Indian consumer technology brand UltraProlink has rolled out DriveLink, a new 2-in-1 wireless car adapter aimed at simplifying everyday driving by removing the need for cables altogether. The idea is fairly straightforward, but also quite practical. DriveLink connects to a car’s factory-installed wired infotainment system and enables wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so drivers no longer have to plug in their phones every single time they get behind the wheel.
Priced at Rs 2,999, DriveLink is clearly positioned for car owners who want the convenience of wireless connectivity without replacing or modifying their existing infotainment unit. Navigation, music streaming, calls, and voice commands all remain accessible, just without the physical cable that often ends up tangled or forgotten at home.
Key Takeaways
- 2-in-1 Functionality: Converts existing wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems into fully wireless setups.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with iPhones running iOS 10 and above and Android smartphones with Android 11 and above.
- Seamless Integration: Retains original vehicle controls, including steering wheel buttons, touchscreen inputs, and built-in voice assistants.
- High-Speed Tech: Powered by a high-performance processor with 5.8 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth v5.4 for stable, low-latency performance.
- Plug-and-Play Setup: No mobile apps or complicated installation steps required for initial pairing.
- Compact Design: A thumb-drive-sized form factor that sits discreetly in the dashboard USB port.
Modernizing the Indian Driving Experience
A large number of cars sold in India today still rely on wired smartphone integration. In real-world use, that often translates into cables lying around the cabin or drivers repeatedly plugging and unplugging their phones for short trips. UltraProlink seems to be addressing this very specific, and very common, annoyance.
Founded by Pankaj Mirchandani, UltraProlink brings decades of experience in electronics distribution, and DriveLink reflects a focus on practical upgrades rather than radical changes. The adapter essentially acts as a bridge between the smartphone and the car’s head unit. Once paired, it connects automatically when the ignition is turned on, which means the phone can stay in a pocket or rest on a wireless charging pad.
It is important to note that DriveLink is built specifically for cars that already come with wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto from the factory. In that sense, it is not adding new functionality but enhancing what is already there. For many drivers, that small shift from wired to wireless could make daily commutes feel noticeably more convenient.
Technical Performance and Design
The DriveLink, officially listed as Model UM1221, keeps things visually simple. Its compact, minimalist design blends into the dashboard and does not interfere with the overall cabin aesthetics. This understated approach probably makes sense, since most users would rather forget the adapter is even there.
On the performance side, UltraProlink has equipped the device with 5.8 GHz Wi-Fi technology. Compared to the more common 2.4 GHz band, this offers wider bandwidth, which is particularly useful for handling high-resolution navigation graphics and audio streaming without interruptions. In everyday terms, this should translate to fewer lag issues and smoother performance.
Bluetooth v5.4 handles initial pairing and helps keep power consumption in check. For vehicles that only offer USB Type-C ports, UltraProlink includes a USB-A to Type-C converter in the box. This small inclusion removes the need for additional accessories and ensures compatibility across newer and older car models.
Availability and Warranty
UltraProlink has positioned DriveLink as a cost-effective alternative to upgrading an entire infotainment system, which can be both expensive and impractical. The adapter is currently available through the official UltraProlink website and Amazon India.
The brand offers a 6-month warranty covering manufacturing defects. Customer support is handled through UltraProlink’s existing retail and service network across India, which may offer some reassurance to buyers who prefer local after-sales support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will DriveLink work if my car does not have CarPlay?
A1: No. The DriveLink adapter only converts an existing wired system into a wireless one. Your car must already have factory-installed wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Q2: Does it require a separate app to work?
A2: No, it is a true plug-and-play device. You only need to pair your smartphone with DriveLink once using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. After that, the connection happens automatically.
Q3: Does the adapter lag while using navigation?
A3: The device uses 5.8 GHz Wi-Fi and a dedicated processor to minimize latency. In most cases, the experience is designed to feel very close to a wired connection, especially for maps and music.
Q4: Can multiple phones be paired with one DriveLink?
A4: Yes, the adapter supports both Android and iOS devices, which makes it suitable for shared family cars. Typically, it will connect to the last paired phone that is within range.
