Spotify’s foray into car integration hardware has come to an abrupt end. The Car Thing, a voice-controlled device designed to enhance your in-car listening experience, will cease operation entirely by December 9th, 2024.
Launched in early 2022, the Car Thing received mixed reviews. While some users appreciated its physical buttons and voice controls for Spotify playback, others found its design bulky and its functionality limited compared to existing smartphone integration options.
The official announcement from Spotify cites a shift in gears, focusing on “new, innovative ways to enhance your drives in the future.” This doesn’t offer much solace to users who invested in the Car Thing, which will essentially become a useless brick after December.
Adding insult to injury, Spotify advises users to factory reset their Car Thing devices and dispose of them responsibly. No refunds are being offered.
This decision has sparked frustration among Car Thing owners, who feel left in the lurch with a now-obsolete device. Social media is abuzz with complaints about the lack of transparency and the sudden end-of-life announcement.
While the Spotify Car Thing’s journey has been short-lived, it serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of in-car technology. With major car manufacturers integrating advanced infotainment systems and seamless smartphone connectivity, standalone hardware solutions may struggle to find a niche in the future.
