What you need
- An Android phone with a clear forward-facing camera and enough free storage.
- A stable windscreen or dashboard mount that does not obstruct your view.
- A reliable USB car charger. Continuous video recording is demanding, so do not rely on battery power for a full journey.
- Dashoo, which adds loop recording, GPS and speed data, and protected incident clips.
How to set it up
- Install Dashoo and allow the camera and location permissions needed for recording.
- Mount the phone so the road is centred and the screen does not create a distraction.
- Connect it to power before you drive.
- Open Android battery settings and allow Dashoo to run without battery optimisation. The exact menu name varies by manufacturer.
- Choose your recording settings, then tap record before pulling away.
- Flag important footage immediately so it is protected from the loop.
Android settings worth checking
Battery optimisation
Set Dashoo to unrestricted or exempt it from battery optimisation where your Android version provides that option.
Background restrictions
Some manufacturers stop demanding apps aggressively. Test a complete drive before relying on the setup.
Continuous power
Use a charger that can supply the phone while the camera is recording, especially for high-resolution video.
Heat and placement
Keep the phone out of direct sunlight where possible and check it during early tests for excessive heat.
Who it is for
Dashoo is a good fit if you already have an Android phone, drive occasionally or regularly, and want to avoid buying another camera. A dedicated dashcam is usually better for permanent installation and parking surveillance while the car is unattended.
FAQ
Will Android stop Dashoo while I drive?
Android battery and background rules vary by device manufacturer. Allow Dashoo to run without battery optimisation and test your exact phone before relying on it.
Can I use an old Android phone?
Often yes, provided the camera is clear, the phone can run the app reliably, and it can stay powered. Check storage, battery condition and heat during a test drive.
Is an Android phone always better than a dashcam?
No. A dedicated dashcam is better for permanent installation and parking surveillance. Dashoo is strongest when you want to use hardware you already own.
Try the Android phone you already own
Start with Dashoo for free, then test the setup on a short drive.