**Spotify Faces Backlash Over Discontinuation of Car Thing**
Spotify’s decision to discontinue its in-car streaming device, Car Thing, has sparked criticism and backlash from users, particularly among Gen Z TikTok users. The device, which was launched in February 2022, will cease to work on December 9, 2024. Many users who purchased Car Thing express frustration, as they believe the device should not become obsolete so quickly, especially since it was marketed as a dedicated player for cars without built-in infotainment systems.
The discontent among users is fueled by the fact that Spotify previously claimed there was significant consumer demand for Car Thing. Spotify CEO Daniel Ek mentioned that over 2 million users had signed up on the Car Thing waitlist before its release. However, the lack of official sales figures suggests that Car Thing may have underperformed or did not justify further investment in the current economic climate.
**Users Seek Refunds and Complain to Spotify**
Car Thing users are primarily concerned with having their devices work or receiving a refund for their $90 purchase. Some users have attempted to directly complain to Spotify through direct messages on various platforms or by using the designated Spotify customer service emails shared on Reddit. Users report mixed responses from Spotify, with some receiving several months of a Premium subscription as compensation, while others were told they would not be reimbursed.
Spotify has recently implemented a refund process for Car Thing, but only with proof of purchase. This information was shared in a second email sent to Car Thing users after the backlash grew. While this may appease some users, many continue to plead with Spotify not to render their devices useless, expressing their love for Car Thing and highlighting the e-waste generated by discontinuing a fully functional product.
**Class Action Lawsuit and Additional Challenges**
The backlash and discontent over Car Thing’s discontinuation have escalated to a class action lawsuit filed against Spotify in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The lawsuit accuses Spotify of misleading consumers by selling them a device that would soon become obsolete and subsequently refusing to offer refunds. Spotify cannot comment on the lawsuit but has stated that Car Thing was an exploration to understand car listening habits and that users can find alternative ways to listen to Spotify in their cars.
These challenges come at a time when Spotify users are already upset about paying for additional features. Spotify recently introduced a paywall for access to lyrics, leading to further complaints and threats of quitting the service. Furthermore, Spotify raised its subscription rates last year, with another increase planned for 2024.
In conclusion, Spotify’s decision to discontinue Car Thing has garnered significant backlash from users, leading to complaints, refund requests, and even a class action lawsuit. The situation highlights the importance of considering consumer expectations and demands when introducing new products or features, especially in a fiercely competitive market.
