Spotify recently announced that it will be discontinuing its Car Thing device and issuing refunds to customers who had purchased the product. The Car Thing was an audio hardware device that allowed users to connect their Spotify accounts to their vehicle’s audio system. It featured buttons, a touchscreen, and a control wheel, and could also be controlled using voice commands.
The decision to discontinue the Car Thing comes as part of Spotify’s efforts to streamline its product offerings and focus on developing new features and enhancements for its users. While the device was only launched in early 2022, Spotify has decided to end the experiment and shift its attention to other areas.
Customers who had purchased the Car Thing for $90 will be eligible for a refund. To receive a refund, customers need to contact Spotify’s customer support and provide proof of purchase, such as an email invoice. The company has already started issuing refunds as of May 24.
The announcement of the Car Thing’s discontinuation initially caused concern among customers, as there were reports suggesting that Spotify would not be reimbursing buyers. This led to a class-action lawsuit being filed in New York. However, Spotify clarified that it had already begun issuing refunds before the lawsuit was filed.
In terms of what to do with the Car Thing device, Spotify recommends that users reset it to factory settings and dispose of it according to local electronic waste guidelines. The company has also provided alternative ways for users to listen to music via Spotify in their cars, such as using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Overall, while the Car Thing experiment may not have lasted long, Spotify’s decision to discontinue the device and offer refunds shows its commitment to providing the best possible experience for its users. By focusing on developing new features and enhancements, Spotify aims to continue evolving and staying ahead in the highly competitive audio streaming market.