Spotify disables all Car Thing devices, sparking outrage among users
- Spotify officially discontinued the Car Thing device on December 9, 2024.
- The device was launched in February 2022 but faced low demand and supply chain challenges.
- Customers can request refunds until January 14, 2025, sparking potential backlash from users.
On December 9, 2024, Spotify officially ceased functionality of its Car Thing, an in-car streaming device that was intended to enhance music control for vehicles lacking advanced infotainment systems. Launched in February 2022, the device struggled to gain traction in the market due to limited consumer demand and facing ongoing supply chain issues. After less than a year in operation, Spotify announced that all units would be rendered non-operational. The discontinuation came alongside significant customer dissatisfaction, with many users expressing that they expected refunds for the device, which retailed at $90. Spotify has communicated that customers can seek refunds by contacting their service team, but only until January 14, 2025, emphasizing the need for a proof of purchase. To properly dispose of the Car Thing, users are encouraged to reset it to factory settings and to follow local electronic waste regulations. The company’s decision reflects broader trends in consumer electronics where products do not meet sales expectations. This incident serves as a cautionary tale for tech companies innovating in markets that may not be ready for such change, including the challenges of effectively penetrating an industry resistant to new technologies. Time will tell how Spotify will address the backlash and whether it will lead to adjustments in their approach to hardware development in the future.