The Ultimate Guide to Android 10 Head Unit Upgrades for Your Car

Upgrading your car’s infotainment system can dramatically enhance your driving experience. If you’re considering an upgrade, especially for BMW or similar European models, you might be exploring options like car coding to further customize your vehicle. This guide focuses on Android 10 head units, particularly those powered by the Snapdragon 625, offering a deep dive into identification, updates, and everything you need to know.

This article builds upon previous discussions and threads, offering a consolidated and updated resource for enthusiasts and those new to aftermarket Android car head units. For those seeking community interaction and real-time discussions, the Automotive Android Headunit Discord channel is an excellent place to connect with fellow users and experts. This community extends to owners of Mercedes-Benz and Audi vehicles as well, as many units share similar software platforms.

For those interested in visual customization and theming, the 10.25″ Android 9/10 HU theming and discussion thread provides a wealth of information on modifying your head unit’s appearance with custom GUIs, boot animations, and more.

Identifying Your Snapdragon 625 Android 10 Head Unit

Before purchasing or troubleshooting, it’s crucial to identify the specifications of your Android head unit. Snapdragon 625 units have been a popular choice for their balance of performance and cost.

Pre-Purchase Identification:

Processor: Look for Snapdragon 625, also known as SD625, 8953, or MSM8953. Be cautious as some 8-core Snapdragon 450 units are also based on the MSM8953 board, but are different internally.
CPU Cores: 8 Cores
CPU Speed: 2.0 or 2.1 GHz (Slight variations may be advertised by different sellers)
RAM: 2GB or 4GB
Storage: 32GB or 64GB

Important Notes:

Official Android 10 support is primarily for models with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. While Android 10 can run on 2GB/32GB versions, performance may be less optimal.
Beware of fake or underperforming Android 10 units. These may feature processors like PX6, Snapdragon 425, Snapdragon 450 (lower clock speeds), 8227L, or MTK chips. Units with only 1GB RAM and 16GB ROM are also red flags. Avoid Octa-core CPUs clocked below 2.0 GHz, especially those with Intel chips, as they are incompatible with Snapdragon firmware.
The Snapdragon 625 is considered end-of-life, but newer Snapdragon 450 based units are emerging as successors for budget KSW systems, utilizing similar OTA update files but different MCU files. The high-performance models now feature the Snapdragon 662 with Android 11.

Post-Purchase Verification:

After receiving your head unit, verify its specifications to ensure it matches the advertised Snapdragon 625 and Android 10 configuration. There are three key aspects to check: Android Version, Vendor Version, and Display Type.

Caution Against Fake Units: Recently, some sellers (HFCYJIA, COIKA, Astrowind, Shenzhen Yongzhigao Electronics) have been identified selling fake units advertised as Snapdragon 625 and Android 10. These units often run Android 9 and Snapdragon 450 on incompatible system images. Refer to forum discussions HERE and HERE for more details on identifying these fraudulent sellers and units.

The ID7 GUI is commonly used on Snapdragon 625 units. However, be aware that fake units are now also copying this GUI, making visual identification less reliable.

Example of the Snapdragon 625 ID7 GUI for car Android head units.

System Information Differences:

Comparing system information screens can reveal discrepancies.

System information screen of a fake Android head unit, highlighting version discrepancies.

Fake Head Unit GUI Example:

The ID7 GUI as seen on a counterfeit Android car head unit.

Key Identification Points:

Android Version: Check the “App Ver:” string in system information. “Ksw-Q-Userdebug_OS_v1.2.2″ indicates Android 10 (Q), while “P” signifies Android 9.
“S” Version: Systems with “S” (e.g., “Ksw-Q-S-Userdebug_OS_v1.3.0″) use a Snapdragon 425 chipset and are incompatible with Snapdragon 625 update files.
Vendor Version: The “MCU Ver:” string’s initial part identifies the vendor. Common vendors include GS, LZH, and ALS (e.g., “023052dGS-NBT-GTH–191127-B18″).
Display Type:
- Resolution: 1280x480p (HD) is standard, while 1920x720p (Full HD) is also available.
- “HD” Logo: A visible [HD] logo on the top bar usually indicates a 1920x720p display. Lack of this logo suggests a 1280px display.
- Display Manufacturing Types: Standard (glare-prone), Antiglare (less glare), and Blueglare Antiglare (blueish coating, reduced glare and blur). Be wary of fake blueglare screens with blue tint but high glare.

Comparison of different display types for car Android head units, highlighting glare and coating differences.

Firmware Upgrades for Android 10 Head Units

PX6 Units: Unfortunately, firmware upgrades from Android 8.1/9 to Android 10 are not available for PX6-based head units.

Snapdragon 625 Units (Android 9 to 10 Upgrade):

To upgrade from Android 9 to Android 10 on Snapdragon 625 units, a specific upgrade path is required:

Install V 1.2.0 First: Download the transitional version V 1.2.0: https://mega.nz/file/wYxUWIYR#wEXGtc…0jtTi-kq7AllhE
Upgrade to Latest Version: After V 1.2.0, you can directly update to the newest Android 10 firmware.

Important Considerations:

This upgrade path is officially supported only for 4GB RAM / 64GB storage versions. However, it has been reported to work on 2GB/32GB versions with potential performance lags.
No Rollback: Once upgraded from Android 9 to 10, you cannot revert to Android 9.
Naming Conventions:
- Android 9 upgrade packages: Ksw-P-Userdebug_OS_vx.x.x-ota.zip
- Android 10 upgrade packages: Ksw-Q-Userdebug_OS_vx.x.x-ota.zip

Firmware Update Procedure for Android 10:

OTA (Over-The-Air) updates are commonly distributed online.

Latest Firmware Versions:

Android 9 to Android 10 Upgraded Units (Up to 3.1.5): HERE (Update 3.1.5 is the last supported for these upgraded units)
Native Android 10 Units (3.1.6+): HERE

Update Installation Steps:

USB Drive Preparation: Use a USB thumb drive (up to 32GB, FAT32 formatted using a Windows PC for best compatibility).
Copy Update File: Do NOT unzip the downloaded file. Copy the Ksw-Q-Userdebug_OS_v*.*.*-ota.zip file to the empty USB drive.
Initiate Upgrade: Power on your head unit and insert the USB drive. The upgrade window should appear automatically. Click to begin the update process.
Completion: After the upgrade, remove the USB drive to prevent repeated upgrade prompts on startup.
Do not interrupt power during the update process.

Known Bugs and Fixed Issues

Known Bugs:

Voice Match/OK Google: Voice training needs to be done on a separate Android smartphone.
12 Channel Equalizer: Inconsistent performance reported.
USB Autostart: Autostart for USB devices like DAB-Z may not work since OTA Update 2.3.5.
OTA 3.0.4 Bug: Reports of units becoming unresponsive (“no screen”) after updating to 3.0.4.

Fixed Bugs (Through Updates):

Mercedes Benz DSP100 Issues (2.9.4): Resolved in update 3.0.4.
Memory Killer Feature (2.4.9-2.7.9): Fixed in 2.8.3, preventing premature background app termination.
Netflix Bootloop: Bootloop issues caused by Netflix (v4 & v6) fixed in 1.8.4. Netflix 7.63.0 APK download
Android Auto Wireless (ZLINK 4.0.7, 2.8.6): Fixed in update 3.0.8.

Changelogs for Firmware Updates

Staying updated with firmware changelogs is crucial for understanding improvements and fixes.

Key Changelogs:

Update 3.1.5 (Last Supported for Android 9->10 Upgrades):
- Custom Music and Video APP Support
- “Gear Selection” with 3 options (function of the third unknown)
- Special Skin for ALS KSW EQ (MBUX_2021 GUI only)
- Bugfix: Music App selection in Factory Settings restored
- Preparation for selectable Music/Video apps across all GUIs (not yet functional)
- No MBN Update file included
Update 3.1.2: (Same as 3.1.5, likely typo in original changelog)
Update 3.1.1:
- Update: Lexus GUI update
- Bug: Music app selection in Factory settings broken
- No MBN Update file
Update 3.0.8:
- Bugfix: Carplay ZLink Version Update 4.0.12 – Wireless Android Auto issue fixed
- GUI Updates: Graphics updates across various GUIs
- Benz_NTG6_FY GUI support for 1024*600 and 1920*720 resolutions
- Feature: IMEI display in System Ver: with QR code on click
- New GUI: Audi MIB3
- Screen_Cast device MS9120 support for additional displays via FBAS
- KswEQ dependency change (GUI-based)
- No MBN Update file
Update 3.0.5:
- Bugfix: Updated MBN File to prevent bricking on non-LS units (universal for KSW SD625 Hardware)
- Audio driver updates (changes unknown)
- Wi-Fi, libmcamera2, and sensors.qti updates (changes unknown)
Update 3.0.4 (Potentially Bricking Update – Use Caution):
- Warning: Can brick units upgraded from Android 9 to 10 or manufactured before March 2020. Recovery procedure HERE if bricked.
- Four new GUIs added
- Factory_config.xml file updated
- Wi-Fi firmware update (v2, irreversible, changes unknown)
- Ecar-SOS updated
- New Skin for kswEq (Client “ALS_6208” enabled)
Update 2.9.4 (Beta – Use with Caution):
- Feature: Four new GUIs (work in progress, potentially unstable)
- KSW Snapdragon 450 Baseband Chipset (SDM450) support
- New “Client” string: “CUSP_210407”
- Irreversible Wi-Fi firmware update
- Potential 5 GHz Wi-Fi prioritization
- Default Wi-Fi tethering enabled?
- Lexus GUI Background color change
- KswBT Pairing Dialog scaling change
- Audio driver updates (changes unknown)
- BUG: Mercedes Benz DSP100 issues reported
Update 2.8.6:
- BUG: Android Auto Wireless (ZLINK) broken
- Fuel Unit selection (“Liter”, “gal(US)”, “gal(UK)”) in ID7 Dashboard/MCU page
- “kswMaxVol” function (potential audio maximization, testing needed)
- Mediaplayback behavior change on startup (user feedback needed)
- Android 11 code updates for bootanimation and hardware detection (“M600” codename?)
- Zlink start string change for potential kswredirect (BCNTG5)
- Audio driver updates (changes unknown)
- HICAR Update for custom cameras and Audiomanager update
Update 2.8.3:
- Bugfix: Memory Killer issue resolved (reduced threshold to 20%)
- Huawei ZLINK-HICar 2.0.2 added (Android Auto alternative)
- Thai and Greek language strings added
- Zlink Touchpointer support?
- Zlink updated to 4.0.7 (encrypted source, no changelog)
- Android 11 preparation code changes
- LTE-Baseband behavior for MSM8917 (SD425) units
- Audio driver updates (changes unknown)
Older Changelogs (1.2.2 – 2.7.9): https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showpost.php?p=26637612&postcount=1233

Factory_config.xml File Explained

The factory_config.xml file is a configuration file used to predefine settings on your head unit.

Purpose:

Allows sellers to quickly configure units for specific car models.
Contains settings accessible in the head unit’s “Settings” menu and advanced settings only changeable via this file.

Installation:

Create OEM Folder: Create a folder named “OEM” on your USB drive.
Copy File: Place the factory_config.xml file inside the “OEM” folder.
Installation Methods:
- Automatic: Plug in the USB drive during head unit boot-up. Installation should start shortly after booting (confirmation message will appear).
- Manual: Go to “Factory Settings” on your head unit, navigate to “Profile Import,” and select the file from the USB drive.

Default File Location:

If available, the default file is located at mntvendorpersistOEM. Accessing this may require root access. Guide HERE.

Obtaining the File:

Request the file from your seller, as it is usually pre-configured for your car model.
Tweaked and enhanced versions are available online, offering more options and software. Always compare settings with your existing file before using a modified one.

Download Links for Modified Factory_config.xml Files:

Android 10 3.9.4+: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=29673583&postcount=5706
Android 10 3.5.3+: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=28906933&postcount=5308
Android 10 3.4.7+: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=28605288&postcount=5088
Android 10 3.0.4+: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=27750999&postcount=3925
Android 10 2.8.3: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=27467910&postcount=3249
Android 10 2.6.3: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=27098072&postcount=2432
Android 10 2.1.0: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showpost.php?p=26661358&postcount=1309
Older/Stock Files: DISCORD

Version Compatibility: Using a file version matching your OTA update is recommended. Using a file designed for an older update on a newer system is generally safe, but using a newer file on an older system is not advised.

MCU Firmware Updates

MCU (Microcontroller Unit) firmware manages lower-level hardware functions.

Android 10 MCU Updates: As of now, dedicated Android 10 MCU updates are not prevalent. Android 9 MCU files often function correctly on Android 10 units.

Latest SD625 MCU Updates: bit.ly/mcu-bmw

MCU String Interpretation Example:

MCU Ver: 02352dGS-CIC-GTL-DC-200805A

02352: Hardware string
dGS: Vendor/Hardware manufacturer (GS in this case)
CIC: Target CAN Bus System (CIC – can be E or F series BMW)
GTL: CAN Bus Speed (GTL = 100 kbits – CCC/E series CIC and some F series CIC; GTH = 500kbits – F series NBT, NBT EVO)
DC: Optional string, DC or DC1 indicates HD Display (1920x720px)
200805A: Release Date (YYMMDD format – August 5th, 2020)

MCU Vendor/Seller Comparison (Non-Recommendation List):

dGS: Mekede (subs: Navifly, Naviodm, FLTONBOO), Xtrons (B)?, Wondafoo, Bayern Mods, DroidUK, AVINUSA, Ebilaen
ALS: 4×4 CA, AVINUSA (B, now GS?), Viovox (B)
LZH: Andream, Ewaying
dLS: Carlife Mall, DMP Car Design (M), Fedju (M), Acarmultimedia
dLC: Road Top
dFY: Wincago DMP Cardesign (M) Road Top
JLY: Bonroad, SZ-Kianda (potentially lower quality hardware, advertised 1920 but selling 1280 units)

(B) = BMW only, (M) = Mercedes only.

MCU Update Instructions:

Prepare USB: Unpack/copy ksw_mcu.bin to the root folder of a SD card or USB drive.
Insert USB: Insert into the head unit.
MCU Upgrade Menu: Go to Settings -> System info -> MCU upgrade.

How-To Guides and Tips

Many guides from Android 9 are compatible with Android 10 units.

Important Warnings:

Do NOT use Magisk for rooting. It carries a high risk of bricking your head unit, potentially requiring replacement.
Viper4Android, requiring Magisk/Xposed, is also not recommended due to bricking risks after updates.

Useful How-To Guides:

Root SD625 Unit (Easy Method Version 2 – Basic root without Magisk): https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26302156&postcount=659 (Root may be removed after OTA updates and need reapplying).
Create Custom Splash Screen Guide: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=25400354#post25400354
LTE Band Identification: Use Modemcaps utility. Official band info HERE.
DocumentsUI Reinstallation (Android 10): https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26087515&postcount=343
Download Personal BMW Car Picture: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showpost.php?p=26095724&postcount=365
Enable Google Maps Zoom with iDrive: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=25804537&postcount=2548 (Tasker+Touchtask plugin)
Enable OK-Google/Voice Match Systemwide: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26205460&postcount=535
Use USB Soundcard for External Microphone: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26211646&postcount=549
GUI Theming and App Replacement: 10.25″ Android 9/10 HU theming and discussion
GUI/Boot Animation/factory_config.xml Import Issues: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26658717&postcount=1302
Low-Audio Bug Workaround: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26656524&postcount=1300
Bluetooth Pairing Guide (Non-Phone): https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=26713116#post26713116
Fix Graphic Issues After OTA Update: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=27892366&postcount=4175

SD 625 OTA Recovery Installation

For system issues, a factory reset is often the most effective solution. Note: This will erase all user data and installed apps.

Recovery Procedure (using OTA Update Package):

Rename OTA Package:
- SD625 Android 10: Rename to Ksw-Q-Userdebug_OS_v-ota-reset-data_factory.zip
- SD662 Android 11: Rename to Ksw-R-M600_OS_v-ota-only-reset-data_factory.zip
Rename USB Drive: Rename your USB flash drive to _kswota_.
Copy OTA Package: Copy the renamed OTA package to the USB drive.
Force Upgrade: Connect the USB drive to the Android unit and restart. The forced upgrade should begin automatically. (Alternatively, connect USB while HU is off, turn ignition to ACC, and wait up to 5 minutes).
Factory Config Import (Post-Recovery): After forced upgrade, create an “OEM” folder on your USB drive, place factory_config.xml inside, and plug the drive back in for automatic import after reboot.

Blind Recovery (If Unit Doesn’t Boot):

If the unit is unresponsive, attempt blind recovery: Connect the prepared USB drive, turn ignition to ACC (position 2), and wait for approximately 10 minutes.

Last Resort: FASTBOOT-Recovery Method:

For severely bricked units, the FASTBOOT-Recovery Method is a more technical option requiring hardware skills.

Unbricking Guide: HERE.

By understanding your Android 10 head unit and utilizing these resources, you can keep your car’s infotainment system running smoothly and enjoy the benefits of a modern, connected driving experience. While this guide focuses on technical aspects and updates, remember that further customization, such as car coding, can unlock even more potential from your vehicle, tailoring it precisely to your preferences.