens don’t just show you dash cam footage. they wirelessly connect to your iPhone or Android phone, mirroring your Apple CarPlay interface. This means you get easy access to all your favorite apps for navigation like Apple Maps or Google Maps, hands-free calls and messaging, and podcast streaming through apps like Spotify or Apple Podcast, all on a bigger, dedicated screen in your car. It’s essentially giving an older car a modern infotainment system without the hassle of a full head unit replacement.
But here’s the kicker: they also have a built-in dash cam system. Many of these Rexing units come with a 4K UHD front camera to capture super clear footage of the road ahead, and often a Full HD rear backup camera too. This dual-channel recording is awesome for comprehensive coverage, giving you peace of mind that your drives are being documented.
Key Features You’ll Love in a Rexing CarPlay Dash Cam
When you’re checking out these Rexing CarPlay dash cam systems, there are a bunch of features that really stand out and make them a must for many drivers.
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Crystal-Clear 4K Dash Cam Recording
One of the big draws is the video quality. Many Rexing units, like the RoadMate, boast a 4K UHD front camera. That’s a huge deal because sharper video means clearer details – things like license plates, road signs, and faces are much easier to make out if you ever need the footage for insurance claims or legal purposes. And it’s not just the front. a lot of these also come with a 1080p Full HD rear camera, so you’ve got coverage from both ends of your vehicle. Some even offer multi-channel recording, like the Rexing R4 which captures front, rear, left, and right views in 1080p, giving you almost 360-degree awareness.
These cameras often feature wide-angle lenses, like a 170° front view, which helps minimize blind spots and ensures you get a broader picture of what’s happening around your car. Many also come with enhanced night vision technology thanks to features like F1.8 aperture, WDR Wide Dynamic Range, and HDR High Dynamic Range, so even when it’s dark, your footage should still be pretty clear.
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto for Seamless Connectivity
This is where the magic really happens. Forget fumbling with cables every time you get in the car. Rexing’s CarPlay-enabled dash cams offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Once you’ve paired your phone, it should automatically reconnect each time you start your car, giving you instant access to your smartphone’s key features on the dash cam’s screen.
You can get turn-by-turn directions from Google Maps or Apple Maps, make hands-free calls, send messages using voice commands, and stream your favorite podcast or podcasts. It really transforms your driving experience, making it safer and more enjoyable by keeping your focus on the road instead of your phone.
Brilliant HD Touchscreen Display
The display itself is another highlight. Rexing offers screens ranging from about 6.25 inches to a generous 10.26 inches. These are typically HD touchscreens that are crisp, vibrant, and responsive to your touch. Having a good-sized screen makes it so much easier to interact with your apps, view navigation, or check your dash cam footage without squinting. Some models even support voice control, letting you use Siri or Google Assistant.
Built-in GPS and Wi-Fi Connectivity
Most Rexing CarPlay dash cams come with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS. The GPS functionality is great because it logs your speed and location data with your video footage, which can be crucial evidence in an incident. The high-speed Wi-Fi lets you easily transfer video files directly to your mobile device using the Rexing Connect app. This means you don’t have to pull out the microSD card every time you want to review or save a clip. Bluetooth connectivity also allows for hands-free calls and podcast streaming through your car’s audio system.
Parking Monitoring and Collision Detection
For added peace of mind, many Rexing dash cams include parking mode and collision detection. With parking mode, your dash cam stays on alert even when your car is turned off, usually requiring a hardwire kit sold separately. If it detects any vibrations or impacts, it’ll automatically start recording, capturing potential hit-and-runs or vandalism. The built-in G-sensor is what handles this, detecting sudden shakes or collisions and then automatically locking that video file to prevent it from being overwritten by loop recording.
Is Rexing a Good Dash Cam Brand?
Now, this is a question that pops up a lot when people are looking for a new dash cam. From my searches, the general consensus on Rexing is a bit mixed, but leaning positive for their newer integrated CarPlay units.
On one hand, many users have good experiences. For example, some folks online say they’ve used Rexing dash cams for years and found them reliable, praising their ease of setup, quick connection, and good video quality for both front and rear cameras. Reviewers often highlight the great picture quality, especially the 4K video, and smooth performance with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. The inclusion of a memory card and built-in GPS are also often seen as a plus. Some even compare the performance of these units to fancy screens in high-end vehicles.
However, there are also some concerns that have come up, particularly in older discussions or reviews on platforms like Reddit. Some users have reported issues like corrupted video files, glitchy user interfaces, and flimsy mounts. There have also been complaints about customer service and difficulties getting replacements for defective units. Some older models were noted for batteries swelling or for the app being “kludgy” and difficult to retrieve video from. Others have pointed out that some rear cameras might not perform well at night, especially with tinted windows, or that the camera size can be quite large. The Rexing Connect app itself also has mixed reviews, with some users experiencing connection issues or difficulties managing multiple files.
When it comes to the integrated CarPlay/Android Auto dash cam models, the reviews seem to be more consistently positive, focusing on the convenience and features like the 4K front camera, 1080p rear camera, wireless connectivity, and responsive touchscreens. It seems like Rexing has been making strides, especially with their newer all-in-one RoadMate CPDuo series. So, while some older models might have had their quirks, their current offerings that combine CarPlay/Android Auto with a dash cam seem to be well-received for their feature set and convenience.
Connecting Your Rexing Dash Cam to Your iPhone and Android
Getting your Rexing dash cam hooked up to your smartphone for Apple CarPlay or even just to manage footage is usually a pretty straightforward process. Let’s break it down.
Initial Dash Cam Setup
First things first, you’ll need to power on your Rexing dash cam. Most of these devices automatically turn on when plugged into your car’s 12V accessory socket or cigarette lighter, especially when the vehicle starts.
Pairing for Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto
If you have a Rexing unit that supports wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto like the RoadMate CPDuo series, here’s how you generally connect:
- Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on Your Phone: Make sure both are turned “ON” in your iPhone’s or Android phone’s settings.
- Start Connection on Dash Cam: On the Rexing unit’s main menu, you’ll usually find an icon for CarPlay or Android Auto. Tap that to start the connection process.
- Pair Bluetooth: Go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings and look for the device name, which often appears as “CAR-KIT-XXXX” or “T86-XXXXXX” the “XXXXXX” will be a unique combination of letters and numbers. Select “Pair” and confirm any pairing codes if prompted.
- Allow CarPlay/Android Auto: Once Bluetooth is connected, your phone might get a pop-up asking if you want to “Use CarPlay” for iPhones or confirm the Android Auto connection. Select that option. The device should then automatically connect to the mobile Wi-Fi, and your CarPlay or Android Auto interface should appear on the Rexing screen.
The cool part is, once it’s set up, the device should automatically pair with the last connected phone and launch CarPlay/Android Auto the next time you get in your car.
Using the Rexing Dash Cam App Rexing Connect
Beyond CarPlay, Rexing also has a dedicated app, typically called Rexing Connect, for managing your dash cam footage directly. This is how you’d connect a standard Rexing dash cam to your phone, or access footage from your CarPlay-enabled unit when you’re not actively using CarPlay.
- Download the App: Get the “Rexing Connect” app from your phone’s app store Apple App Store for iPhones, Google Play Store for Android.
- Activate Dash Cam Wi-Fi: On your Rexing dash cam, you’ll need to enable the Wi-Fi function through its menu. The Wi-Fi name SSID and password for the dash cam should then pop up on its screen.
- Connect Phone to Dash Cam Wi-Fi: Go to your phone’s Wi-Fi settings, find the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network often something like “RTSP-XXXXXX” and connect to it. You’ll enter the password displayed on the dash cam screen. It’s a good idea to temporarily turn off your phone’s cellular data or Wi-Fi Assist on iOS to ensure a smooth connection to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network.
- Open Rexing Connect App: Launch the app. It should prompt you to connect to your dash cam. Tap the connect button within the app.
- Access Features: Once connected, you’ll usually see a live preview from the dash cam. You can then access the DVR album or event folder to view recorded videos, download clips to your phone’s gallery, or adjust settings like parking mode.
Remember, while connecting for CarPlay, you might be using Bluetooth and a separate Wi-Fi connection for the mirroring function. When using the Rexing Connect app for footage management, you’re usually connecting directly to the dash cam’s own Wi-Fi network. Some users have noted that you might need to disconnect your phone from the wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto signal first if you want to use the Rexing Connect app to connect to the camera, or use a phone not paired to your car’s smartphone integration.
Rexing Dash Cam App: Your Command Center
The Rexing Connect app available for both Android and iPhone is really your central hub for getting the most out of your Rexing dash cam. It’s much more than just a way to view footage. it gives you a lot of control and convenience.
Once you’re connected to your dash cam’s Wi-Fi network and remember, sometimes you need to temporarily disconnect from your car’s regular Wi-Fi or cellular data for a smooth connection, the app opens up a world of possibilities.
Here’s what you can typically do with it:
- Live View: See exactly what your dash cam is recording in real-time, right on your phone screen. This is super handy for making sure your camera is angled just right after installation or if you just want to check the view quickly.
- Access Recorded Videos: You can browse through all the videos and photos stored on your dash cam’s microSD card. The app usually organizes them into categories, like “unlocked videos” regular recordings and “locked videos” emergency recordings triggered by the G-sensor.
- Download and Share Footage: If you’ve captured something important or just a cool scenic drive, you can easily download selected video clips directly to your phone’s gallery. From there, sharing with insurance companies, law enforcement, or just your friends on social media is a breeze.
- Adjust Settings: No need to fiddle with tiny buttons on the dash cam itself. The app often lets you change various settings remotely. This could include things like video resolution, loop recording duration, G-sensor sensitivity, and even managing parking mode.
- Firmware Updates: While not always done directly through the app, some updates might be facilitated by downloading files via the app or using information found there. Keeping your dash cam’s firmware up-to-date can improve performance and add new features.
- GPS Playback: For models with GPS, you can use Rexing GPS playback software often on a computer, transferring files from the dash cam or your phone to view your video alongside driving data like speed and location.
While the app’s functionality is great in theory, some users have expressed mixed feelings about its usability, mentioning occasional connection issues or difficulty handling a large number of files. But for most basic tasks, it serves as a powerful remote control for your dash cam.
Dash Cams and Apple CarPlay’s Backup Camera: How They Mesh
This is a common point of confusion: “Does Apple CarPlay come with a backup camera?” The answer is, not directly. Apple CarPlay itself doesn’t inherently have a backup camera, but it’s designed to seamlessly integrate with your vehicle’s existing or add-on reverse camera system.
Here’s how it usually works, especially with a Rexing CarPlay dash cam that includes a rear camera:
- The Dash Cam’s Role: Many Rexing CarPlay units, like the RoadMate CPDuo, come with a dedicated Full HD rear backup camera. This camera is typically wired to the main unit and often designed to provide “reverse park assistance”.
- Automatic Display: When your car is put into reverse, the Rexing unit’s screen will usually automatically switch to display the live video feed from the included rear camera. This is a super helpful feature, giving you a clear view of what’s behind your vehicle, complete with parking assist lines to guide you.
- CarPlay Takes a Backseat Temporarily: While the backup camera feed is active, the CarPlay interface takes a temporary pause. As soon as you shift out of reverse, the screen typically switches back to your CarPlay interface, letting you resume your navigation, podcast, or calls.
- Integration, Not Control: It’s important to understand that CarPlay doesn’t control the backup camera’s operation. it simply displays the feed. The actual activation and management of the camera like triggering when you shift into reverse are handled by the car’s own systems or the dash cam unit itself.
So, if you’re getting a Rexing wireless Apple CarPlay dash cam, you’re essentially getting a versatile display that not only gives you modern smartphone integration but also doubles as a comprehensive dash cam system with the added benefit of a backup camera view when you need it for parking. It’s a smart way to enhance both your connectivity and safety features in one go.
Choosing the Right Rexing Model for You
Rexing has a range of dash cam products, and when you’re specifically looking for that CarPlay integration, you’ll want to focus on their “multimedia receiver” style units. It’s not every dash cam they make that has CarPlay built-in, so knowing what to look for is key.
The standout models that combine wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with a built-in dash cam are often found under the Rexing RoadMate CPDuo series. You might see variations like the CPDuo-7 featuring a 7-inch screen or the CPDuo Pro with a larger 10.26-inch LCD touchscreen. These are the devices designed to be your all-in-one solution.
Here’s what to consider when picking one:
- Screen Size: These units come with various screen sizes, from around 6.25 inches to over 10 inches. Think about what will fit best on your dashboard without blocking your view, but also what size feels comfortable for interacting with CarPlay apps. A bigger screen can be great for navigation and seeing details, but too big might be distracting.
- Camera Resolution: Most of the CarPlay integrated units offer a 4K UHD front camera and a 1080p Full HD rear camera. This is pretty standard for good quality footage. If you need something with even more comprehensive coverage, like recording side views, you might look at models like the Rexing R4, which is a 4-channel dash cam, though this model focuses solely on multi-camera recording and doesn’t inherently include the CarPlay display.
- Features like Parking Mode and GPS: Confirm if the model includes these. Most Rexing CarPlay units do come with built-in GPS and parking monitoring capabilities, but remember that parking mode often requires an additional hardwire kit for 24/7 protection.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: All of these CarPlay-enabled units will have dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless wireless connectivity to your smartphone and audio streaming.
- Installation: Rexing prides itself on “hassle-free installation” for these units, often connecting directly to your car’s cigarette lighter via a Type-C power supply interface. They typically come with dashboard mounting options.
Models like the Rexing DT2 are also good dash cams, offering dual-channel 1080p recording, enhanced night vision, and parking monitoring, but they are standalone dash cams and do not include the integrated Apple CarPlay display. So, if CarPlay is a must-have, stick to the RoadMate CPDuo series or similar all-in-one receivers.
Always check the specific model’s specifications and reviews to make sure it aligns with what you need for your daily drives.
Tips for Optimizing Your Rexing CarPlay Dash Cam Experience
Once you’ve got your Rexing CarPlay dash cam set up, there are a few things you can do to make sure you’re getting the absolute best experience out of it.
- Secure Your Mount Properly: This might seem obvious, but a wobbly dash cam means wobbly footage, which isn’t very useful if you need it for evidence. Whether you’re using an adhesive mount or a suction cup mount some models offer both, ensure it’s firmly attached to your windshield or dashboard. For windshield mounts, using an electrostatic sticker first can make it easier to remove without leaving residue.
- Use a High-Quality microSD Card: The quality of your memory card can really impact video recording stability. Rexing recommends using a Class 10, UHS-I or higher MicroSD/SDHC/SDXC card, with capacities typically ranging from 32GB up to 256GB. Investing in a good, high-endurance card designed for continuous recording will help prevent corrupted files and ensure your footage is reliably saved.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Like any tech gadget, your Rexing dash cam can benefit from firmware updates. These updates often bring performance improvements, bug fixes, and sometimes even new features. Check the Rexing USA website periodically for updates specific to your model.
- Manage Your Cables: Nobody likes a messy dashboard. Route your power and rear camera cables neatly and securely using the included cable clips many Rexing units come with these. This not only looks better but also prevents cables from interfering with your driving or becoming a distraction.
- Optimize Parking Mode: If your unit supports parking mode and you’ve got the hardwire kit installed, make sure you’ve adjusted the G-sensor sensitivity in the app or device settings. You want it sensitive enough to detect impacts, but not so sensitive that every door slam or strong gust of wind triggers a recording and fills up your memory card unnecessarily.
- Audio Integration: For the best sound quality for podcast and calls from CarPlay, try connecting the Rexing unit to your car’s audio system via Bluetooth, AUX input, or FM transmitter if available. While the unit might have its own speaker good for navigation prompts, routing audio through your car’s speakers will always give you a better experience for entertainment.
- Regularly Review Footage: Don’t just set it and forget it. Periodically check your dash cam footage, especially after long trips or if you’ve had any incidents. This ensures the camera is recording correctly and that the video quality is up to par. You can do this easily through the Rexing Connect app.
- Clean the Lens: A smudged or dirty camera lens can significantly reduce video quality. Give your dash cam’s lenses front and rear a quick wipe with a soft cloth now and then to ensure they capture the clearest possible image.
- Be Mindful of Reflections: At night, the screen of the CarPlay unit might reflect off your windshield, which can be distracting. Sometimes, adjusting the screen’s angle or adding a small anti-glare shield can help with this.
By paying attention to these little details, you can make sure your Rexing Apple CarPlay dash cam combo is working its best for you, providing both top-notch connectivity and reliable road protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Rexing wireless Apple CarPlay and 4K dash cam?
It’s an all-in-one device that combines a high-resolution dash camera often 4K front and 1080p rear with a touchscreen display that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you get features like navigation, podcast streaming, and hands-free calling from your smartphone displayed on the unit, while simultaneously recording your drive for safety and evidence.
How do I connect my Rexing dash cam to my iPhone for Apple CarPlay?
To connect for Apple CarPlay, first ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your iPhone. Then, on the Rexing unit, initiate the CarPlay connection. Go to your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings, find the Rexing device e.g., “CAR-KIT-XXXX”, pair with it, and then allow CarPlay to connect when prompted. The unit should then automatically establish a Wi-Fi connection for CarPlay functionality.
Is Rexing considered a good dash cam brand?
Rexing generally receives mixed but often positive reviews, especially for its newer integrated CarPlay dash cam models. Many users praise the video quality especially 4K front cameras, ease of use, and seamless CarPlay integration. However, some older reviews mention occasional software glitches or customer service issues. Their current all-in-one CarPlay solutions appear to be well-regarded for their feature set and convenience.
Can I use the Rexing dash cam app on my Android phone?
Yes, Rexing has a dedicated app called “Rexing Connect” available for both Android and iPhone devices. This app allows you to connect to your dash cam via Wi-Fi to view live footage, access recorded videos, download clips to your phone, and adjust camera settings remotely.
Does Apple CarPlay have a backup camera, and how does it work with a Rexing unit?
Apple CarPlay itself doesn’t have a built-in backup camera. rather, it’s designed to integrate with a vehicle’s existing or add-on reverse camera systems. Many Rexing CarPlay dash cam units come with a dedicated rear camera. When you shift your car into reverse, the Rexing screen automatically switches from the CarPlay interface to display the live feed from the rear camera, often with parking assist lines, for safer backing up. Rexing Apple CarPlay: Upgrade Your Drive with Smart, Safe Tech
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