I’ve read quite a few threads on this topic, and I think I’ve found a simple way to make this rear screen fully functional without any additional e-sim streaming fees for internet signal, and yet with a neat remote control too....at least for what I need. It’s clean, easy to use, and works perfectly with YouTube, Netflix, and other apps.
Here is list of items I purchased:
1. Google TV 4K Streamer (small box) with remote control
2. Short HDMI cable
3. Short USB-C to USB-C cable
4. Double-sided tape
Setup & connections:
1. Use the double-sided tape to mount the streamer device to the back of the screen, along with the short cables (clean setup). This keeps things neat with no hanging wires. The device is slim enough that it won’t interfere or touch with the top cover when the screen folds up. When folded down, double-face tape will keep things mounted at the back side of the TV in a neat way.
3. Connect the HDMI cable from the screen to the Google 4K Streamer de ice; and Use the screen’s rear USB-C port to power the Chromecast.
Done....
Operation mode:
1.Fold down the screen.
2. Use the Chromecast remote to power it on (power button on the remote control). The screen will automatically switch to the HDMI input then.
3. You’ll now see the Google TV UI interface, with YouTube, Netflix, and all other streaming apps.
4. For in-car use, let the Chromecast connect to your iPhone hotspot just once. After that, each time you get in the car, just toggle your hotspot on and it will auto-connect and Chrome device will have live connection (will always auto-connect to any saved/known hotspot). You can even automate your phone too for this so your hotspot turns on automatically whenever your phone connects to CarPlay (use iphone automations app as an option)
Things I really liked:- The Chromecast 4K remote is excellent. My 5-year-old can press the mic button, say “I want to watch so-and-so on YouTube,” and Google’s voice AI system assistant instantly opens YouTube, types the search automatically based on the words during the request, and shows the search results on youtube.
- Touchscreen functions for the car’s built-in features still work as normal for screen related functions. For the Google TV interface, you use the remote and the remote is actually easier to use since it’s designed for it.
- Audio plays through the car’s speakers with no issues.
Bonus items...Chromecast can also sync audio to a Bluetooth speaker. This means you could mount a small Bluetooth speaker near the rear headrests so the kids can listen to their content, while front passengers use the car’s sound system for music. Chrome device will always connect to that bluetooth speaker then. Can also use headphones.
This setup honestly works better than the factory system for me....clean install, easy to use, and super flexible. Will post photos later.