How to keep carplay from popping up / How to turn off hotspot.

In this blog, we will be talking about how to keep Apple CarPlay / Android auto from automatically popping up.

Step 1: Disable Automatic CarPlay

The goal here is to stop the system from forcing the CarPlay interface open every time your phone connects.

1. Open the Phone Connection App: Tap the app you normally use for CarPlay (often labeled “Car Auto,” “Zlink,” or similar) to bring it to the foreground.

2. Access Settings: Tap the Settings icon (usually a gear or hexagon shape) located in the bottom right corner of the app screen.

3. Turn Off Background Connection: Look for the toggle labeled “Background Connection” and switch it to OFF.

4. Close the App: You can now close the app. It will no longer automatically pop up, effectively disconnecting CarPlay while keeping the phone paired.

Step 2: Connect to Wi-Fi / Hotspot

Now that CarPlay is disabled, you can connect the head unit to the internet using a mobile hotspot or vehicle Wi-Fi.

1. Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top of the screen to reveal the quick settings menu.

2. Open Internet Settings: Tap on the Internet button.

3. Enable Wi-Fi: Toggle the Wi-Fi switch to ON. (Note: This typically turns off the unit's own hotspot broadcasting).

4. Select Your Network: Wait for the list of networks to populate. Select your phone’s hotspot or your car's On Star Wi-Fi.

   • Tip: If your network doesn't appear immediately, tap “See All” to refresh the full list.

5. Verify Connection: Once connected, you can open a browser (like Chrome) to confirm the internet is working.

Step 3: Making Calls & Playing Music via Bluetooth

Since you are no longer using the CarPlay interface, you must use the unit's native Bluetooth app for calls and audio.

1. Go to the App Menu: Tap the Four Squares icon (bottom right or bottom left) to view all apps.

2. Open the Bluetooth App: Select the app simply labeled “Bluetooth” (avoid the app labeled “BT Music” for now, as the main Bluetooth app handles everything).

3. Navigate the Features:

   • Recent Calls: The default screen usually shows your recent call history.

   • Contacts: Tap the phone book icon to access your contact list.

   • Bluetooth Streaming: Tap the Music Note icon inside this app to stream music wirelessly from your phone without using the CarPlay interface.