Spotify discontinued Car Thing, a device that allowed users to control Spotify through their car speakers using voice commands and preset buttons, on December 9th. Although the device has ceased functioning, Spotify has urged users to claim refunds by January 14th, provided they can supply proof of purchase.
The Car Thing, initially introduced as a niche gadget for Spotify Premium subscribers, aimed to improve in-car audio experiences. However, Spotify discontinued its sale earlier this year, citing limited consumer demand.
The announcement in May indicated that existing devices would be rendered inoperable by the end of 2024, and that time has now arrived. Affected users must act promptly to secure refunds, a process requiring direct communication with Spotify’s support team.
Spotify does not plan to introduce a replacement or a new version of Car Thing and does not offer trade-in options for the device.
“Car Thing is discontinued and no longer operational. Thank you for being on this journey with us, safe travels. For more information, visit our FAQ. Contact customer service by no later than January 14, 2025, to discuss your refund options.,” Spotify wrote.
The end of Car Thing has stirred mixed emotions within its community. On platforms like Reddit, fans lamented the shutdown, reminiscing about its simplicity, reports The Verge.
Meanwhile, critics see the device’s demise as a reminder of the fleeting lifecycle of many modern tech gadgets, with some branding it as yet another addition to the growing e-waste problem. Spotify has advised users to reset the devices to factory settings and dispose of them in compliance with local electronic waste regulations.
Many users also pleaded with Spotify to open-source Car Thing. Some people also discussed filing a class action lawsuit against the company to force it to do so.
For some, the Car Thing’s shutdown marks not the end but the beginning of creative experimentation. Hardware enthusiasts have discovered ways to hack the device, enabling it to run custom software independent of Spotify’s ecosystem. Though limited by its modest hardware specifications, these hacks have sparked innovation.
One notable project, Desk Thing, repurposes the Car Thing as a desk controller for PCs. While its ability to support robust operating systems like Android is constrained, the device’s sleek design and tactile controls offer potential for niche applications. Developers have explored using it as a smart interface for home automation systems or as a secondary input device for digital workstations.
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