Spotify set to render all Car Thing devices defunct

Spotify’s venture into hardware hit a dead end with its Car Thing dashboard accessory, which ceased production less than a year post-launch. Now, two years on, the gadget is slated for complete shutdown. Owners are receiving notifications that it will cease to function come December 9th.

Regrettably, Spotify isn’t extending subscription credits or automatic refunds, nor is it making the device’s software open-source. Instead, it’s axing the project and advising users to dispose of Car Thing responsibly.

In a website FAQ, Spotify explained, “We’re discontinuing Car Thing as part of our ongoing efforts to streamline our product offerings. We understand it may be disappointing, but this decision allows us to focus on developing new features and enhancements that will ultimately provide a better experience to all Spotify users.”

Spotify advises users to perform a factory reset on the device and responsibly recycle its hardware. Additionally, the company clarifies that there are currently no intentions to develop a sequel. “As of now, there are no plans to release a replacement or new version of Car Thing,” the FAQ states.

Initially launched through an invite-only system in April 2021, Car Thing later opened to a public waitlist for purchase the same year. Priced at $90, the device became widely available in February 2022, only to cease production five months later.

While the Car Thing hardware boasted quality for Spotify’s inaugural attempt, it functioned more as a mobile phone remote for the app rather than an independent player. This restriction somewhat curtailed its appeal, yet it managed to carve out a niche community nonetheless.”