Introduction
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Spotify’s ambitious in-car streaming device, Spotify Car Thing, is nearing its end. The company has announced that the device will be decommissioned on Monday, December 9, 2024, rendering it non-functional. Here’s everything you need to know about the shutdown, why it’s happening, and whether owners can expect a refund.
What is Spotify Car Thing?
Launched in February 2022 after an initial limited rollout in April 2021, Spotify Car Thing was designed to make in-car music streaming seamless. The device allows drivers to control Spotify hands-free with voice commands or via its touchscreen interface. However, Car Thing struggled to find a foothold in the competitive tech market and was discontinued in July 2022.
Why is Spotify Car Thing Being Decommissioned?
Despite its innovative concept, Car Thing was deemed a commercial and critical failure, reportedly costing Spotify over $30 million (approximately £24 million). Production ceased in 2022, but existing devices continued to function until now. Spotify has now decided to completely deactivate all Car Thing devices by sending an update to disable them permanently on December 9, 2024.
Refunds for Car Thing Owners
Spotify has confirmed that refunds will be available for those who purchased Car Thing. On its official website, the company states:
Owners must contact Spotify customer service by the 14th day of January 2025, to discuss refund options. Refunds will likely be issued as Spotify Premium vouchers, though details may vary depending on the region and purchase terms.
A Short-Lived Legacy
Car Thing’s shutdown marks the end of an experiment that lasted just under three years from its public launch. Initially announced in May 2019, the device aimed to revolutionize in-car streaming but struggled to compete with smartphone integration systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What Should Spotify Car Thing Owners Do Now?
If you own a Car Thing, back up any Spotify-related data and prepare for its final update on December 9. Contact Spotify’s customer service team before the 14th day of January 2025 deadline to secure your refund.
While Car Thing’s journey was short-lived, Spotify remains focused on delivering innovative user experiences. As the company bids farewell its in-car device, customers can still look forward to updates and enhancements within the Spotify app.
Stay tuned for more news on Spotify’s evolving features and services!
When will Spotify Car Thing stop working?
Spotify Car Thing will stop working on December 9, 2024, following a decommissioning update from Spotify.
Why is Spotify Car Thing being decommissioned?
Spotify Car Thing is being decommissioned due to its commercial and critical failure, as it reportedly cost the company over $30 million.
Can Spotify Car Thing owners get a refund?
Yes, refunds will be offered in the form of Spotify Premium vouchers. Owners must contact customer service by January 14, 2025, to claim their refund.
What was Spotify Car Thing?
Spotify Car Thing was a device designed to make streaming music in cars easier, but it failed to compete with established smartphone integration systems.
